What Causes Discoid Eczema
The cause of discoid eczema is unknown, although it is often accompanied by dry skin and is thought to be triggered by irritation of the skin.
Discoid eczema tends to affect adults and is rare in children. It is more common among men aged from 50 to 70 and women in their teens or twenties.
Some people with discoid eczema may also have other types of eczema, such as atopic eczema.
Read more about the causes of discoid eczema.
What Makes Atopic Eczema Flare
- Many factors in a persons environment can make AE worse these include heat, dust, woollen clothing, pets and irritants such as soaps, detergents and other chemicals.
- Being unwell, for example having a common cold cancause a flare-up.
- Infections with bacteria or viruses can worsen AE. Bacterial infection makes the affected skin yellow, crusty and inflamed, and may need specific treatment. An infection with the cold sore virus can cause a sudden painful widespread flare-up of AE, with weeping small sores.
- Dryness of the skin.
- In some, food allergens may rarely cause a flare up
- Stress
Skin: Condition: Infomation Antibiotics And Antiseptics
If your AE becomes wet, weepy and crusted, it may be infected and a course of antibiotics may be needed. Antiseptics, when applied to the skin alone or as part of a moisturising preparation, can be helpful in stopping the infection. Incorrect use of antiseptics can, however, irritate the skin and make AE worse. Antiseptics should not be used continuously because this can result in excessive drying of the skin.
Also Check: How To Make Eczema Bumps Go Away
Can A Flare Of Eczema Cause A Flare
But it can cause it to flare or make a flare worse. The most common triggers are substances that irritate the skin. For instance, in many people with eczema, wool or man-made fibers that come in contact with the skin can trigger a flare. Flares can also be triggered by certain conditions that have an effect on the immune system.
Skin: Condition: Infomation Moisturisers
These should be applied several times every day to help the outer layer of your skin function better as a barrier to your environment. The drier your skin, the more frequently you should apply a moisturiser. Many different ones are available, varying in their degree of greasiness, and it is important that you choose one you like to use. The best one to use is the greasiest one you are prepared to apply. Moisturisers containing an antiseptic may be useful if repeated infections are a problem.
Aqueous cream was originally developed as a soap substitute. It is often used as a moisturiser but can irritate the skin and make your AE worse. For this reason it is recommended that aqueous cream is not used as a moisturiser.
CAUTION: This leaflet mentions emollients . When paraffin-containing emollient products get in contact with dressings, clothing, bed linen or hair, there is a danger that a naked flame or cigarette smoking could cause these to catch fire. To reduce the fire risk, patients using paraffin-containing skincare or haircare products are advised to avoid naked flames completely, including smoking cigarettes and being near people who are smoking or using naked flames. It is also advisable to wash clothing and bed linen regularly, preferably daily.
Don’t Miss: Best Lotion To Use For Eczema
Southern Cross Medical Library
The purpose of the Southern Cross Medical Library is to provide information of a general nature to help you better understand certain medical conditions. Always seek specific medical advice for treatment appropriate to you. This information is not intended to relate specifically to insurance or healthcare services provided by Southern Cross. For more articles go to the Medical Library index page.
The Epidermis As The Itch Receptor Unit
The epidermis consists of keratinocyte cells, which are constantly reproducing then moving upward and being shed as dead skin cells. In addition to keratinocytes, the epidermis contains nerve receptors and chemical mediators, which also appear to be involved with the sensation of itch. One theory concerns nerve endings in the epidermis, as it is thought that an itch sensation is generated through nerve receptors adjacent to the keratinocyte cells. specific nerve receptors for itch have not yet been identified in the epidermis. However, scientific experiments have shown that if the epidermis is removed, itch is abolished. This proves that itch must generate from the epidermis. In addition, itch is uniquely restricted to the skin, mucous membranes and the cornea of the eye, where there are epidermal layers. No other body tissue experiences itch.
You May Like: White Spots On Skin Eczema
Metal On Your Jeans And Keys
As far as allergies go, nickel allergies are widespread. But nickel is hard to avoid its everywhere. A study published in the SeptemberOctober 2017 issue of the Brazilian Annals of Dermatology, for instance, found nickel was present in 100 percent of the keys the researchers tested. Even the button and metal snaps on your jeans can cause a reaction. The Mayo Clinic recommends ironing a patch onto your jeans to keep your skin from coming into direct contact with the metal.
RELATED: How Your Diet Choices Can Affect Eczema Flare-Ups
What Is It Like Living With Eczema
Many people live with eczema . As many as 15 million Americans may have this skin condition. Living with it can be challenging.
There may be times when your eczema disappears. This is known as a remission period. Other times you may have a flare-up, which is when it gets worse. The goal of treatment is to prevent such flare-ups, preventing your symptoms from getting worse. Be sure to avoid triggers, moisturize, take your medicine and do anything else your healthcare provider recommends.
Also Check: Best Socks For Foot Eczema
What Foods Should I Eat Or Avoid To Reduce My Risk Of Eczema
The connection between eczema and food allergies is unclear. If you have food allergies, then one of the reasons why you must avoid that food is that it may cause or worsen dermatitis. Examples of common allergies include peanuts, dairy, eggs, sugar, alcohol and gluten. Pay attention to what you eat. If your eczema flares up after you eat a certain food, then you might have an allergy to it.
If you dont have a food allergy then there are no foods, including chicken, that will cause or worsen your eczema.
Skin: Condition: Infomation Chinese Herbal Treatment
This is a complementary therapy that has been reported to benefit some patients but doctors do not generally recommend these. Potentially serious side effects, such as inflammation of the liver, have been known to occur with Chinese herbal treatment.
Many people with eczema benefit from a psychological approach to their condition in addition to their use of creams, ointments etc.
Recommended Reading: What Can You Put On Eczema On Eyelids
How To Use Topical Corticosteroids
When using corticosteroids, apply the treatment accurately to the affected areas. Unless instructed otherwise by your doctor, you should follow directions on the patient information leaflet that comes with the corticosteroid.
Do not apply the corticosteroid more than twice a day. Most people will only have to apply it once a day.
To apply the topical corticosteroid, take the following steps:
- apply your emollient first and ideally wait around 30 minutes before applying the topical corticosteroid, until the emollient has soaked into your skin
- apply a good amount of the topical corticosteroid to the affected area
- use the topical corticosteroid until the inflammation has cleared up, unless otherwise advised by your GP
Speak to your prescriber if you have been using a topical corticosteroid and your symptoms have not improved.
How I Overcame Severe Eczema When Doctors Said There Was No Cure
- Pin
As a kid, I suffered from severe eczema for most of my life. It was a really tough battle especially if you know anyone else who suffers from it. I was seeing doctors on a weekly basis and getting steroids, cortisone creams, and medications most of which dont work on a large population of eczema sufferers.
This post contains some graphic images,so only continue scrolling down if you feel you are able to handle it.
that I experienced from birth, dating, marriage, and giving birth. I flared up very severely after giving birth, but thankfully Ive cleared up significantly. You can continue to listen to my full podcast here.)
As an individual who was covered almost 100% from head to toe with severe eczema, my doctor said mine was one of the worst they had ever seen. I was unable to find many online resources or conventional treatments that helped, which led me to discover how nutrition could change my life. Since then, I have become a Registered Holistic Nutritionist to help other people overcome eczema by using food natures greatest medicine to bring healing to the body.
I hope to share my experiences to help you get better. I have since learned that there are natural remedies for severe eczema and there is always a way to help it get better.
Recommended Reading: Is Beer Bad For Eczema
Skin: Condition: Infomation Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors
Calcineurin inhibitors, tacrolimus ointment and pimecrolimus cream, may be used when AE is not responding to topical steroids, or in skin sites which are more susceptible to the side effects of steroids, such as the face, eyelids and armpits and groin. The most common side effect is stinging on application but this normally disappears after a few applications. They are associated with an increased risk of skin infections and should not be applied to infected skin.
A maintenance regimen using intermittent calcineurin inhibitors is useful in patients who have frequent flare-ups of AE.
How To Prevent Flares
While there is no medication currently available that cures eczema, there are a few ways to prevent and treat flares.
First, knowing your personal eczema triggers can help you make informed choices around diet and activities. Keeping a journal may help you connect certain foods, weather, products, or activities to flares.
Moisturizing your skin as much as possible can also help, as can bathing after exercising or other high-energy activities.
If your eczema is more severe, your doctor may have prescribed topical and/or immunosuppressant medications to reduce itching. Using these medicines as prescribed can help prevent eczema flares.
Don’t Miss: What To Use For Eczema Around Eyes
Skin: Condition: Infomation Topical Steroid Creams Or Ointments
These will usually improve the redness and itching of AE when it is active. They come in different strengths and your doctor will advise you on which type needs to be used, where and for how long. Use a fingertip unit to cover an area the size of the front and back of your hand.
Used appropriately topical steroids are very effective and safe to use. Used inappropriately , topical steroids may cause side effects, including thinning of the skin. However insufficient treatment with topical steroids is generally considered by doctors to be more of a problem than overuse.
Weaker topical steroids are usually prescribed for use on the face, breasts, genitals, eyelids and armpits. This is because the skin is much thinner in these sites. Stronger steroids can be used at other sites, especially thicker areas such as hands and feet.
It is recommended that you do not purchase natural herbal creams, as they can cause irritation and allergic reactions. Some so-called natural creams have been shown to contain potent steroids. Other herbal creams have been shown to contain high levels of harmful bacteria including MRSA which may cause skin infections and septicaemia.
How Is Eczema Treated What Medications Are Used
Treating eczema can be difficult if the cause is something you cant control, like genetics. Fortunately, you may have some influence over your environment and stress levels. Do your best to figure out what triggers or worsens your eczema, and then avoid it. The goal is to reduce itching and discomfort and prevent infection and additional flare-ups.
Consider these treatment tips:
If your child has skin problems, such as eczema, you can:
- Avoid long, hot baths, which can dry the skin. Use lukewarm water instead and give your child sponge baths.
- Apply lotion immediately after bathing while the skin is still moist. This will help trap moisture in the skin.
- Keep the room temperature as regular as possible. Changes in room temperature and humidity can dry the skin.
- Keep your child dressed in cotton. Wool, silk and manmade fabrics such as polyester can irritate the skin.
- Use mild laundry soap and make sure that clothes are well rinsed.
- Watch for skin infections. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice an infection.
- Help them avoid rubbing or scratching the rash.
- Use moisturizers several times daily. In infants with eczema, moisturizing on a regular basis is extremely helpful.
Read Also: Eczema In The Vulvar Area
How To Treat Eczema
1. Emollients
Emollients are medical creams and lotions that can start to heal the open, dry skin from eczema. A true emollient is moisturizing and never contains any fragrances or dyes. Another way you can control that constant itch is with oral medications. Taking an antihistamine, such as Benadryl, can bring down the itching and make you much more comfortable as your skin heals. Because these types of medications can cause fatigue, try taking it at bedtime to see how it affects you.
2. Prescription Eczema Creams
If your eczema continues to worsen and the emollient just isnt cutting it, try an over-the-counter-cream that contains hydrocortisone. Using cortisone for eczema will moisturize your skin while relieving the incessant itching. Failing that, your doctor will most likely prescribe an ointment that contains a steroid. These medications can quickly clear up the itching and inflammation, but you do need to be careful with them. Using them for too long can lead to skin discoloration or thinning. Make sure to wash your hands after applying it and always follow the directions.
3. Phototherapy
Light therapy is an effective way to treat eczema when lotions and steroids alone cant control it. Exposing your skin to natural sunlight is the first step. If you live in a cold climate, natural sunlight may not be an option. Your doctor may then recommend phototherapy, a treatment where light is exposed to areas of the skin affected by eczema.
Skin Care For Facial Eczema
Moisturize. The best way to keep your skin from drying out is with thick creams and ointments , not with thinner lotions. The best time to do this is right after you wash your face. If ointments are too greasy for your face, try using them only at night.
Clean gently. Soap can irritate your skin, but washing with water alone may not be enough, especially if your face is oily. Use a gentle non-soap cleanser or a medical emollient instead. Pat dry with a soft towel.
Watch the temperature. Use only cool — not hot — water on your face, and for as little time as possible.
Skip makeup.Donât use cosmetics on irritated skin.
Don’t Miss: Best Shampoo For Eczema Child
Can Atopic Eczema Be Prevented
Regular use of medical moisturisers can help restore the skins barrier in children who might otherwise develop AE.
Although exclusive breast-feeding has been advocated for the prevention of eczema in susceptible infants, there is no evidence that this is effective. There is also no definite evidence that organic dairy products help to reduce the risk of eczema, or that eating fish oil during pregnancy helps to prevent eczema in childhood.
For some patients who flare-up frequently, intermittent use of a topical steroid or calcineurin inhibitors may reduce the number of flare-ups.
Why Have I Suddenly Got Eczema
Eczema can suddenly appear for the first time in later life for unknown reasons. Skin has a tendency to become drier as we get older causing itching, roughness, and scaling. Occasionally, the emergence of eczema in adulthood can be attributed to a stressful lifestyle.
It is unknown as to what exactly causes eczema. Though for most types of eczema, skin experts believe that it involves a combination of genes and triggers. Studies have shown that children are more likely to develop eczema if someone in their family has it, such as a parent or a sibling.
People who develop eczema may also have asthma and other types of allergies, such as hay fever. Asthma, eczema, and hay fever are referred to as “atopic” conditions, which affect people who are excessively sensitive to allergens in the environment.
When you get eczema after your 18th birthday, your dermatologist may refer to it as an adult-onset atopic dermatitis. You would receive this diagnosis if you never had eczema before. A peak time for developing adult-onset atopic dermatitis is when people reach the age of 50.
Dry Skin and Eczema
When your skin becomes excessively dry, it can feel rough, scaly, and tight. It also increases the chances of having an eczema flare. Additionally, people tend to scratch their dry skin, causing more skin irritation.
Keeping your skin moisturized, especially during winter or dry seasons, is one way to combat dry skin and eczema.
Irritants and Eczema
Stress and Eczema
Diagnosing Eczema
Read Also: Severe Eczema On Baby Face
You Asked: Can Stress Cause Eczema In Adults
Emotional stress doesnt cause eczema, but it can provoke symptoms. The body releases a hormone called cortisol when under stress. In large doses, such as when dealing with chronic and ongoing stress, cortisol increases inflammation throughout the body. This can lead to skin inflammation and an eczema flare.
If You Are Uncertain What To Do Or What Level Of Risk Applies You Should Discuss The Matter With Your Doctor Health Care Workers With Extensive Active Eczema Should Seek Professional Guidance On Possible Re
It is not the policy of the Eczema Association of Australasia Inc to recommend or endorse any product or treatment.It is part of the role of the Association to provide information on a wide range of products and treatments to keep those involved with eczema as fully informed as possible as to all options available. For medical advice, consult your health professional.
Read Also: Home Remedies For Infected Eczema