October 2022

Eczema is a common chronic or recurrent inflammatory skin disease and affects 15-20% of children and 1-3% of adults worldwide. Although common, it is often misunderstood. In this 2-part article, we will give you all the information you need to understand and treat eczema a little better. In Part 1 we will discuss: In Part 2 we will discuss: Part 1 What is eczema? Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is one of several types of dermatitis. Other common types are contact dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff). Dermatitis isn’t contagious, but infections are possible. It often begins before age 5 and may continue into the teen and adult years. For some people, it flares and then clears up for a time, even for several years. In some people, atopic dermatitis is related to a gene variation that affects the skin’s ability to provide protection. With a weak barrier function, the skin is less able to retain moisture and protect against bacteria, irritants, allergens and environmental factors — such as tobacco smoke. In other people, atopic dermatitis is caused by too much of the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus on the skin. This displaces helpful bacteria and disrupts the skin’s barrier function. A weak skin barrier function might also trigger an immune system response that causes the inflamed skin and other symptoms. General symptoms Atopic dermatitis (eczema) symptoms can appear anywhere on the body and vary widely from person to person. They may include: Complications Complications of atopic dermatitis (eczema) may include: Asthma and hay fever. Many people with atopic dermatitis develop asthma and hay fever. This can happen before or after developing atopic dermatitis. Food allergies. People with atopic dermatitis often develop food allergies. One of the main symptoms of this condition is hives (urticaria). Chronic itchy, scaly skin. A skin condition called neurodermatitis (lichen simplex chronicus) starts with a patch of itchy skin. You scratch the area, which provides only temporary relief. Scratching actually makes the skin itchier because it activates the nerve fibers in your skin. Over time, you may scratch out of habit. This condition can cause the affected skin to become discolored, thick and leathery. Patches of skin that’s darker or lighter than the surrounding area. This complication after the rash has healed is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation. It’s more common in people with brown or Black skin. It might take several months for the discoloration to fade. Skin infections. Repeated scratching that breaks the skin can cause open sores and cracks. These increase the risk of infection from bacteria and viruses. These skin infections can spread and become life-threatening. Irritant hand dermatitis. This especially affects people whose hands are often wet and exposed to harsh soaps, detergents and disinfectant at work. Allergic contact dermatitis. This condition is common in people with atopic dermatitis. Allergic contact dermatitis is an itchy rash caused by touching substances you’re allergic to. The color of the rash varies depending on your skin color. Sleep problems. The itchiness of atopic dermatitis can interfere with sleep. Mental health conditions. Atopic dermatitis is associated with depression and anxiety. This may be related to the constant itching and sleep problems common among people with atopic dermatitis. References: