Eczema is a condition that makes patches of skin become dry, red, and itchy. Scratching the skin can make it bleed and become thick and scaly.
There are several types of eczema. The most common is atopic eczema, also sometimes called atopic dermatitis.
If something is atopic it means it's linked to an allergy. If you have an allergy your immune system (the parts of your body that fight infection) over-reacts to certain things that shouldn't usually cause you problems.
Common things that trigger allergic reactions in people with eczema are pollen, animal skin and fur, feathers, some soaps and detergents, stress, and their own sweat. But you might never know what causes your or your child’s symptoms.
What are the symptoms?
Eczema can make skin:
✅itchy
✅pink or red
✅dry and flaky
✅broken and bleeding
When eczema symptoms suddenly get worse your doctor might call this a flare-up.
Treatment
✅One of the best things you can do is to use plenty of moisturiser every day. This treatment is recommended for everyone with eczema, regardless of what other treatments they might need.
Moisturisers come as lotions, ointments, creams, and bath oils, also referred to as emollients. They work in two ways:
⭐First, they form a barrier between the skin and whatever is causing an allergic reaction.
⭐Second, they help keep the skin moist, which helps reduce pain and itching.
You can use as much moisturiser as you like and repeat as needed.
You might find it helps to apply a moisturiser after a bath or shower because it helps to 'lock' water into the skin. Using bath oil in the bath or shower beforehand can help this process. Ointments are usually used on very dry skin.
Some people find that moisturisers are the only treatment they need. But most people will need to use them alongside another treatment.
✅Corticosteroid creams and lotions are often used alongside moisturisers to help treat eczema and stop it flaring up. Corticosteroids (usually just called steroids) are powerful anti-inflammatories that help to reduce inflammation (swelling) and its effects.
✅Antibiotics, are prescribed if the skin is infected.
If the recommended self care options have been tried and further help is required, our clinicians will be able to discuss further options and if necessary prescribe the appropriate medication according to your condition. You will be required to fill in the e-consultation form and select the method of consultation.