Please discuss eczema:
1. causes
2. cures
3. treatments, conventional and alternative
Thank you!
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Sorry for the delay in this answer, but the best answer is longer than I have time to give here. First, let me refer you to the following web site, it you have access to a web browser: http://www.derm-infonet.com/pip/htm
Now for a simple answer:
Eczema is a term used both as a diagnosis and an adjective (eczematous refers to skin that is red, fissured, weeping, and itchy). There are many forms of conditions that fall under the category of eczema, however, and some are more or less eczematous as common features. In general, different forms of eczema (atopic dermatitis, nummular eczema, asteatotic eczema) are "caused" by a combination of internal (a person with "sensitive" skin) and external (harsh soaps, poor hygiene, dry air) factors.
The basic treatment is to calm down the dermatitis (inflammation of the skin) and then prevent recurrences as much a possible. The treatment of dermatitis is often with topical steroids (e.g. hydrocortisone, but prescription varieties are stronger and usually more effective). The prevention and concurrent treatment involves good moisturization and avoidance of offending agents (harsh soaps, fragrances, occupations or hobbies that involve exposure to irritants). Patch testing can sometimes be helpful to discover specific chemicals causing an allergic reaction in the skin and their avoidance can be extremely helpful to the person.
There are many innovative therapies for severe eczema that carry increased risk and should be discussed with a dermatologist. Occasionally, someone will find that their eczema is related to certain foods or dust, but I think this is less common than some would have you believe.
Once again, I apologize for the delay in this answer. I hope this helps. Eliot
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Dermatology Online: Served by Eliot N. Mostow, MD, MPH
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
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