Symptoms Of Eczema: Understanding The Signs Of Eczema

Eczema symptoms come in a variety of different forms, with no two people suffering in exactly the same way. Of the symptoms which can be experienced, most sufferers share a dry itch, redness, cracking of the skin and rashes at specific affected areas. The itch is one of the most problematic symptoms, given that it is this that makes the suffer want to scratch which ultimately causes the extent of the discomfort for most patients. Treating this is the first step on the way to successful management of the condition.

Patients suffering from eczema have a tendency to become more susceptible to itching and scratching, which pushes them into a perpetual 'itch-scratch' cycle. This is characterized by a severe itch, which the sufferer then feels the urge to scratch. In turn, this scratching worsens the condition of the affected skin, thus making it more strongly itch, and so the cycle continues. This can be a particularly hard routine to break, which makes eczema such a significant problem for its sufferers.

Eczema has been known to impact on the skin above and around the eyes and eyebrows, which can be particularly dangerous as regards scratching. If the area around the eyes is persistently scratched it often develops an unpleasant appearance. Many people suffering from eczema eventually get an atopic pleat, which appears like skin-folds below their eyes. Sometimes inflammation can cause the skin around the eyelids to darken. Eyelashes and eyebrows may also become thinner and lose their hairs due to excessive rubbing.

Researchers have noted differences in the skin of people with eczema that may contribute to the skin symptoms. Research has been carried out on the skin types of eczema sufferers, which has shown differences in the skin compared to that of non-sufferers. The outer layer of skin, the epidermis, consists of two divisions. The innermost segment consists of damp cells and the external section, also called the horny layer, is dead and lacking moisture.

Despite the unpleasant symptoms of eczema, there are a vast number of treatments on the market. Topical creams are available on prescription, products like elidel are a popular choice and should prevent the itching and promote skin recovery. Many sufferers find phototherapy very helpful as it uses UVB to solve many skin problems that contribute to eczema. Simple things like altering your diet can really result in improvements to your skin.

As those with eczema tend to have skin that is seriously lacking in moisture, it is best to ensure that baths are not too hot as the hot water can make the skin even dryer, and moisturize frequently. Some soaps can act as an irritant to skin, so those with eczema should choose their products carefully and opt to use soaps for sensitive skin only. Cleansers that are soap-free are also a good thing to use, soap even if designed for sensitive skin will no doubt dry your skin out.

Talking to your doctor can help you find the best mode of treatment for your eczema. You should not be embarrassed or disheartened by the symptoms you are experiencing as eczema is a common skin condition. Your doctor will try to ensure that with the correct treatment, your eczema will be unable to disrupt your everyday life.

By: Judy Wellsworth

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