What is Eczema (Dermatitis)? Symptoms and Treatment Methods

Eczema, also known as dermatitis in medicine, is a common group of skin diseases characterized by skin redness, dryness, itching, flaking and sometimes leaking wounds.Eczema is not a single disease; it is the general name for similar-looking skin conditions that occur for different reasons..

  • Genetic predisposition, environmental factors, immune system responses and weakness in the skin barrier are among the main causes of eczema.
  • Eczema is a chronic disease, but it can be controlled with correct diagnosis, appropriate treatment and regular skin care.

There are many subtypes of eczema; the most common are atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis..


 

1. Atopic Dermatitis (Atopic Eczema)

Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema.It usually begins in infancy, but can continue into childhood and adulthood.It is associated with genetic predisposition and can be seen together with atopy, commonly known as "allergic body".Atopic dermatitis manifests itself with recurring, itchy, and dry skin lesions, usually on the inside of the elbows, behind the knees, neck, and face..

  • Treatment:The most important step is to strengthen the skin barrier. Fragrance-free, rich moisturizers should be applied daily, especially within the first 5 minutes after showering.
  • Take a short shower with lukewarm water, and instead of soap, choose pH-balanced cleansers that are specific for atopic skin.
  • Cotton clothes should be used and wool and synthetic fabrics should be avoided.
  • During flare-ups, treatment with cortisone creams or calcineurin inhibitors (tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) can be applied.
  • If an infection develops, antibiotic or antiseptic treatment may be necessary under the supervision of a dermatologist. In resistant cases, phototherapy (light therapy) or systemic medications may be used.

 

2. Contact Dermatitis (Contact Eczema)

Contact dermatitis develops as a result of an irritant or allergic reaction to a substance that the skin comes into contact with.It manifests itself as redness, blisters, itching and water-filled lesions on the skin.There are two main types:

  • a) İrritan Kontakt DermatitIt develops as a result of contact with irritating substances such as soap, detergent, cleaning products, disinfectants, and cosmetics. It is most commonly seen on the hands. Treatment:It is essential to avoid contact with the irritant substance and to use moisturizing creams and, when necessary, cortisone creams to repair the skin barrier.
  • b) Allergic Contact DermatitisThe skin develops an allergic response to the substance it comes into contact with through the immune system. Patch testing for diagnosis (patch test) can be applied. Treatment:The allergen must be completely avoided. Topical or systemic cortisone treatment is added if necessary.

 

3. Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is characterized by oily flaking, redness, and dandruff, especially on the scalp, eyebrows, nose, behind the ears, and chest area.Cold weather, stress and hormonal changes can trigger the disease.The mild form is known as “dandruff”.

  • Formation:Overactivity of the sebaceous glands, Malassezia The increase in fungus and immune system imbalance play a role.
  • Treatment:Antifungal shampoos and creams, as well as short-term corticosteroid or immunomodulatory topical products, are used. In severe cases, oral medications may be used.

 

Other Types of Eczema

  • Nummular eczema:It presents with round, coin-shaped, red and scaly lesions.
  • Dyshidrotic eczema:It is characterized by small, itchy, water-filled blisters on the fingers and toes.
  • Dermatitis stasis:It develops as a result of vascular insufficiency in the legs and is accompanied by brown discoloration, edema and wounds.
  • Asteatotic eczema:It is characterized by extreme skin dryness and itching seen in the elderly and during the winter months.

 

Suggestions for Success in Eczema Treatment

  • Gently cleanse and moisturize the skin every day.
  • Avoid taking a hot shower, prefer lukewarm water.
  • Avoid perfumed and alcoholic products.
  • Avoid irritating the skin when itching occurs.
  • Consider sun, stress, and allergens as triggers.
  • Use the medications recommended by your dermatologist regularly.

Eczema treatment should be tailored to each patient's specific cause and type. With accurate diagnosis, appropriate medical treatment, and regular skin care, eczema can be controlled. A personalized care plan developed by your dermatologist can strengthen your skin barrier, reduce itching, and improve your quality of life.