Medical Dermatology
Eczema in Garden City, Long Island
WHAT IS ECZEMA?
Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a condition that makes your skin red and itchy. It is chronic in nature and flares periodically. It is mostly characterized by dry scaly skin, redness and itching.
WHAT CAUSES ECZEMA?
Causes of AD happen when your skin’s natural barrier against the elements is weakened. Genetic predisposition, triggers in the environment and dry skin are some common causes of eczema. Eczema affects about one in every five people at some time in their lives. It results from a variety of different causes and has various patterns.
- Acute eczema (or dermatitis) refers to a rapidly evolving red rash which may be blistered and swollen.
- Chronic eczema (or dermatitis) refers to a longstanding irritable area. It is often darker than the surrounding skin, thickened (lichenified) and much scratched.
- An in-between state is known as subacute eczema. Psychological stresses can provoke or aggravate dermatitis, presumably by suppressing normal immune mechanisms.
HOW SHOULD YOU TREAT ECZEMA?
Dermatitis is often a long-term problem. When you notice your skin getting dry, moisturise your skin again and carefully avoid the use of soap. If the itchy rash returns, use both the moisturizer and the steroid cream or ointment.
