Eczema is a skin condition characterized by red, inflamed, and itchy skin. It happens mostly in children but can affect people at any age. Eczema is categorized into several types, including atopic eczema, dyshidrotic eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, statis dermatitis, nummular eczema, and contact dermatitis.
Atopic Eczema
Also known as atopic dermatitis, this skin condition is the most popular among the many types of eczema. Children are the most affected by this skin problem, although it can also affect adults. The condition is chronic, which means it may affect the person for a long time. In some instances, it may disappear completely, especially when children grow a bit older.
The usual symptoms of atopic eczema include dry, cracked, itchy, and sore skin. In some people, it may affect only certain areas of the skin. There are some, though, who experience inflammation all over their body. There are times when sufferers of this condition experience only less noticeable symptoms. There are certain occasions, though, when they may feel severe flare-ups.
While atopic dermatitis can affect the entire body, the most affected areas are the hands, back of the knees, and the insides of the elbows. In children, the most affected parts are the face and the scalp.
The causes of this skin condition are still unknown. Researchers are still doing some studies to determine why this skin problem occurs and what triggers the flare-ups. Paid clinical trials for dermatitis are even done to have a better understanding of this disease. People aged 18 years or older and struggling with atopic dermatitis can participate in such studies and get paid for their participation. They may even get free evaluations and study-related care for their eczema.
Dyshidrotic Eczema
This eczema is characterized by itchy blisters on the edges of the toes and fingers, soles of the feet, and palms of the hands. A common form of eczema, it often affects women more than men. Sufferers of this condition may experience a single flare-up, but it may also come and go for longer periods.
Triggers for this skin condition include nickel and some other metals. Stress can also play a part. Dyshidrotic eczema is associated with hay fever and other seasonal allergies. Flare-ups may also happen due to hot or humid weather.
Symptoms of dyshidrotic eczema include the formation of vesicles or painful, deep-seated blisters on the hands and feet. Sometimes, it might start with an itching or burning sensation before the vesicles form. During the healing process, the skin often dries up with a reddish color and then peels, leaving the skin dry and tender. Sometimes, it can lead to painful cracks and skin infections.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
This eczema primarily affects the scalp, causing it to have scaly patches, stubborn dandruff, and red skin. It can also affect areas of the body that are oily, such as the face, chest, and eyebrows. This skin condition’s symptoms include itchy, red skin and dandruff on the scalp, eyebrows, and even beard.
The causes of this skin condition are still unknown, but experts believe that it can be triggered by the immune system’s irregular response and a fungus found in the skin’s oil glands. Seborrheic dermatitis symptoms often show during cold, dry seasons and when people suffer from too much stress.
Statis Dermatitis
This eczema type is characterized by ulcers, inflammation, and itchy skin on the lower portion of the legs. A long-term condition often affects people suffering from chronic venous insufficiency, congestive heart failure, varicose veins, and deep vein thrombosis or DVT. People who are obese or have high blood pressure are also at risk. Statis dermatitis affects people at the age of 50 and is often common in women than in men.
Nummular Eczema
Also known as discoid eczema, this condition is chronic and is characterized by the formation of coin-shaped spots on the skin that are often itchy and may become dry and crusty. Clear fluid may also ooze from the skin. Nummular eczema affects men than women and often affects people who are aged 55 to 65. Nummular eczema is not contagious and may be treated with topical medicines and antihistamines.
Contact Dermatitis
This type of eczema is caused by chemicals or substances that directly contact the skin. These substances include soaps, fragrances, cosmetics, jewelry, and even plants that lead to an allergic reaction in the person. Symptoms of this condition include red skin rashes, tenderness, swelling, and severe itching.
It is important to seek a dermatologist’s help if you feel symptoms or if you discover any problem with your skin. The dermatologist can perform the necessary tests to evaluate the condition and see which type of dermatitis you have. The dermatologist can also help address the symptoms and find ways to cure them.
