Eczema is a condition faced by over 30 million Americans. While some only experience occasional or minor outbreaks, others have severe cases that can be life-altering without the appropriate treatments. In general, eczema can be identified by symptoms included redness, possibly intense itching, and skin that is dry and scaly. These patches can occur at specific places on the person’s body, be persistent or occasional, and be triggered by numerous environmental factors, including sweat and water. The most frequently encountered form of eczema is atopic dermatitis, which is eczema that occurs in response to an allergic response.

Introducing The Various Forms Of Eczema Sufferers Face

As mentioned above, there are various forms of eczema, and atopic dermatitis is just the most common form. This form of dermatitis most commonly presents symptoms in the creases of the knees and elbows, though it can appear anywhere. Those areas affected by this form of eczema can become darker, lighter, and can even thicken in response. In many cases, the small bumps found on the outbreak points will leak fluid and may appear in response to the area being scratched. Babies most often show this form of eczema on their cheeks and scalp. The other forms of eczema you may encounter are:

• Contact Dermatitis – This form of eczema occurs in response to environmental factors, including chemicals or other substances to which the recipient is sensitive. Metals, latex, and chemical substances have been known to cause outbreaks.
  • Symptoms – Skin that stings, burns, itches, or turns red and often presents with hives or blisters that can pop or ooze. Skin can become leathery as it thickens over time in some patients.
  • Causes – Detergents, jewelry, bleach, paint, poison ivy, solvents, tobacco, soaps, and perfumes, etc.
• Dyshidrotic Eczema – Often the result of allergies or exposure to chromium salt, cobalt, or nickel; this form can also be caused by stress or dampness on the hands or feet.
  • Symptoms – Fluid-filled blisters that itch or hurt and form on the soles, toes, fingers, and palms. The skin in the area may flake, crack, or scale.
  • Causes – Allergies, stress, dampness, certain chemical substances.
• Hand Eczema – In cases where the symptoms only appear on the hands, it is known as hand eczema. This condition commonly affects laundry workers, hairdressers, or chemical workers.
  • Symptoms – Red, dry, or itchy skin on your hands along with blisters or cracks.
  • Causes – Exposure to harsh chemicals on the hands, including hand sanitizers, cleaning chemicals, and more.

These are just three of the conditions that are classified under eczema. You can learn more by speaking to your dermatologist.

Managing Eczema and Its Symptoms

Every patient has different experiences with their eczema, and due to the high incident rate of allergen-sensitive cases, it’s essential to work closely with your specialist. Call today and schedule an appointment to get information about the specifics of your condition and a treatment plan that works for you.