Dry Skin Conditions

Eczema

Eczema is a common term used to loosely identify the various forms of dry skin conditions, which results in skin irritation and inflammation. 

A dry skin condition refers to when the skin becomes dry, cracked and itchy, for various reasons. 

For this article, we will be focusing mainly on Atopic Eczema, which is the most common form of eczema. 

Different Forms of Eczema 

This depends on where the condition concentrates, or through its appearance. 

Some forms of eczema can include: 

• Contact Dermatitis – This type of eczema occurs when the body comes into contact with a certain substance. 

• Discoid Eczema – This eczema type, appears in oval, or circular shapes on the skin. 

• Varicose Eczema – The eczema is more concentrated on the lower legs, due to insufficient blood flow in the leg veins. 

• Seborrheic Eczema – Identified by the frequent appearances of red, scaly patches of skin, on the side of the nose, ears, eyebrows, and scalp. 

• Atopic Eczema – It can occur anywhere on the body, but is most frequently seen on the hands, inside the elbows, back of the knees, the scalp and face. 

• Dyshidrotic Eczema – Also known as pompholyx. This causes tiny blisters to appear on the palm of the hands. 

Atopic Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) 

This dry skin condition, is also the most common form of eczema. 

It is described as a dry skin condition, where the skin is dry, cracked and itchy. Some areas of dry skin, can feel sore to the touch. 

Eczema is more commonly found in children; said to develop in the early years of childhood. However, for some, eczema can develop later in life during adulthood. 

Eczema, as a whole, is a long-term condition; most will have it all their life. However, eczema can be improved, or even completely clear, in some individuals, once they are older. 

Symptoms of Eczema 

Atopic eczema, as stated before, is a skin condition, which causes the skin to become dry, cracked and itchy. The affected area may feel tender and sore. 

Each individual will experience eczema differently. 

Some may find eczema to be concentrated on only some parts of the body, whereas others may experience a widespread inflammation everywhere on their body. 

Inflammation can vary in colour on skin. They can be red on lighter skin, but brown, purple, or grey on darker skin. This also means that eczema can be difficult to spot on slightly darker skin. 

Though atopic eczema can appear anywhere on the body, it is more likely to be seen on the: 

• Hands 
• Inside the elbows 
• Back of the knee 
• The face 
• Scalp 

Individuals with atopic eczema can experience periods where symptoms become mild, or appear worse. When symptoms worsen, this is referred to as a flare-up. 

Seeking Medical Advice – Diagnosis 

If you are experiencing any symptoms, it is advised to talk to a doctor. 

The doctor will diagnose if you have Atopic Eczema, by looking at your skin and asking question like: 

• Is the rash itchy, and where does it appear? 

• When did you first notice the problem (the symptoms)? 

• Do the symptoms come and go, over time? 

• Does anyone in your family have eczema? 

• Do you have other medical conditions, such as asthma, or any allergies? 

• Have you recently changed your diet, or lifestyle? 

How Does A GP Diagnose Eczema? 

Generally, atopic eczema can be diagnosed if you have had the symptoms for up to 12 months, and if you have 3 of the following conditions: 

• Noticeable irritated red skin, where the skin creases. – E.g., the inside of your elbow, or the back of the knee. 

For babies 18 months and under, it is diagnosed by the cheeks, outside the elbows, and the front of the knees. 

• A history of skin irritation in the areas mentioned above – The constant appearance of rash-like symptoms in the same area. 

• Experiencing dry skin for the last 12 months 

• If you have a history of asthma, or hay fever – Children aged under 4, must have an immediate relative (e.g., a parent, brother, or sister), who has one of these conditions. 

• The symptoms first appeared before the age of 2. – This does not apply to children under age 4. 

Causes of Eczema 

Although the exact cause of eczema is unknown, there are numerous factors which can be considered. 

Atopic eczema can often occur in those suffering from allergies. The word ‘Atopic’ refers to a sensitivity to allergens. 

Eczema can be genetic, and can usually be found alongside conditions, such as asthma, and hay fever. 

Symptoms of atopic eczema can be aggravated by: 

• Soaps 
• Detergents 
• Stress 
• The Weather 

Food allergies can also aggravate symptoms, especially in children with severe eczema. 

Your doctor may ask for you to keep a food diary, to determine if specific foods can cause your symptoms to worsen. 

An allergy test may be helpful, if you suspect a food allergy is triggering symptoms, and/or causing flare-ups. 

Treatments for Eczema 

Treatments for eczema can relieve symptoms, and are likely to show signs of improvement overall after some time. 

Currently, eczema has no known cure. 

Eczema can have a significant impact on an individual’s everyday life; this is especially so, for those suffering from severe eczema.  While trying to cope with their condition, it can be both mentally and physically draining at times. 

There is also an increased risk of skin infections, considering the type of condition eczema is known as. 

Managing And Controlling Symptoms: 

There are numerous ways to manage and control eczema 

• Self-care techniques – Just by reducing scratching, and avoiding triggers, such as food allergies, you can limit symptoms and decrease chances of flare-ups. 

• Emollients (moisturising treatment plans) – Moisturisers that keep the skin hydrated on a daily basis. 

• Topical corticosteroids – Prescribed ointments and/or creams, used to reduce swelling, redness, and itching during flare-up situations. 

Mental Health and Eczema 

Eczema not only affects you physically, but can also have an effect on you psychologically. 

Young children may exhibit behavioural problems (e.g., hyperactivity) due to their condition, compared to ones without. They are also more likely to be more dependent on their parents. 

Bullying In School 

Students with this condition, may experience bullying and teasing from schoolmates. Any type of bullying faced, can be quite traumatic and difficult for anyone to deal with, and this includes children. 

The child can become quiet and withdrawn. 

To deal with the situation, you would need to notify your child’s teacher about the situation. It is also important to encourage your child to speak about how they are feeling, to show your support. 

The National Eczema Society can provide you with information on the local support groups, who have similar conditions. This would allow you to meet others who are in the same situation. 

Sleep Problems

Having trouble with sleep, is quite common for people with eczema. 

It can lead to a negative effect in mood and behaviour. Difficulty in concentration, is another symptom of sleep deprivation. 

For a child, these problems can cause them to fall behind in schoolwork. Your child’s condition can be taken into consideration, if you let their teacher know of their difficulties.

Severe eczema flare-ups can cause your child to miss school for a few days, and can also affect their studies.

Self-confidence 

Atopic eczema can lead to a loss of self-confidence in both adults and children. Children in particular may find it difficult to deal with their condition, leading to a poor self-image. 

A severe lack of confidence can cause social skills to lapse, or deteriorate. Giving your support and encouragement, will enable your child to develop their confidence, and develop a positive view of their appearance. 

If a child’s confidence is severely lacking, a trip to your GP is the best way forward. They will be able to refer your child to a professional, specialised in psychological support, to help with your child’s confidence.