Eczema

Eczema is a common skin problem that causes intense itching and red, sore, flaky skin. If you or your child has signs of eczema, talk to Nana Mireku, MD, FACAAI, FAAAAI, of Texas AllergyMD in McKinney, Texas. Dr. Mireku specializes in treating conditions like eczema, using preventive measures and a range of medications to suit your needs. To find out how you could benefit from Dr. Mireku’s expertise, call Texas AllergyMD today. You can also book your telehealth or in-person appointment online.

What is eczema?

Eczema is a chronic skin condition that often develops during childhood but can occur at any age. It causes a recurring rash that’s often unbearably itchy, especially at night. The rash could be widespread or restricted to a small area. It can come up anywhere, although skin creases in places like your knees and elbows are prone to eczema.

In addition to the intense itching, you might have one or more additional skin problems, such as:

• Cracks
• Puffiness
• Peeling
• Flaking
• Oozing
• Scaling
• Yellowish crusting
• Thickening
• Discoloration 

These symptoms vary in severity between patients and at different times.

It’s not unusual to experience an eczema flareup if you’re under stress or come in contact with triggers like perfumes and soaps or a hot, dry environment. Eczema isn’t contagious, so you can’t pass it to anyone else.

What causes eczema?

Eczema develops when something causes your immune system to overreact, resulting in tissue inflammation. Interaction between your genes and your environment is the most likely cause of an immune system condition like eczema.

There are seven different kinds of eczema:

Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis, the most common eczema, causes an oozing rash.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis causes dryness and itching from direct skin contact with an allergen like latex.

Stasis dermatitis

Stasis dermatitis most often affects the lower legs when you have problems with your blood circulation. It causes discoloration and itching.

Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis affects the sebaceous glands that produce the oils in your skin. It causes greasy, yellowish, swollen skin.

Nummular eczema

Nummular eczema causes coin-shaped spots on the skin after an injury such as a burn, insect bite, cut, or scrape.

Dyshidrotic eczema

Dyshidrotic eczema causes burning, painful blisters on your feet and hands.

How is eczema treated?

Eczema is incurable, although some children do grow out of it. Dr. Mireku at Texas AllergyMD prepares a treatment plan for you after determining what kind of eczema you have. Options include:

• Medical-grade moisturizing creams
• Prescription corticosteroid cream
• Phototherapy (light therapy)
• Immunosuppressants
• Injectable biologics
• Cryotherapy

Some people with eczema benefit from complementary treatments, such as bleach baths, medical-grade honey, acupuncture, and meditation.

Avoiding your eczema triggers is also important. Opt for fragrance-free skin care products and stay away from harsh washing powders and materials that irritate your skin.

For expert care of eczema symptoms, call Texas AllergyMD today or book an appointment online.