https://nationaleczema.org/research/eczema-prevalence/
http://www.nytimes.com/health/guides/disease/eczema/overview.html
Statistics
approx 1/3 children with eczema have moderate to severe cases
Outlook
It can be a stressful or embarrassing skin condition, potentially leading to depression or anxiety
It can also disrupt sleep
It can be controlled by avoiding irritation and moisturizing, However, it is a long-term, periodically occurring condition.
No cure has been found
Home Remedies:
- general allergy/anti-itch meds
- a diluted bleach bath: kills bacteria
- anti-itch creams and frequent moisturizers
- don't scratch
- warm bath
- humidifier
- mild soaps and smooth clothing
- treat stress and anxiety
Treatment:
even if treated, it will continue to flare up periodically
drugs/meds:
- creams that control itching/inflammation
- creams that repair skin by reducing flares and controlling itching
- antibiotics: sometimes you have sores from itching and need antibiotics to fight potential infection
- oral anti-itch drugs
- oral or injected anti-inflammatory drugs
therapy:
- wet dressing: applying a wrap with corticosteroids
- light therapy: controlled exposure to natural or artificial UV light
- counseling: to reduce stress and habitual scratching
Signs/Symptoms
varies from person to person
- itching
- red or other colored areas
- raised bumps: can release fluid (ew) when scratched
- thick/scaly skin
- raw skin from scratching
It often starts at a young age and continues throughout life to flare up then subside
Causes
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eczema/basics/definition/con-20032073
exact cause is unknown
can be triggered by:
- dry skin
- genetic issues (your family history, gene variations)
- Immune system disfunction
- bacteria that blocks sweat glands
- environmental conditions: pollen, allergens, etc.
- dietary choices
Higher risk involving family history of eczema and who you interact with (i.e. health care, public, etc.)
What it is
AKA Atopic Dermatitis
Inflammation of the skin- usually causes redness, itchiness