By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Eczema is a type of dermatitis that causes the skin to be dry and itchy. This condition reduces the skin barrier function, reducing the organ’s ability to retain moisture and protect the body from external elements. Eczema is a common problem in adults but is not contagious. Although painless, eczema results in unsightly appearances {Figure 1}, and one may develop sores after scratching the skin.

Eczema affects each person differently, and every individual diagnosed with this condition has different triggers. The primary causes of eczema include environmental elements, immune system reactions, and emotional imbalance. For example, environmental elements such as dry weather, clothing, detergents, allergens, air pollutants, and skin care products can cause eczema (Luschkova et al., 2021). In addition, an individual’s immune system may perceive small irritants as foreign invaders and activate the body’s defense mechanism, resulting in inflammation. Regarding emotional triggers, one’s mental health may result in flare-ups of eczema. For example, anxiety and depression can be common triggers in some individuals.

Concerning treatment, there is no cure for eczema; however, an individual may adopt some treatment approaches to manage the condition. One can avoid environmental eczema triggers like dry weather, soaps, and skincare products. In addition, a person may take oral antihistamines and corticosteroids to minimize inflammation and itching. Moreover, applying gentle moisturizers when experiencing dry skin can help manage eczema. Avoiding triggers, taking medications, and applying moisturizers can also help manage eczema symptoms.

To summarize, eczema is a type of dermatitis that makes the skin dry and itchy. The condition primarily results from triggers like environmental elements, immune system reactions, and emotional imbalance. Although there is no cure for eczema, an individual may adopt certain treatment plans to manage the condition. Avoiding triggers is the first-line treatment approach for eczema. Do you experience eczema? If so, what treatments worked for you?

References

Luschkova, D., Zeiser, K., Ludwig, A., & Traidl-Hoffmann, C. (2021). Atopic eczema is an environmental disease. Allergologie Select, 5, 244. https://doi.org/10.5414/ALX02258E.

National Eczema Association, (n.d). Atopic dermatitis. (Online image). https://nationaleczema.org/eczema/types-of-eczema/atopic-dermatitis/