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Symptoms and Types of Eczema

I have Eczema and have been treated many times but nothing works. But today I just found out there are many types of eczema. What are the different types? And are there any remedies for each type?
(23 Oct 2008)

You are right - there are many different types of eczemas. In fact, the name eczema is not used for a particular disease or condition, but for a wide range of skin conditions. The common factor in all these conditions is inflammation and itching of the skin.


There are many different treatments for eczema, but there isn't really a strict correlation between specific treatments and specific types of eczema. Doctors usually start with milder treatments, selecting whatever is appropriate based on the nature of the inflammation, the severity, and the apparent cause of the problem. If the treatment does not work, the doctor will usually try stronger forms of treatment, perhaps for a short period of time, as many eczema medications have rather strong side effects.

The most common types of eczema are atopic eczema, xerotic eczema, contact dermatitis, and seborrhoeic dermatitis. Atopic eczema seems to be a genetic problem and is rather difficult to treat, while xerotic eczema is simply an extremely severe case of dry skin. In contact dermatitis, the inflammation is directly caused by an irritant or allergen, and therefore once the substance is identified, the problem can be solved quite easily. Seborrhoeic dermatitis however has no clear cause; it causes skin on the scalp and face to flake, itch, and become inflamed, and can also cause hair loss.

You have not provided any information on your own symptoms, so it is not possible to say what time of eczema you have, and what measures you should take. It is also impossible to say whether your doctors have been taking you in the right direction - only a skin specialist will be able to tell you this, after thoroughly examining your skin and your case history. Try to find a good, reliable skin specialist in your area, or at least within reasonable traveling distance. Eczema is not a dangerous disease, but it can be extremely troublesome, and if all your efforts so far have been unsuccessful, it will probably be worth the time, effort, and expense even to travel to another city to meet the right doctor.

As far as handling the problem yourself goes, it is important to avoid contact with harsh chemicals, even substances such as soap, deodorant, paint, and other common household products. Try to make a note of what tends to irritate your skin - certain fabrics may also need to be avoided. Moisturize your skin regularly, preferably immediately after you have bathed. In addition, an occasional cold compress using a soft wet cloth can be quite helpful.

answered by M W on 24 Oct 2008, 12:13:36

 

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