03/17/2026
EDUCATIONAL TUESDAY!!! DRY RED PATCHES OF SKIN WITH THE WEATHER TRANSITION???? COULD BE ECZEMA........
Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a common, chronic condition causing dry, itchy, inflamed skin patches often triggered by allergens, irritants, or stress. Symptoms include intense itching, red rashes, and thickened skin. Treatments include moisturizers, topical steroids, and avoiding triggers, with management focused on repairing the skin barrier.
Key Aspects of Eczema
Main Causes/Triggers: While partly genetic, flares are triggered by environmental factors like soaps, fabrics, fragrances, dry air, sweat, and allergens (pollen, dander).
Symptoms: Common signs are intense itching (especially at night), dry/sensitive skin, red to brownish-gray patches, and small, fluid-filled bumps.
Types of Eczema:
Atopic Dermatitis: The most common form; often linked with asthma and hay fever.
Contact Dermatitis: Caused by reactions to substances like soaps, cosmetics, or metals (nickel).
Dyshidrotic Eczema: Causes small, itchy blisters on hands and feet.
Nummular Eczema: Characterized by coin-shaped spots.
Treatments: Management involves regular moisturizing, prescription creams/ointments (corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors), wet wraps, and, for severe cases, phototherapy or biologics.
Risk Factors: Individuals with a family history of eczema, asthma, or hay fever are higher risk. It is very common in infants, though many outgrow it.
Management Tips:
Use gentle, scent-free cleansers.
Apply moisturizers immediately after bathing to lock in moisture.
Keep fingernails trimmed short to reduce skin damage from scratching.
WE CAN ASSIST YOU RIGHT HERE AT 136 BLOCKS STREET!!! STAY SAFE AND HEALTHY!!