Whats Going Around Eczema

By Dr. Kyle Scarborough / Whats Going Around

Eczema, from the Greek for boil out is a term that encompasses a wide variety of skin conditions. Causes are equally complex. Skin allergies to food, detergents and even dust mites are suspected. It may be inherited, especially among allergy sufferers. Xerotic eczema flares up in the cold weather we are starting to experience.

Signs and symptoms: As the name implies, these skin conditions usually start as small, blister-like lesions that start to spread over the skin, causing red, dry, scaly patches on any part of the body. Itching and flaking are very common. Left untreated, the affected skin can become infected with staph.

What to do: There is no cure, but symptoms can usually be controlled with moisturizers and steroid creams. Persistent cases may require stronger prescription steroids. Those intolerant of steroids may benefit from other immunosuppressive agents, but side effects are more of an issue. Mild soaps and detergents for sensitive skin are widely available. Avoid wearing cloth that can irritate the skin.

Thought for the day: Dry, flaky, itchy skin could be eczema setting in.

Whats Going Around is contributed by family practice doctor Kyle Scarborough, M.D. You can reach him at drscarborough@familylifemedical.com.

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Whats Going Around Eczema