Eczema Causes

Eczema is a disorder or disease of the skin when the skin becomes irritated or inflamed. Eczema can be acute or chronic depending on the cause of it. One should note that eczema is non-contagious, i.e. it does not spread from one person to the other. Eczema is more prominently observed in infants and children. Atopic dermatitis is one of the most common types of eczema and hence, eczema is also sometimes referred to as dermatitis, which is a misnomer. Let us have a look at eczema causes in detail.

Eczema Causes
Unfortunately the exact cause of eczema is unknown. However, doctors believe that there are certain factors that contribute in causing this medical condition. Firstly a defect in the functioning of the skin is the most important reason for causing eczema. Secondly, improper functioning of hormones, especially from the thyroid gland, result in abnormal blood circulation. It is believed that eczema occurs in the skin parts that do not receive proper blood supply. Thirdly, a weakened immune system is also considered as one of the significant eczema causes in children. It is probably due to this reason that eczema is seen commonly in children and infants. Atopic dermatitis is believed to be caused due to mutation or defect in a particular gene which may or may not be hereditary. Also, there are certain factors that are believed to trigger off eczema. They include: food products, soaps, detergents, jewelry, deodorants, clothing, dust, sand, dry air, sweat, stress, etc. Facial eczema causes are similar to those mentioned above. However, hand eczema causes may include allergy and infections.

Eczema Symptoms
The symptoms of eczema are clearly visible and hence, easy to identify. The following are the signs and symptoms of eczema.

• Dry and red skin
• Itchy and raw skin
• Inflamed areas may develop blisters
• Skin becomes scaly and thickened

Persistent scratching at the skin leads to infection. The blisters on the skin get filled with pus and hence, the skin becomes prone to bacterial infection. Therefore, it is essential to get it treated as early as possible. Diagnosis of eczema causes is very important in order to treat it. In most of the cases, doctors advise the patient to keep a diary of the food consumed, cosmetics used or clothes worn to find out the factor that triggers off eczema.

Eczema Treatment
There is no permanent eczema treatment or cure, however, there are certain treatment methods that help in alleviating the symptoms and discomfort. The doctors may prescribe certain eczema lotions, ointments and emollients to soothe the inflammation and itchiness of the skin. It is essential to keep the skin moist in order to avoid the skin from being itchy and scaly. The doctor may even prescribe a moisturizer lotion to be applied on semi-wet skin to prevent dryness. However, there are several self-care methods that help in treating the symptoms of eczema. Firstly, the person is advised not to scratch dry skin as it tends to aggravate the symptoms. Secondly, one should identify the trigger factors that flare up this condition and stay away from them. Also, it is essential to have a healthy and a nutritious diet to enhance the immune system. Once the immune system becomes stronger, it is easier to keep infectious diseases at bay.

This was brief information on eczema causes and treatment. One should remember that eczema is merely a non-dangerous skin condition that is similar to any allergic reaction. It is essential for parents to explain this to children, if the latter suffer from it at a young age.