Eczema is a general term that is used to describe common skin conditions of inflammation, and is also referred to as dermatitis. There are several forms of the condition; however, the more commonly reported version is called atopic dermatitis. Eczema symptoms can impact any age, although they are not contagious and bear certain symptoms based on the form of dermatitis.
Dermatitis is a non-contagious skin condition that can start at the early stages of infancy, or it can sprout up later in life. While it is most common in infants and 85% of people will have onset before 5 years of age, it generally is a matter that will resolve itself in young children, often by the time they reach 3 years of age in about half of those children who are affected.
In some cases, the condition will reoccur even past the stages of infancy and in later years. However, it has also been shown that many individuals who suffer from eczema also have a family history of the condition, possible allergies, or hay fever and asthma. While the condition can impact all and any races, it has been shown to be more common amongst girls than boys, with statistics of at least 20% of children being affected, and 1% to 2% of adults.
Although doctors aren’t certain of the exact causes for dermatitis, some studies show that part of the cause may be due to a defect in the skin. This defect may factor into lacking the ability to promote the protective barrier that would be see on more normal skin, as well as issues with the immune system.
Hereditary genes may factor into dermatitis problems, where gene defects may possibly be carried throughout a family’s history, causing abnormalities within specific proteins that help play a crucial role in the skin’s health. However, other forms of eczema such as contact dermatitis may also be due to allergic reactions or skin irritation from harsh products and chemicals. It can also be brought on by certain types of jewelry, laundry detergents, certain soaps, sweating and also clothing. Changes in one’s emotions can trigger the condition, as well as changes within the humidity or weather in general.
Symptoms can vary on a case by case basis, although more common occurrences will have signs of redness, itchiness, burning, dryness, scaliness, and occasionally oozing blisters for slightly more severe conditions. Itching is often the most common symptom associated with eczema, but when the skin is irritated by heavy scratching, it can also be come hard and thickened, almost like leather.
Symptoms can generally crop up along the face, knees, ankles, inner elbow area and the neck, but can also touch upon other areas such as the feet or hands. Infants often experience signs along the cheeks, forearms, legs, neck and scalp. Some people may see that symptoms go away after a few hours or even days, but more chronic cases may see persistent symptoms throughout their life. Although there is no cure for eczema symptoms, fortunately, there are numerous methods and prevention treatments to help manage or relieve them.
See more about symptoms of eczema at www.HealthHints.org. Visit Shawn Onseo’s site to learn more health hints on acne, eczema, stress and more.