PROGRAM
ECZEMA
Atopic Dermatitis
A Common Condition That Affects Quality of Life
Severe itching that flares up repeatedly especially at night along with red rashes and dry, cracked skin that you constantly have to cover up, or the need to apply topical medications over and over again without complete relief. These symptoms may be signs of eczema, a chronic skin condition that affects both skin health and confidence in daily life.
What is
PROGRAM ECZEMA
Medically known as Atopic Dermatitis, this condition is a common chronic inflammatory skin disorder. It is most frequently found in children, but it can also develop or persist into adulthood.
This disease is not contagious. It results from abnormalities in the skin barrier and the immune system, causing the skin to become highly sensitive to external triggers, lose moisture easily, and experience recurrent inflammation. As a result, it can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life.
The main causes of eczema include:
Atopic dermatitis is often caused by multiple contributing factors, which can be divided into two main groups.
Genetic Abnormalities and the Skin Barrier
- It is associated with a family history of allergies.
- A weakened skin barrier causes the skin to lose moisture easily.
- Allergens and pathogens can penetrate the skin more easily.
- This leads to chronic inflammation.
external stimuli
- Irritants such as harsh soaps, detergents, perfumes, or chemicals
- Weather conditions, such as very dry air or hot weather that causes excessive sweating
- Certain foods in some individuals, such as milk, eggs, and nuts
- Stress, which can trigger flare-ups of symptoms
Signs and symptoms of
Eczema
Severe itching
It is a key symptom that often becomes more severe at night and may lead to scratching until the skin becomes abraded or develops an infection.
Red rash and inflammation
The affected area of the skin may become red, swollen, and feel warm.
Dry, cracked, and flaky skin
The skin has lost a significant amount of moisture.
Clear fluid-filled blisters or weeping (oozing) skin
When the blister breaks, a scab may form afterward.
Common areas
Young child
Cheeks, outer elbows
Older children and adults
Inner elbows, behind the knees, neck, around the eyes
Guidelines for the Care and Treatment of Eczema
Although eczema is a chronic condition, its symptoms can be managed and you can live a normal life with proper care.
Increasing skin hydration
- Use a cream or lotion that is free from fragrance and irritants.
- Apply immediately after showering, and reapply as often as needed.
- Helps strengthen the skin’s protective barrier.
Avoiding triggers
- Avoid taking very hot showers.
- Use a gentle soap.
- Reduce stress and avoid scratching.
- If itching occurs, use a cold compress instead of scratching.
Medical treatment by a physician
- The use of topical or oral medications, especially corticosteroids, must be strictly supervised by a physician.
- They should not be purchased or used without medical guidance, as this may lead to side effects or potentially worsen the condition.