Eczema
Human skin responds to a wide variety of internal and external irritations by inflammation. The typical symptoms of eczema are flaking, weeping, blistering, and incrustation of the skin. Eczema may present in phases, the acute phase normally being characterized by itchy, inflamed, and reddened skin.
The treatment options for eczema are as varied as the symptoms. Depending on the severity and cause, a range of therapies may be considered, all of which are based on rigorous skin care during the symptom-free periods. We discuss the range of options with our patients to make sure we apply the right treatment for each individual problem.
The most common types of eczema are:
Atopic
eczema
<p>Atopic eczema (previously also referred to as neurodermatitis) is probably the most common form of eczema. The causes of atopic eczema are still not fully understood. The complexity of the disorder and its highly individual course basically suggest an interaction between genetic factors, immunological changes, and environmental influences. Thus, atopic eczema is generally due to an inherited predisposition, often occurring in family clusters.</p>
Allergic
contact eczema
This is an inflammatory irritation of the skin caused by coming into contact with a substance to which you have an allergic reaction. Common contact allergens include metals, particularly nickel (jewellery). But substances in cosmetic products may also initiate allergic contact eczema.
Toxic
contact eczema
This condition is triggered by chemical substances, or excessive mechanical stress on the skin, which damage the skin’s acidic protective barrier, and the now unprotected skin becomes inflamed. Care should be taken when handling cleaning agents and solvents, and attention paid to maintaining a good skin-care regimen in order to facilitate regeneration. Even water may have comparable damaging effects on the skin. Excessive hand washing, showering, or even too many baths, may eventually lead to eczema forming on the skin.