ECZEMA AWARENESS MONTH

 

DEFINITION : 

Eczemas are one of the most common dermatological conditions. Sometimes also referred to as dermatitis. They are a group of skin conditions associated with itching, inflammation and irritation over skin. They can affect any part of the body, usually common over exposed parts. They can occur at any age too. They can be acute, sub acute or chronic in nature.

Most common types of eczemas are 

Atopic Dermatitis

Hand Eczema

Discoid Eczema

Seborrhoeic Dermatitis

Contact Dermatitis 

Stasis Dermatitis

TRIGGERING FACTORS :

There are many triggering factors for eczema including both internal and external factors.

Internal factors include : genetic predisposition, allergy tendency, dry skin, hormonal imbalance, stress, extreme age groups, auto immunity, nutritional deficiencies, abnormal sugar levels etc.

External factors include : pollution, pollen, pet danders, dust, food colors, seasonal variation, harsh chemicals, irritants, allergens, hair dyes, friction, scratching, light exposure, occupation, home remedies, scrubbers etc

Different eczemas have few specific triggering factors like for example, contact dermatitis are triggered by allergens or hair dyes, Atopic dermatitis triggered by food colors, Stasis Dermatitis due to long standing etc.

Few Eczemas have specific features are like Atopic Dermatitis are common in Children, Asteatotic eczema are common in winter, Hand Eczemas are common in home makers etc

All Eczemas are usually associated with dryness of the skin, itching and red inflamed skin in acute stages. In chronic stages, they become thickened and hyperpigmented. Pruritus (itching) is the most common symptom and sometimes can be very severe. Proper diagnosis and timely treatment is required to avoid relapses and recurrences. If not, eczemas can become chronic and debilitating. 

Specific eczema have their own protocol of treatment and prevention. That's why, it is important  to get them checked as soon as possible by a dermatologist. 

PREVENTIVE MEASURES :

Few preventive measures and which should always be followed even after remission of disease included :

• Always moisturise daily, in all seasons as many times as possible to keep the skin hydrated. Use non fragrant  moisturisers.

• Apply moisturizer immediately after bath on a slightly wet surface for better absorption.

• Consult a dermatologist immediately without any delay.

• Rule out internal causes like auto immunity, abnormal sugar levels or nutritional deficiencies. 

• Be mindful of what you are applying and coming in contact with as they can lead to allergic reactions.

• Avoid triggering factors like dry skin, harsh chemicals, home remedies, food colors etc.

• Even though topical steroids are meant for treatment of eczemas, it is not advisable to use them without dermatologist’s consultation as they can lead to irreversible complications when used incorrectly. 

• Avoid vigorous scratching of the skin as it can lead to pigmentation and thickening.

• Follow your dermatologist's advice and instructions to avoid relapses.

                      

As October is Eczema Awareness month, it is important to know the facts and myths of eczemas. Spread the awareness and get yourself or your loved one checked immediately for any sort of eczema.