Eczema Symptoms and Causes
posted: Sep. 19, 2022.
How your dermatologists in Roswell, Alpharetta, Cumming, and Sandy Springs, GA, can help with eczema
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common skin problem. Fortunately, your dermatologist knows how to treat the condition. If you think you might have eczema, your dermatologist can help you enjoy clear skin.
The dermatologists of Atlanta Center For Dermatologic Diseases provide a wide range of medical and cosmetic dermatology services, including treatment of eczema. They have several convenient office locations in Roswell, Alpharetta, Cumming, and Sandy Springs, GA.
Eczema can be caused by several different factors, including:
- Exposure to an allergen
- Chronically dry skin
- Immune system problems
- Chemical exposure and other environmental factors
- Genetic factors and a family history of eczema
Eczema has several signs and symptoms, for you to watch for, including:
- Reddish-brown patches on your scalp, face, elbows, chest, knees, ankles, and feet
- Frequent, severe itching which can worsen at night
- Swollen, inflamed, red, raw areas of skin
- Dry, cracked, or scaly patches of skin in different areas of your body
- Bumps on your skin which drain fluid and develop a crust later
Eczema affects people of all ages, but it is more common in children, especially those under 5 years old. It can flare up or develop into a chronic skin condition.
There are a few simple home remedies to get relief from mild occasional eczema. You can try:
- Taking over-the-counter oral or topical antihistamine medications
- Applying calamine lotion to soothe irritated, itching skin
- Applying moisturizer after you take a shower
- Placing cool, wet bandages or dressings on affected areas
- Taking daily oatmeal or baking soda baths
- Wearing cool, loose, breathable clothing
Moderate to severe cases of eczema need to be seen by your dermatologist, who may recommend:
- Prescription-strength topical and oral antihistamine medications
- Antibiotic medications
- Injectable or oral anti-inflammatory medications
- Corticosteroid dressings
- Light therapy
To learn more about the causes, signs, symptoms, and treatment of eczema, call the dermatologists of Atlanta Center For Dermatologic Diseases. You can reach them in Roswell, GA, at (770) 751-1133. Sandy Springs, GA, at (404) 252-4333, Alpharetta, GA, at (770) 664-5225, or Cumming, GA, at (770) 844-1902. Call now.