Eczema

Up to 20% of kids and 3% of adults in the U.S. suffer from the itchy, scaly, oozy, or blistery skin of eczema flares. You can get relief from the discomfort and embarrassment of eczema rashes from the Goodman Dermatology and Mohs Surgery team at Sun City West and Sun City, Arizona. Led by Seth Goodman, DO, and Matt Goodman, MD, contact the practice for individually tailored eczema treatment by phone or online.

What is eczema?

Eczema refers to a group of non-contagious medical conditions that result in inflamed, irritated, and itchy skin. Eczema is most common in children under the age of 10, who usually grow out of it. However, you can have eczema at any age.

You can also have more than one type of eczema at the same time. Some types of eczema include:

• Atopic dermatitis: often inherited and may occur along with asthma and hay fever
• Contact dermatitis: caused by contact with irritants or allergens, such as skincare products, wool, or solvents
• Dyshidrotic eczema: small, itchy blisters on the edges of fingers, toes, palms, and soles
• Nummular eczema: itchy, round or coin-shaped patches
• Seborrheic dermatitis: dry, flaky areas on oily regions, such as the eyebrows, hair-bearing areas, nasal creases, and ears
• Stasis dermatitis: excess pressure in veins due to poor circulation causes fluid leakage and swelling in the lower legs, which can then lead to redness, itching and even ulcers

Why did I get eczema?

Nobody knows the exact cause of eczema. Researchers believe that eczema is triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors that cause your body to initiate an inflammatory immune response. Inflammation is at the root of most eczema symptoms.

How can I tell if I have eczema?

Your Goodman Dermatology provider evaluates your skin and medical history to determine if you have eczema. The different types of eczema cause an array of symptoms, some of which overlap. The most common symptoms include:

• Itching
• Red rash
• Cracked or scaly skin
• Crusted, weeping, or oozing sores or blisters
• Burning or swelling
• Flaking skin
• Pain
• White or yellowing crusty flakes

How do dermatologists treat eczema?

Your Goodman Dermatology specialist individualizes treatment based on your eczema types and severity. You might be able to control your eczema with lifestyle modifications, including moisturizing your skin, limiting stress, and avoiding triggers, such as allergens and temperature changes.

Other therapies that can help include:

• Anti-inflammatory topical medications
• Antihistamines and tar treatments
• Antibiotics (for any bacterial overgrowth)
• Topical immunomodulators
  
• Systemic medications for severe, difficult or non-responsive cases

Don’t hide or scratch your eczema: Get relief from the Goodman Dermatology team. You can request an appointment by phone or use the online booking form.