Eczema represents a series of skin conditions that are caused by various allergic reactions or at times from the body's response to an immune system deficiency. The result can lead to inflammation of the skin, redness, and itchy patches similar to dermatitis. In many cases, the inflammation itself is dermatitis. This can occur anywhere on your body, including the hands, face, neck, or other areas. Atopic dermatitis is the most common type and is usually the result of an allergic reaction. This condition generally starts in childhood. At Summerlin Dermatology in Las Vegas, NV, Dr. Reuel Aspacio will strive to diagnose exactly what is causing the outbreak so that an accurate treatment plan can be created and carried out.

Eczema is a hypersensitivity condition similar to asthma or an allergy. It is a chronic skin condition that has a wide range of symptoms. Some outbreaks are minor and involve very little beyond redness, itchiness, and dry skin. Symptoms can grow progressively worse with cracked, itchy, irritated, bleeding and sometimes infected skin. Eczema is impossible to cure completely, but it is manageable with regular treatments. We have a number of treatments available to help control and minimize the symptoms.

Doctors aren't entirely sure what causes eczema, but it's believed to be triggered by many factors. Immune system abnormalities, genetics, the environment, skin irritants, and skin barrier defects are the most common causes. Family genetics play a role because certain genes can cause patients to have extremely sensitive skin. A patient with relatives who suffer from asthma or allergies are at a higher risk of developing eczema.

Eczema is most commonly characterized by the dry, itchy, or red skin as well as the persistent rashes. Typically, your skin will begin to itch before a rash appears. Most patients experience patches of skin that are chronically itchy, dry, or thickened. These patches can appear anywhere but mostly occur on the face, neck, hands, or legs. With children, patches can appear on the inner creases of the knees and elbows. Once the skin is scratched, dry patches and open sores with crust could develop and could become infected. Severe symptoms could include pus-filled blisters or a yellowish to light brown crust developing over existing eczema patches, which could be a sign of a bacterial infection.

Eczema can be treated with an array of over-the-counter or prescribed medication and ointments. Hydrocortisone creams and ointments can be bought as well as antihistamines, such as Benadryl, to help relieve symptoms. Prescription medications such as steroid creams or immunomodulators may help those with severe eczema. An oral steroid or corticosteroid may also be prescribed. In extreme cases, ultraviolet light therapy or laser treatment may also be applied to the affected areas. When other solutions have failed, immunosuppressants may be prescribed.

Because eczema covers a range of possible causes and triggers, a treatment regimen is tailored to each patient. This means that no one treatment will work for everyone.

Whether you have suffered from eczema for years with little to no relief or have just recently noticed an itchy rash and a difference in your skin, there are numerous treatment options available. Employing a multi-level treatment approach which includes prevention, detection, and treatment allows you to not only manage your eczema, but also notice a significant decrease in symptoms. Seek relief from your eczema-related symptoms today at Summerlin Dermatology.