Eczema

If you have eczema, you know it’s much more than dry skin. The constant itching, redness, and irritation can make it difficult to sleep, concentrate, or simply feel comfortable in your own skin.

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is one of the most miserable skin conditions we treat. While there is no cure, today’s treatments can do an excellent job of controlling symptoms, reducing flare-ups, and helping you get back to living comfortably.

What Is Eczema?

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and irritated skin. It often begins in childhood but can develop at any age. Symptoms may come and go over time, with periods of improvement followed by flare-ups.

Although eczema is not contagious, it can be frustrating and uncomfortable without proper treatment.

What Causes Eczema?

Eczema develops when the skin’s natural protective barrier doesn’t work as well as it should. This allows moisture to escape while making the skin more sensitive to irritation and inflammation. Genetics often play a role, but environmental triggers can cause symptoms to flare.

Common triggers include:

  • Dry skin
  • Soaps and fragrances
  • Wool or rough fabrics
  • Environmental allergens
  • Stress
  • Weather changes
  • Frequent hand washing

Learning what triggers your eczema is often an important part of managing the condition.

Signs and Symptoms

Eczema symptoms vary from person to person but commonly include:

  • Dry, rough skin
  • Intense itching
  • Red or inflamed patches
  • Cracked or scaly skin
  • Thickened skin from repeated scratching
  • Small bumps that may ooze or crust over

The itching often leads to scratching, which further irritates the skin and can make symptoms worse.

Childhood Eczema

Eczema often begins during infancy or early childhood, causing dry, itchy patches that commonly appear on the cheeks, arms, legs, or behind the knees. While many children improve as they get older, some continue to experience eczema into adulthood.

Early treatment can help control symptoms, reduce flare-ups, and make your child more comfortable.

Treatment Options

No two people experience eczema the same way, so treatment should never be one size fits all. Our dermatologists work with you to identify your triggers, repair your skin barrier, relieve the itching, and reduce future flare-ups.

Treatment may include:

  • Prescription creams or ointments
  • Oral or injectable medications for more severe eczema
  • Advanced biologic and other systemic medications for moderate to severe eczema
  • Moisturizers to restore the skin barrier
  • Recommendations for gentle skin care products
  • Identifying and avoiding personal triggers
  • Long-term treatment plans to help prevent flare-ups

Our goal is not simply to treat today’s rash but to help keep your eczema under better control over time.

When Should You See a Dermatologist?

Many people try to manage eczema on their own, but it may be time to see a dermatologist if:

  • Moisturizers are no longer controlling your symptoms
  • Your skin is cracked, painful, or bleeding
  • The itching keeps you awake at night
  • You think your skin may be infected
  • Over-the-counter treatments are no longer helping
  • Your eczema keeps returning or is affecting your daily life

Schedule an Appointment

Living with eczema doesn’t have to mean living with constant itching and irritation. Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, our dermatologists can help identify the cause of your flare-ups and develop a treatment plan that’s right for you.

Call (402) 933-0800 or book an appointment online today.

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