Eczema

What is eczema?

Eczema is a skin condition characterized by red, inflamed, itchy skin. Even though eczema looks contagious, it’s not. You may have more than one type of eczema at any given time, including:

Contact dermatitis

You may develop contact dermatitis if your skin is sensitive to chemicals or solvents in skin care products or irritants, such as wool.   

Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis tends to run in families. You may also have allergic rhinitis (hay fever) or asthma if you have atopic dermatitis.

Dyshidrotic eczema

Dyshidrotic eczema is characterized by small, itchy blisters that appear on the edges of your fingers, palms, toes, and soles of your feet.

Nummular eczema

The itchy, coin-shaped lesions of nummular eczema are difficult to treat. Dr. Vellanki may recommend combination therapy to give you relief.

Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis appears as dry flakes on oily regions of your skin, such as your upper back and nose. When you have seborrheic dermatitis on your scalp, it’s referred to as dandruff.

Stasis dermatitis 

Poor circulation in the veins in your lower legs causes fluid leakage, swelling, and other uncomfortable symptoms.

Anyone can get eczema at any age. Children under the age of 10 usually grow out of it. 

What are some eczema symptoms?

Eczema’s symptoms are similar to those of other skin conditions, which is why getting a diagnosis is important. Some symptoms of eczema include:

• Rash
• Scaly, cracked skin
• Itchy skin
• Crusty flakes
• Yellow or white flakes
• Oozing or crusted blisters or sores
• Pain

Dr. Goyal takes a complete medical history and conducts a thorough skin exam to determine the type or types of eczema you have. He then customizes a treatment plan based on your needs.

How do dermatologists treat eczema?

Depending on how severe your eczema is, Dr. Goyal may first recommend lifestyle changes, including identifying and avoiding triggers such as irritants, allergens, and drastic temperature changes. 

He may also recommend chemical-free skin moisturizers to keep you comfortable. Other treatments include:

• Stress management techniques
• Topical hydrocortisone or corticosteroids for inflammation
• Tar treatments and antihistamines to control itching
• Antibiotics to kill allergy-triggering bacteria  
• Cyclosporine if other treatments don’t work
• Topical immunomodulators in extreme cases for older children and adults

You don’t have to hide your eczema or scratch in frustration. Get a diagnosis and customized treatment by calling the helpful team at Coastal Dermatology & Medspa or using the online form.