Eczema is a skin ailment indicated by redness, dryness, flaky, scaly skin and irritation. Sufferers often scratch, causing skin breaks and bleeding. More serious instances may result in pus-filled blisters and even infected skin.
Most eczema symptoms manifest around the elbows and knees, on the scalp, and on the hands and feet. However, eczema can appear anywhere on your skin, so you may experience it in other areas of your body.
Eczema & dermatitis can affect anyone of any age. Most cases appear before the age of 35 and are chronic, with periods of activity and remission. Common triggers include:
Stress
Skin injury
Excess alcohol consumption
Smoking
Certain medications
Hormonal fluctuations
Insect bite reactions*
*Nummular eczema is commonly triggered by insect bites.
Eczema can also be triggered by skin irritants. This type of eczema is known as irritant dermatitis, and it can lead infants to develop nappy rash. Common triggers include:
Antibacterials and antiseptics
Toiletries and cosmetics
Detergents and soaps
Disinfectants
Oils
Eczema is one of the most common skin issues, affecting around 10% of adults and 20% of children in the UK. Some of the other common skin issues people experience include cold sores, acne and various types of psoriasis — such as widespread plaque psoriasis and generalised pustular psoriasis.
Currently, eczema has no cure. Eczema treatment aims to reduce the severity of symptoms. Topical corticosteroids are the go-to option for mild to moderate cases.