What Exactly Is Eczema?

Do you have symptoms of red, itchy, and rough patches of skin? If so, you may be suffering from a health condition called eczema. However, before jumping to that conclusion, you need to speak with a dermatologist here at Southside Dermatology & Skin Cancer Surgery Center in Tulsa, OK, for an accurate diagnosis.

What is eczema?

Characterized by swollen, red patches of itchy skin, eczema affects over 30 million Americans, especially babies and young children. A non-contagious, immunologic response to allergens, eczema is linked to family history and includes several other condition types:

• Atopic dermatitis — the most common form of eczema
• Contact dermatitis — an itchy, red rash that develops when you touch an allergen
• Dyshidrotic eczema — develops as small, itchy blisters on your hands and feet
• Nummular eczema — causes coin-shaped patches anywhere on your body
• Seborrheic dermatitis — causes dry, flaky patches of skin
• Stasis dermatitis — changes to your skin tone or texture

What are the symptoms of eczema?

Symptoms usually subside as children grow, but the inflamed rash can recur at any point in your life.

Symptoms you should keep an eye out for include:

• Red, inflamed skin
• Very bad itching
• Dark-colored patches of skin
• Rough, leathery, or scaly patches of skin
• Oozing or crusting patches of skin
• Areas of swelling

How is eczema treated?

The providers at our Tulsa office can help you start treatment. They may prescribe medicated creams such as corticosteroid ointments to relieve swelling, inflammation, and itching, as well as topical treatments to control infection, or even light therapy.

Your dermatologist can also give you tips on how to take proper care of your skin at home. For instance, how to keep skin clean and moisturized, as well as which creams could bring you relief.

Want to speak with a dermatologist?

Do you need treatment for your eczema? Call Southside Dermatology & Skin Cancer Surgery Center in Tulsa, OK, at (918) 760-0700 for an appointment.