More information about Eczema / Dermatitis :
Possible Causes of Eczema / Dermatitis
There are several different types of eczema, many of which look similar but have very different causes and treatments. The first step in effective treatment of eczema is a correct diagnosis. Atopic eczema is the most common form of eczema and is closely linked with asthma and hay fever. Atopic eczema can affect both children and adults, and it usually runs in families. One of the most common symptoms of atopic eczema is its itchiness (or pruritis), which can be almost unbearable. Other symptoms include overall dryness of the skin, redness and inflammation. Constant scratching can also cause the skin to split, leaving it prone to infection. In infected eczema, the skin may crack and weep (‘wet’ eczema). Treatments include emollients to maintain skin hydration and steroids to reduce inflammation.
Allergic contact dermatitis - develops when the body’s immune system reacts against a substance in contact with the skin. The allergic reaction often develops over a period of time through repeated contact with the substance. For example, an allergic reaction may occur to nickel, which is often found in earrings, belt buckles and jeans buttons. Reactions can also occur after contact with other substances, such as perfumes and rubber. In order to prevent repeated reactions it is best to prevent contact with anything that you know causes a rash.
Irritant contact dermatitis - is a type of eczema caused by frequent contact with everyday substances, such as detergents and chemicals, that irritate the skin. Irritant contact dermatitis most commonly occurs on the hands of adults and can be prevented by avoiding the irritants and keeping the skin moisturized.
Infantile seborrhoeic eczema - is a common condition that affects babies in their first year. The exact cause of infantile seborrhoeic eczema is unknown. Also referred to as cradle cap, it usually starts on the scalp and spreads. Although this type of eczema looks unpleasant, it is not sore or itchy and does not cause the baby to feel uncomfortable or unwell. Cradle cap usually clears up on its own in a few months.
Adult seborrhoeic eczema - characteristically affects adults between the ages of 20 and 40. It is usually seen on the scalp as mild dandruff, but can spread to the face, ears and chest. The skin becomes red, inflamed and starts to flake. The condition is believed to be caused by a yeast growth. If the condition becomes infected, treatment with an anti-fungal cream may be necessary.
Varicose or Stasis eczema - affects the lower legs of those in their middle to late years and is caused by poor circulation. Varicose eczema causes speckled, itchy and inflamed skin around the ankles. Treatment emollients and steroid creams is usually effective. If left untreated, the skin can break down, resulting in an ulcer.
Discoid eczema - is usually found in adults and appears suddenly as a few coin shaped areas of red skin on the trunk or lower legs. The affected areas become itchy and can weep fluid. Discoid eczema is usually treated with emollients and steroid creams.
Each type of eczema has its own unique cause. Atopic dermatitis is thought to be a hereditary condition. People with atopic eczema are usually sensitive to allergens in the environment that are harmless to others. Associated atopic conditions include asthma and hay fever. Other types of eczema are caused by irritants, such as chemicals, detergents, allergens and yeast growths. Exposure to sunlight, cold weather, hot weather, dry atmosphere, stress and infections can also trigger eczema. In later years, eczema can be caused by a blood circulatory problems in the legs. The causes of certain types of eczema remain to be explained, though links with environmental factors and stress are being explored.
Possible Symptoms and Complications of Eczema / Dermatitis
The most common symptom of eczema is dry, itchy patches of skin located on the hands, neck, face and legs. Children often develop patches in the bends of the elbows and behind the knees, as well. Skin affected by eczema can also appear thickened, scaly, crusty and darker than other areas of the body. Complications of eczema include secondary skin infections and permanent scarring.
Possible Lifestyle Changes for Eczema / Dermatitis
There is currently no cure for eczema; however, there are many ways to minimize the discomfort and distress it causes. A good skin care regimen is a good first start in preventing eczema outbreaks. Applying emollients to the skin provides a seal or barrier on the skin, making it less dry and itchy. Emollients are safe to use as often as is necessary and are available in several different forms. The range of emollients available is enormous and it may be necessary to try several before the most suitable one is found. When eczema is under control, only emollients need to be used; however, if skin becomes inflamed, a steroid cream may be needed. Steroids act by reducing inflammation and are used in most types of eczema. Very severe cases of eczema are treated with oral steroids and ultraviolet light treatment.
Emollients and steroids are very effective in treating eczema, but there are other ways to reduce the severity of atopic dermatitis. Reduce the itch of eczema by wearing cotton clothing and using cotton bedding to keep the skin cool and allow it to breathe. Reduce the effect of the house dust mite by vacuuming regularly and change bedding frequently. Minimizing environmental allergens in the home is also very helpful. Remember: what works for one person, will not always work for another. Eczema is a highly individual condition, which is why it is so difficult to find a "cure-all".
More information about Psoriasis :
There are five different forms of Psoriasis:
- Plaque Psoriasis is the most common form.
- Guttate Psoriasis - characterized by small dot-like lesions.
- Pustular Psoriasis - characterized by weeping lesions and intense scaling.
- Inverse Psoriasis - characterized by intense inflammation and little scaling.
- Erythrodermic Psoriasis - characterized by intense sloughing and inflammation of the skin.
Psoriasis can range from mild to moderate to very severe and disabling. Both males and females get psoriasis in equal numbers. It can strike at any age, but most often between 15 and 35; however, a first-time diagnosis of psoriasis has been seen in very old people, newborn babies and small children. There is presently no known cure. The disease seems to lessen during the summer months. It may go away on its own, but once you have had psoriasis, it is always possible that it will return.
Possible Causes of Psoriasis
The exact cause of psoriasis is not known, although a recent study has established that it is an immune-mediated disorder. We do know that psoriasis is the growth of too many skin cells. A normal skin cell matures in 28 to 30 days but a psoriatic skin cell takes only 3 to 6 days. Psoriasis is not contagious, but it can be hereditary. Attacks can be triggered by nervous tension, stress, illness, surgery, cuts, poison ivy, infections, sunburn and the drugs lithium, chloroquine and beta-blockers.
Possible Symptoms of Psoriasis
Psoriasis may appear as patches of silvery scales or red areas on legs, knees, arms, elbows, scalp, ears and back. The toes and fingernails lose their luster and develop ridges and pits. Often hereditary, it is linked to a rapid growth of cells in the skin's outer layer. A physician makes the diagnosis after observing the skin and studying the psoriatic plaque cells under a microscope. Pitting of the nails can be a sign of psoriasis. There is no medical test for psoriasis.
Possible Lifestyle Changes for Psoriasis
Most people with psoriasis function normally, but some people with extreme cases experience low self-esteem because severe psoriasis can be unsightly. People with psoriasis should always wash their hands before touching the affected area (face, body, scalp) before applying any creams, ointments and/or treatments. Remember to close medication tubes tightly after use and store transparent containers away from direct sunlight and heat. Do not freeze psoriasis medications. Eat a diet of 50 percent raw foods, including vegetables, fruits and grains. Eat plenty of fiber. Do not consume citrus fruits, fried foods, processed foods, saturated fats, sugar or white flour.
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