Eczema

Eczema

Eczema is a chronic that affects the skin. It is not contagious; it cannot be passed from one person to another. With eczema, the skin becomes extremely itchy. Scratching often leads to redness, swelling, cracking, "weeping" clear fluid, and finally, crusting and scaling. There are typically periods of flares and remissions in most people. Although Eczema can occur at any age, it most often begins in childhood. In many children with eczema, the skin disease improves or disappears altogether as they grow older, although their skin often remains dry and easily irritated. In others, eczema continues to be a significant problem in adulthood. While the cause of eczema is unknown, it is thought to be influenced by both genetic and environmental factors.

Eczema is actually a general term for several types of disorder which cause irritation and inflammation of the skin. The most common of the many types of eczema is Atopic dermatitis. Other types include: Allergic contact eczema (dermatitis), Dyshidrotic eczema, Neurodermatitis, Nummular eczema, Seborrheic eczema, and Stasis dermatitis.

Treatment of Eczema

There are two goals in the treatment of eczema. The first is to prevent flares of the disease, which can be accomplished by using medications known as immuno-modulators and reducing skin irritants. The second treatment goal is to protect the skin during flares to reduce the discomfort and problems associated with scratching. This is often accomplished by using cortisone creams and other lotions to protect the skin.

MEDLINEplus - Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Provides an overview of symptoms and treatments, images, related news stories, and a question and answer forum.

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National Eczema Association for Science and Education

NEASE works to improve the health and the quality of life of persons living with atopic dermatitis/eczema, including those who have the disease as well as their loved ones.

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The National Eczema Society.

Free information for eczema and dermatitis sufferers.

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NIH: Atopic Dermatitis

This booklet is for people who have atopic dermatitis (often called eczema), parents and caregivers of children with atopic dermatitis.

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Study: Terrorism Response Plans May Fail

Finds they don't consider public attitudes, fears

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Handout on Health: Atopic Dermatitis

Chronic or repeatedly occurring symptoms ... Personal or family history of atopic disorders (eczema, hay fever, asthma) Some Minor Features...

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Natural Plant Oil Does Not Improve Eczema

The authors of a 'British Medical Journal' study suggest that GLA is unlikely to offer any useful benefit in treatment of atopic eczema.

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Atopic Dermatitis (Atopic Eczema) -Medfacts-National Jewish Medical...

Atopic Dermattis (Atopic Eczema) Med Fact from National Jewish Medical and Research Center #1 Respiratory Hospital in America...

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Asthma: Complementary and Alternative Therapies

Asthma is a chronic lung disease that affects at least 24 million people in the United States. Symptoms of asthma include episodes of wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and increased ...

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Some Eczema Treatments Better Than Others

Study finds tacrolimus ointment more effective than pimecrolimus cream

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The American Academy of Dermatology

The American Academy of Dermatology is committed to advancing the science of medicine and surgery related to promoting a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails.

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Eczema Treatment Guide

Eczema or atopic dermatitis treatments for children, including the use of lubricants, steroid creams, bathing and information about preventing flare ups.

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