ABOUT ECZEMA
What is eczema?
Understanding the condition that affects millions worldwide
Eczema can be incredibly challenging to live with, both physically and emotionally. The constant itch, discomfort, and flare-ups can feel overwhelming, especially when they disrupt your daily life or affect your loved ones.
So, what is eczema? It’s more than just a skin condition; it’s a journey that many people face. We understand how tough it can be to manage it, and we’re here to support you. On this page, we’ll explore what eczema is, why it happens, and share insights on how to better manage it, bringing you some relief along the way. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and with the right care and understanding, managing eczema can become a little easier.
Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema. Eczema is a broad term that healthcare professionals use to describe a general group of conditions that may cause skin to become red, dry, itchy and scaly, and in severe cases, may weep, bleed and crust over, causing the sufferer much discomfort. Sometimes the skin may become infected. The condition can also flare and subside for no apparent reason.
Although eczema affects all ages, it usually appears in early childhood (in babies between two-to-six months of age) and disappears around six years of age. In fact, more than half of all eczema sufferers show signs within their first 12 months of life and 20 per cent of people develop eczema before the age of five.
Most children grow out of the condition, but a small percentage may experience severe eczema into adulthood. The condition can not only affect the individual sufferer, but also their family and friends. Adult onset eczema is often very difficult to treat and may be caused by other factors such as medications.
What is eczema?
Recognising Eczema
Eczema can present itself in various ways, making it important to recognise the common signs and symptoms. Identifying eczema early can help you manage flare-ups and reduce discomfort. Here are some common symptoms:
- Red, inflamed skin that feels itchy or sore
- Dry, scaly patches that may crack or bleed
- Small, raised bumps that can leak fluid when scratched
- Thickened, rough, or leathery skin from chronic scratching
- Sensitive areas that flare up with triggers like heat, stress, or irritants
Keeping in mind that eczema presents differently in individuals, if you notice any of these signs, it’s important to seek advice from your healthcare professional.
What is eczema?
Types of Eczema
The most common form of eczema, it usually starts in childhood and can be long-lasting.
Symptoms: A rash often forms in the creases of the elbows or knees; skin in rash areas may turn lighter or darker or get thicker;small bumps may appear and leak fluid if scratched; babies often get the rash on their scalp and cheeks; the skin can get infected if scratched.
Causes: Genetic factors, dry skin, immune system problems, environmental triggers.
This form of eczema occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with an irritant or allergen, causing an inflammatory reaction.
Symptoms: Red, itchy, and sometimes painful rash; skin may become dry, cracked, and blistered; the affected area often corresponds to where the skin touched the irritant or allergen; swelling may occur in more severe cases.
Causes: Exposure to irritants like harsh chemicals, soaps, or detergents, or allergens such as nickel, fragrances, or certain plants.
This type of eczema causes small, itchy blisters, typically on the hands and feet, and can be triggered by stress, allergies, or moisture.
Symptoms: Tiny, fluid-filled blisters that appear on the fingers, palms, and soles of the feet; the skin may become scaly, cracked, and very itchy; blisters can be painful and may cause the skin to peel.
Causes: Stress, allergies (especially to metals like nickel), excessive sweating, and prolonged exposure to moisture.
A chronic skin condition that starts with an itch, leading to repeated scratching, which worsens the irritation and thickens the skin.
Symptoms: Intensely itchy patches of skin, often on the arms, legs, back of the neck, scalp, or genitals; affected areas become thick, leathery, and dry due to constant scratching; the itch tends to get worse when relaxed or during sleep.
Causes: Often triggered by stress, anxiety, or underlying skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. The cycle of itching and scratching perpetuates the condition.
Also known as nummular eczema, this type forms coin-shaped patches of irritated skin and is more common in adults.
Symptoms: Round or oval patches of red, inflamed skin that can be intensely itchy or swollen; patches may become dry, crusted, or ooze fluid; often appears on the arms, legs, hands, or torso.
Causes: Dry skin, skin injuries like insect bites or burns, and environmental triggers such as cold weather or harsh soaps. It can also be linked to existing conditions like atopic eczema.
A type of eczema that occurs due to poor circulation, usually in the lower legs, often affecting older adults.
Symptoms: Swollen legs and ankles, red or brown discolouration, itching, and scaling; skin may become thin, inflamed, and prone to ulcers; the affected areas can feel heavy or uncomfortable.
Causes: Poor blood circulation, usually from varicose veins or other vascular issues, leading to fluid build-up and pressure in the lower legs.
A common form of eczema that affects areas of the skin rich in oil-producing glands, such as the scalp, face, and chest.
Symptoms: Greasy, scaly patches of skin that are red and inflamed; flaky white or yellow scales, particularly on the scalp (often called dandruff); itching and soreness, especially in areas like the hairline, eyebrows, nose, and ears.
Causes: Overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus, excess oil production, hormonal changes, and environmental factors like cold weather or stress.
What is eczema?
Causes and Triggers
Eczema can be influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, making it important to understand what might cause or trigger your flare-ups. Knowing these triggers can help you prevent or manage symptoms more effectively.
- Genetic predisposition: Family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies can increase the likelihood of developing eczema
- Dry skin: Lack of moisture can weaken the skin barrier, leading to increased irritation
- Allergens: Pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and mould can trigger an allergic reaction, worsening eczem
- Irritants: Harsh soaps, detergents, fragrances, and certain fabrics can irritate the skin
- Stress: Emotional stress can cause flare-ups or make existing eczema worse
- Weather changes: Extremes in temperature, humidity, or dryness can aggravate symptoms
Understanding your personal triggers is essential for managing eczema and reducing the frequency of flare-ups. If you experience frequent reactions, consider keeping a diary of your environment, diet, and activities to help identify the causes.
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