Types of Eczema and their prevention
May 4, 2009
If your skin has been dry, itchy, red and inflamed lately, you could be suffering from eczema, and it should be taken care of immediately.
Eczema is a generic term for skin irritation and inflammation. Some causes of eczema have been identified, while others remain undetermined. The condition can result from an allergic reaction to cloth, soap, laundry detergent, cosmetics, food or medication. Eczema can sometimes be a reaction to stress.
Eczema is usually found on the hands, arms, face and neck. Its symptoms include dry, itchy or scaly skin; redness, thickening or crustiness of the skin; or blistering and burning skin. There are several variations of the condition, including:
Atopic eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is found among individuals with genetically related allergies. Symptoms are displayed on the face, ears, neck, soles of the feet and elbows.
This is a frustrating type of eczema because it often recurs, causing the patient endless bouts of suffering. Babies are particularly prone to the condition until their immune systems mature, but adults and teenagers can also suffer from the condition.
Contact dermatitis is the result of skin contact with an allergic substance. It is further subdivided into two subtypes:
Allergic contact dermatitis refers to the skin being constantly irritated by soap, sweat, urine or saliva. Again, babies are very prone to this condition and it is referred to as diaper rash or a teething rash.
Irritant contact dermatitis refers to the skin’s reaction to body sprays, cosmetics, perfumes, creams, and other beauty products.
Varicose eczema results from poor blood circulation and usually occurs on the lower legs. This type of eczema should be treated immediately because it can turn into skin ulcers.
Hand eczema, which is similar to atopic eczema, is centralized on the hands, and is usually the result of an allergy to strong detergents. Janitors and laundry workers are prone to hand eczema.
Seborrhea, or seborrheic dermatitis, is a greasy rash on the face and nose.
Asteatotic eczema is most common among elderly men. Skin dehydration, malnutrition and overexposure to soap or detergent are among its causes.
Stasis dermatitis is another kind of eczema that is more prevalent among the elderly, because it stems from poor blood circulation in the lower legs. Symptoms of this form of eczema include darkened skin, itching, red bumps and sores.
Try the following techniques to avoid eczema:
Don’t rub or scratch the skin if it becomes red.
Don’t use excessive amounts of detergent in the laundry or soap in baths.
Avoid allergens, including food. Wear gloves if you’re likely to be exposed to products you are allergic to.
Avoid a cold, dry climate if you suffer from frequent eczema. Move somewhere warmer and more humid to help keep your skin hydrated.
Finally, if you suffer from frequent bouts of eczema, seek the advice of your doctor.




























