It is commonly found that children are affected by it but can persist into adulthood or even develop later in life. The exact cause of eczema is not fully found, but it is likely to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. People who are diagnosed with eczema often have a compromised skin barrier, allowing irritants and allergens to penetrate more easily, triggering inflammation. Babies diagnosed with Eczema are also quite common.
Eczema is a condition in itself not communicable, meaning it cannot be spread from person to person through contact. However, it is likely that the skin will become infected as a result of scratching or rubbing, which can then potentially be transmitted to others. It is very important for individuals with eczema to practice good hygiene and avoid scratching to reduce the risk of infection.
Early Signs of Eczema:
Signs of eczema can differ depending on the individual and the severity of the condition. Common symptoms of eczema include redness, itching, dryness, and inflammation of the skin. Eczema can also cause oozing or crusting of the affected areas, as well as thickened or scaly patches of skin. In some cases, eczema can lead to complications such as skin infections.
Risk factors of Eczema:
Several factors increase the risk of developing eczema, including a family history of the condition, a family history of allergies or asthma, living in urban areas with higher pollution levels, and exposure to certain irritants or allergens. In addition, certain genetic mutations may also predispose individuals to eczema.
Medications that help to cure Eczema:
While there's no cure for eczema currently, various Eczema medications and treatments can help to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Topical corticosteroids, Oral or Topical Antibiotics, and Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors are some commonly prescribed medications to reduce inflammation and itching. Other medications for Eczema include: Light Therapy, Injectable Biologics, Oral Immunomodulators. and JAK Inhibitors. Other treatments include moisturizers to hydrate the skin and maintain its barrier function. In severe cases, oral corticosteroids or immunosuppressants may be prescribed.
Topical Medications
Topical medications are often the first approach to managing eczema symptoms. These include topical corticosteroids, which are applied directly to the affected areas to reduce inflammation and itching. They come in various strengths, from mild to potent, and the appropriate strength depends on the severity and location of the eczema. Another class of topical medications is calcineurin inhibitors, such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus. These are particularly useful for sensitive areas like the face and eyelids and for long-term management, as they do not carry the same risk of skin thinning as steroids. In addition to these medications, regular use of emollients and moisturizers is crucial to maintain skin hydration and barrier function, helping to prevent flare-ups.
Systemic Medications
For more severe cases of eczema that do not respond well to topical treatments, systemic medications may be required. Oral corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs that can quickly reduce severe symptoms, but they are typically used for short periods due to the risk of significant side effects, including osteoporosis, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Another option is oral immunomodulators, which help regulate the immune system to reduce eczema symptoms. These include drugs like methotrexate, cyclosporine, and mycophenolate mofetil. More recently, biologic medications such as dupilumab have been introduced. These are injectable medications that target specific pathways in the immune system, providing a targeted approach to controlling severe eczema. JAK inhibitors are another emerging class of oral medications that can reduce inflammation by interfering with the signaling pathways of certain immune cells. These systemic treatments are generally reserved for severe cases and are managed by specialists due to the need for regular monitoring for potential side effects.
Things to keep in mind after being diagnosed with Eczema:
Regularly moisturize your skin to prevent dryness, protect your skin from excessive sun exposure, use prescribed medications consistently, and use lukewarm water for bathing and handwashing. It is essential to know that a chronic Eczema condition requires long term treatment and management. One must identify and avoid triggers such as certain food or allergens, followed by a consistent skincare and medicated routine to maintain the health of the skin barrier.
In conclusion, managing and treating Eczema requires a shift in approach by personalizing as per the individual's specific symptoms and triggers. By working closely with a professional healthcare provider and having a sustainable and consistent skincare routine, many people with eczema can effectively manage their condition and improve their quality of life and feel happy.
