Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) Basics

What is eczema?

Atopic dermatitis (also called eczema) is a condition where the skin is dry, red and

itchy. The skin's primary function is to provide protection (keeping water in and

irritants out). In eczema, that protection is not working well. The skin gets dry and

easily irritated. As a result, when patients with eczema get a flare, the skin gets red,

scaly and itchy.

Why do people get eczema?

A big part of eczema's cause is dues to genetics. In particular, the genes that control how the skin is put together can be altered in patients with eczema. However, there are also factors in the environment that can trigger eczema flares. Scratching, saliva/sweat, irritating soaps, dust mites, and pet dander are more common triggers.

There is no blood test to diagnose eczema. Fortunately, most patients outgrow eczema.

However, some will continue to have sensitive skin into adulthood.

How do you 'fix' eczema?

The main goal in treating eczema is to prevent flares and stop the skin from

itching. Since the root of the problem is the skin barrier, an essential part

of treatment is to moisturize the skin constantly.

Once the skin gets irritated, the moisturizers are not enough to get things

under control. This is where prescription medication comes into play. Think

of these like water to put out the fire of eczema. There are weak, medium and

strong medicines.

The key is to find one that will put eczema out completely (within two weeks or less). Once the eczema is gone, you can stop the medications until the next flare.

While you are using these medications, continue to moisturize the skin. If you use these medications properly, they are very safe.

Other ways to treat the skin include special antiseptic baths (called bleach baths), avoiding triggers like fragrances in detergents, creams and soaps, and special bandages called "wet wraps."