Eczema Treatment in Central Texas
What Is Eczema?
Tru-Skin Dermatology believes in creating effective treatment plans for eczema that include specific cleansers, moisturizers, bathing recommendations, and prescription-strength medications. While there is no known cure for eczema, our experts help you successfully manage the process so life can return to normal.
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that can cause the skin to stay dry and irritated. It is most common in babies and children but can stay with adults as well. People with eczema lack proteins that maintain their skin’s barrier to water. This then causes the skin to be sensitive to irritants. They are also more susceptible to infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungus due to their skin’s lack of ability to protect the body from outside contaminants.
Symptoms of Eczema
Symptoms of eczema vary from patient to patient. Most commonly, the symptoms include:
- Dry, irritated, itchy rash-like skin
- Red to brownish-gray patches, especially on creases such ankles, wrists, neck, upper chest, eyelids, inside the bend of the elbows and knees, hands, feet. In infants, face and scalp are also common.
- Blisters that weep clear fluid or crust over when scratched
- Rough, thickened skin from long-term irritation and scratching
Causes of Eczema
The exact cause of eczema is still unknown. We do know that it is not contagious. It appears to be genetic and caused by environmental factors. Eczema is most commonly found in children whose parents have severe allergies or asthma. Other causes can be food allergies. Additionally, patients who live in dense cities or dry climates are more likely to have eczema breakouts. Certain products, situations, foods, and allergies can cause flare-ups. These are commonly referred to as triggers. Knowing your triggers and how to avoid them can help you lead a more comfortable life. Some of the most common eczema triggers include:
- Soaps
- Wool
- Polyester
- Pet dander
- Fragrances
- Lotions
- Household cleaners
- Cigarette smoke
- Anxiety and emotional stress
- Sweating
What Should I Do for At-Home Remedies?
Between visits to our dermatology office, there are several treatments you can take at home to reduce itching. Because there is no cure for eczema, the best you can do is lower the symptoms and keep your skin healthy. We’ll help create a plan that works for you. Some of the best treatment options at home include:
- Try not to scratch your skin.
- Use topical steroid cream or over-the-counter antihistamine medicine to relieve itching.
- Keep your skin hydrated by using creams, lotions, and ointments two to three times a day. Make sure your products are free of alcohol, scents, dyes, or other irritants.
- Avoid scalding hot showers as they can dry out your skin. Instead, take cooler baths and apply lotion as soon as you get out and dry off.
- Know your triggers so that you can avoid exposure
- Keep your fingernails short and maintained to reduce damage from scratching. If you scratch your skin in your sleep, invest in some light gloves.
When Should I See a Doctor?
You should schedule an appointment with Tru-Skin Dermatology if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Your symptoms do not improve with at-home care
- The treatment your healthcare provider is not producing results
- Your condition worsens, such as signs of an infection or red, painful skin