Eczema is a chronic and complex skin condition which causes the skin to become dry, red, inflamed and intensely itchy. It affects one in three New Zealanders at some stage in their lives.
The underlying cause of eczema is largely unknown however it is believed that it may develop from a combination of genetics (runs in the family) and environmental factors (external triggers).
The most common form of eczema is also known as atopic eczema or atopic dermatitis (AD). It often develops in infancy and there is usually a family history of eczema, hay fever (allergic rhinitis), and asthma. Most children outgrow AD, but a small percentage can experience severe eczema into adulthood or relapse as adults which can be difficult to treat.
People with eczema have a dysfunctional skin barrier which means that the skin is less able to retain moisture and protect against bacteria, irritants, and allergens.
The most common signs and symptoms of eczema are:
- Dry, scaly patches of skin that appear on the face, neck, trunk and particularly flexures of the elbows and knees
- Mild to intense itching
- Thickening and discoloration of the skin
- Open, crusted, or weeping sores
- Pain and sensitivity
Triggers for eczema can be:
- Environmental like climate - extreme temperatures (heat and cold) and humidity.
- House dust mites, dander, moulds, grasses
- Chemicals and tobacco smoke
- Frequent showering, soaps or detergents
- Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections
- Stress
- Dry skin
- Dairy and wheat products, citrus, eggs, nuts, seafood and sugar
- Chemical food additives, preservatives, and colourings
While these symptoms are common in eczema one size does not fit all. There are several other types of eczema, all of which have their own characteristics and triggers.
Neurodermatitis is a complication of AD but usually confined to one or two areas of thick, scaly patches which are extremely itchy. Stress is a trigger.
Contact dermatitis is pretty self-explanatory. An itchy localised rash occurs when the body comes into contact with a particular substance that triggers an allergic reaction such as detergents, bleach, latex, soaps, jewellery, shampoos and perfumes.
Seborrheic eczema affects areas where sebaceous glands overproduce like the scalp, nose, and upper back. It causes cradle-cap in babies and red, greasy scales in adults.
Discoid eczema is characterised by oval red spots that crust and scale. It usually shows up on the lower arms or lower legs of young adults about age 35.
Statis eczema is associated with poor circulation to the lower legs (e.g. varicose veins) causing them to turn brown become dry, cracked, and itchy. Most common in the elderly.
Dyshidrotic eczema causes tiny blisters which erupt across the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Triggers include damp hands and feet, stress, and exposure to substances like nickel.
For those who live with eczema it can be a debilitating condition and can have serious impact not only physically but also emotionally. It can lead to disturbed sleep, embarrassment, and difficulty concentrating. One survey found that more than 30% of people with eczema have been diagnosed with anxiety and/or depression.
Fortunately, there are many good treatments out there that can help keep eczema under control. I recommend seeking advice from a Natural Health Practitioner for a holistic approach. Statis eczema is associated with poor circulation to the lower legs (e.g. varicose veins) causing them to turn brown become dry, cracked, and itchy. Most common in the elderly.
Dyshidrotic eczema causes tiny blisters which erupt across the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Triggers include damp hands and feet, stress, and exposure to substances like nickel.
For those who live with eczema it can be a debilitating condition and can have serious impact not only physically but also emotionally. It can lead to disturbed sleep, embarrassment, and difficulty concentrating. One survey found that more than 30% of people with eczema have been diagnosed with anxiety and/or depression.
Fortunately, there are many good treatments out there that can help keep eczema under control. I recommend seeking advice from a Natural Health Practitioner for a holistic approach.