That Might Be More Than a Skin Rash

Saturday, February 4th

That Might Be More than a Skin Rash

We all know that certain people are more sensitive than others. They are more prone to develop allergies and may "break out" or have skin rashes more often than others. While some of these rashes may be due to an allergic reaction, there are medical conditions that cause periodic skin rashes such as psoriasis and eczema.

Eczema is a skin condition that normally appears in young children and follows them throughout life. Sixty percent of all cases of eczema appear before age one and an amazing 90 percent by the age of five. In some cases, this disorder can become less severe and may even disappear as the person gets older, but for the most part, it is a life-long sentence. In fact, more than half of the people who develop eczema as children continue to suffer with it as adults.

Eczema is identified by red, scaly, bumpy, itchy patches that can become infected and may discharge liquid or pus. In patients who scratch a lot, the skin of the infected areas can become thick and raised up. While other skin conditions can resemble eczema, there are certain spots of the body that are characteristic for eczema flare ups: behind the knees, in front of the elbows, the neck, and in other folds of the skin.

Since eczema can be confused with other conditions, the placement of the rash is key to identifying the disorder. Family history is also taken into consideration and a biopsy may also be ordered.

Although the exact cause of eczema is unknown, certain factors do contribute to it. People who are overly sensitive to their environment or people who have a lot of allergies tend to be more susceptible to the disorder. It also is common in people who have a family history of eczema.

There are also certain triggers that can lead to an eczema flare up in persons who have been diagnosed with the disorder. Here is a short list of things that can cause an eczema skin rash:

Certain types of clothing such as wool or other material that irritates the skin.
Lower humidity and/or temperature.
Stress
Creams, perfumes, or soaps may make it worse.
The weather.

By avoiding the triggers that cause flare ups and by following doctor-prescribed regimens, most eczema patients can lessen the impact that eczema has on their skin and lives. They can lengthen the time between episodes and can lessen the severity of those episodes when they do occur.

Research continues, and one day a cure for eczema may be found. In the meantime, newer and better products are being formulated with fewer side effects than the options that have been used in the past. And many cases are able to be managed with these newer choices. While it's not a cure, it's a step in the right direction - which is a relief for eczema sufferers young and old alike.

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Eczema Product FAQ

What is eczema?

Eczema is an itchy inflammation of the skin. The main symptom is a rash that is usually found on the arms or behind the knees, but it can appear anywhere on the body. The skin will usually feel dry and bumpy and may appear cracked.

What causes eczema?

Eczema is usually developed in early childhood and is most common with people who have a family history of the condition. There are certain triggers that can cause eczema to flare up like certain soaps, detergents, wool, dry skin, heat, or emotional stress. Allergens like dust mites, molds, pollen, or food can also be the reason that eczema appears. It is often hard to identify the exact reason that you or your child has eczema.

Is eczema a harmful condition?

If you have eczema, it will not cause any harm to the other areas of your body unless it's left alone and eventually causes a skin infection. The main reason this is a condition people want to get rid of is because it can be extremely uncomfortable. Itching may be intense and scratching only further irritates the skin and causes sores.

How can I get rid of eczema?

Experts usually recommend avoiding soap and other irritants if you're experiencing eczema. These can dry out the skin and make the problem worse. To fully heal from eczema, you may be offered prescription medicines from a doctor, but these could be expensive. Fortunately, there are many highly-rated, safely-developed options you can find online to find fast relief from your eczema.

Are eczema products safe?

Yes! The eczema products available online are developed specifically to nourish skin and heal eczema without causing any further damage or side effects. Some formulas are made with 100% natural ingredients derived from plant sources. You're more likely to find a treatment without harsh chemicals online than if you use a prescription from a doctor.

How much do eczema products cost?

Effective eczema treatments can cost as little as $10! Depending on how severe your case is and how many areas of eczema need to be treated, you may need to purchase a few bottles of an oil or cream, but you'll find that no matter the route you go, you won't pay much. Eczema is a condition that can be treated affordably and quickly.

How are eczema products applied?

Most eczema products come in the form of a cream, serum, or ointment. They are applied directly onto the skin, covering the affected areas. You might be recommended to use some products more than once per day for maximum results, but it takes as little as 1 or 2 minutes for a treatment.

What if I try an eczema product that doesn't work for me?

If you don't have success with the eczema product you use, check to see if it came with a money-back guarantee. Many companies stand by their products with an offer to get a refund if you weren't satisfied with your results. If not, you probably didn't lose too much money since eczema products are so affordable; try a new cream or ointment in hopes that it works better.