Inflammation that often occurs to the outer layer of skin is called eczema. An outside irritant often causes the immune system to have a reaction and cause the problem, but the actual cause is unknown. A broad range of issues are actually covered under the use of the term that includes symptoms of skin that is dry, inflamed, red, itchy and irritated. There are several different forms that are likely to present. One term known as dermatitis is used in place of eczema when the condition is acute in nature.
For clarification purposes, this condition has been broken down by classification of types. Between ten and twenty percent of infants and nearly three percent of all adults and children located in the United States are affected by one form. The atopic form has been linked to asthma, is believed to be hereditary and is allergy related. Symptoms can include a rash that is extremely itchy and can be located in several areas including the head, scalp, inside of elbows, back of knees and butt.
Contact dermatitis has two different forms that may present. One form is allergic and the other is irritant. For some individuals it is possible to experience the onset of both at the same time due to an exposure. Almost seventy-five percent of cases in this particular category are related to occupational exposures.
A more serious form of eczema is xerotic and the skin becomes so dry that it is likely to crack open. This condition usually occurs during the winter months and will affect the trunk and limbs most. Dry skin and itching are also symptoms.
What most of us call dandruff is also known as seborrhea dermatitis. In the case of infants, it can be referred to as cradle cap. It does not usually result in a serious condition except when it occurs to an infant.
Therapies for the prevention of the condition at home should include keeping the skin moisturized with lotion to prevent the skin from becoming dry and cracking. Extra attention needs to be paid to the skin during the colder months of the year. Topical steroids can be an excellent treatment in most cases and corticosteroids are used. There is no particular cure, but the symptoms can be controlled. There are some side effects with the use of steroids of extended periods; weakening of the skin.
Antihistamines are excellent to assist with the symptoms of rash and itching and will often be suggested as treatment. If scratching has caused an issue of infection to present itself, then antibiotics may also need to be prescribed.
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