What is ECZEMA?
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a chronic skin disorder that causes an itchy, red, raised rash that may weep or ooze clear fluid.  Eczema is not contagious.
- Eczema is often worse during infancy and typically improves by early adulthood.

What are some causes of ECZEMA?
- Eczema is believed to be a type of allergic reaction.
- Eczema  is common in people with asthma, hay fever, and other allergies.
- Adults whose hands or feet are often exposed to irritating substances may often have eczema on those areas.

Some possible triggers of ECZEMA:
- Cold, dry weather
- Hot, humid weather, woolen clothing
- Animal dander, house dust, tobacco smoke, emotional stress and diet

Symptoms of ECZEMA
- Itching, dryness of the skin and a red, raised rash.
- Tiny blisters may appear which break and crust over (these lesions may be prone to infection).
- In children, eczema appears most often on the face, scalp, buttocks, thighs, and torso.
- In adults, eczema most commonly affects the neck, inside the elbows, and backs of the knees.

Treatment of ECZEMA
- Eczema is a chronic disease that cannot be cured.  Long intervals without skin eruptions may be possible with general dry skin care and medical treatment if necessary.
- Brief daily baths or showers with lukewarm water (not hot) should be taken and a mild soap should be used. (Specific products may be recommended by a physician or pharmacist.)
- Hot tubs and long, hot showers should be avoided.
- After bathing, the skin should be patted dry and a moisturizer applied.
- A moisturizer should be applied at least twice a day all year round.  Multiple daily applications may be necessary during periods of active disease.  Petroleum jelly should not be used. (Specific products may be recommended by a physician or pharmacist.)
- A cool-mist humidifier may be used in the bedroom.  The humidifier should be kept clean at all times.
- Clothing and bedding should be washed in a mild detergent.
- For children and infants, keep their nails trimmed short to minimize damage from scratching.
- Topical coal tar preparations, oral antihistamines and topical corticosteroids (short term) may all be used to treat the symptoms of the eczema rash without a prescription. (Specific products may be recommended by a physician or pharmacist.)
- Stronger medications may be prescribed and oral corticosteroids may be prescribed as a last resort.

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This information is of a general nature and may not apply to your special circumstances. If you have specific questions, please contact your physician or an appropriate health care professional.  These monographs are counseling aids for healthcare professionals only and are not to be used as a reference to diagnose or treat medical conditions.          Copyright 2005 RXinsider LTD