Eczema is a very common skin condition, as it affects up to 15 million Americans each year.

Read on as our AFC Urgent Care Southcenter team provides more information on this skin condition.

What Is Eczema?

Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition that causes a rash. It’s most common among children and infants, but it affects many adults, too.

Additionally, eczema is one of many types of dermatitis, and it damages the skin barrier function (the “glue” of your skin), which will, in turn, make the skin more sensitive and more prone to infection and dryness. We’ve listed eczema’s most common symptoms below.

Common Symptoms of Eczema

• Dry skin
• Itching, which may be severe, especially at night
• Red to brownish-gray patches—especially on the hands, feet, ankles, wrists, neck, upper chest, eyelids, inside the bend of the elbows and knees, and in infants, the face and scalp
• Small, raised bumps, which may leak fluid and crust over when scratched
• Thickened, cracked, scaly skin
• Raw, sensitive, swollen skin from scratching

How Treatable Is Eczema?

Not very treatable. There is no known cure for eczema, but eczema “flare-ups” can be treated and managed.

The best way to treat and manage eczema flare-ups is by carefully avoiding potential eczema triggers, such as cigarette smoke, soaps and specific fragrances. If you deal with eczema, we’ve listed a few effective treatment ideas below.

Ways to Treat Eczema

• Use a humidifier if dry air makes your skin dry.
• Use mild soaps and other products that are free of perfumes, dyes and alcohol. Look for products labeled “fragrance free,” “hypoallergenic” and “for sensitive skin.”
• Moisturize your skin using a cream or ointment. Lotions don’t work as well. Apply several times a day, including after you bathe or shower.
• Use lukewarm water in the tub or shower instead of hot.

Need medical care? Our AFC Urgent Care Southcenter team is here for you, so don’t hesitate to visit us!