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Eczema is a red rash or red patches of the skin that is commonly found inside the folds of elbows, knees, hands, feet and cheeks. It develops due to a defective skin barrier and can be very uncomfortable.
What is it?
Eczema affects individuals of all ages and is often hereditary and linked with allergies. It results in dry, flaky skin, blisters or small bumps and — in severe instances — can cause painful, bleeding cracks.
While many people use the term eczema to describe their atopic dermatitis, eczema refers to a broader spectrum of skin disorders. Atopic dermatitis, the most prevalent type of eczema, can affect virtually any part of the skin. This condition is frequently seen in infants and young children, causing rashes on their cheeks and chin. However, it can impact people of all ages and occur anywhere on the body.
People with eczema endure flare-ups, during which the rash becomes inflamed, itchy, uncomfortable and painful, interspersed with periods of remission that span weeks, months or even years. Although eczema is not contagious, it can cause significant discomfort.
How is it treated?
While there may not be a definitive cure for eczema, emollient treatments—such as petroleum jelly and skin-hydrating products—can often relieve its symptoms.
Our Dermatology & Skin Surgery Center’s board-certified dermatologists can accurately identify which of the seven varieties of eczema you may be suffering from and devise a tailored skin health regimen with effective treatments such as:
Recently, many advancements have been made in developing innovative treatments that can diminish (and occasionally eradicate) symptoms. Eczema patients who have not found relief with previous treatments might discover that these new medications offer effective results and benefits. Begin your path to relief today by scheduling a consultation at one of our offices in Adrian, Battle Creek, Dowagiac, Hillsdale, Jackson, Kalamazoo, St. Joseph and Sturgis, Michigan, or Angola, Elkhart, Goshen and Plymouth, Indiana.