What is eczema?

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Eczema refers to a variety of skin conditions that produce similar symptoms like itching, blisters, rashes, and/or skin flaking.  The condition affects various parts of the body and usually starts off as an itchy spot.  Once the affected person scratches the itchy part, rashes and blisters may start to develop.  As the blisters dry off, flaking and dryness of the skin may develop.  The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis that typically runs in families.  This particular skin condition is said to be recurring because one may be affected during childhood and get the condition again by adulthood.  Other conditions that lead to eczema or eczema-like symptoms include contact dermatitis, scabies, and fungal skin infections among many others.

People with history of being allergic to many things are said to be prone to developing eczema.  Those with asthma for example are known to be prone to having this skin condition.  Experts are quick to point out though that eczema is not actually brought about by an allergic reaction. Symptoms like itching and rashes may flare up secondary to allergens but the condition starts not because of an allergy but rather to an undetermined cause.  Aside from having a genetic component, eczema may also be triggered by various factors like exposure to an allergen or immune-suppressing conditions like fever and flu.  Exposure to bacteria may also trigger eczema-like symptoms.

Avoidance of allergens and known triggers is the best way to battle eczema.  Wearing comfortable clothing and ample sun exposure is said to help the skin stay healthy and prevent possible inflammatory changes brought about by eczema. For those with rashes and severe itching, topical creams may be given by doctors. Anti-allergy medicines like anti-histamine drugs may also be prescribed for some patients.  For serious cases, drugs may also be given through injection other than the standard oral and topical route.

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