Eczema | |
| Eczema, allergic dermatitis and atopic dermatitis are all allergic forms of dermatitis. This causes inflammation of the skin. The allergy is difficult, if not impossible, to trace. Dermatitis is characterised by redness, swelling, heat and itching. The original redness can become blistery with the production of very small pinpoint blisters which break to form a weeping surface which can eventually crust. The end result which may take months to years to develop can be either a thickening of the skin producing a leathery type surface or a scaly surface. Babies with infantile eczema tend to suffer from extreme nappy rash which makes the surfaces weep. This can be aggravated by urine which produces severe irritation and discomfort. Even the tears can produce reddened and weeping cheeks. The tendency is inherited and the conditions, hayfever, asthma and eczema are often found in the children of one family. Clothing, perhaps wool, and animal hair can often be the triggering influences. Eczema can occur when skin rubs on skin. In the folds of elbows, behind the knees, in the groin, around the neck and on the wrist where clothing rubs on the surface of the skin. In the older child and the adult, emotion can be a factor in making the sufferer more sensitive to other influences and producing recurring attacks of eczema. If you believe that you or your child is suffering from eczema, obtain medical advice. It is a very long term condition in which the treatment will have to worry with the different stages. |
