What Does Eczema Look Like on the Body?

Eczema (also called atopic dermatitis) is a skin disorder that causes chronic inflammation. Your skin will appear red with raised bumps or blotches. The afflicted skin is often discolored and appears red or dark. Certain areas of the body, such as the eyelids, can become red and swollen. The skin feels dry and rough to the touch and is almost like rubbing sandpaper. Many sufferers also report a feeling of tightness. Skin can crack or split, causing severe tears that can ooze, look blistered, and develop scabs. Severe eczema is not only unsightly but also considered painful.

If you suffer from eczema, schedule a consultation with Dr. Jean-Denis Boucher at Lone Star State Dermatology Clinic in San Antonio or Live Oak, TX. He will meet with you to examine your eczema and develop a personalized treatment plan to manage the condition.

All about eczema

Eczema afflicts over 31 million Americans, according to reports. Even infants can suffer from it, but most eventually outgrow the skin condition.

The first symptom of eczema is dry, itchy skin combined with a rash. Often, the skin condition occurs if you come into contact with something that aggravates the skin. Often, identifying environmental triggers can help you avoid an eczema flare-up.

Symptoms of eczema include:

• Itchy skin
• Dryness
• Skin rash
• Thick leather-like areas of skin
• Bumps on the skin’s surface
• Flaky skin
• Swelling
• Discoloration

Common areas for eczema to develop include:

• Elbows
• Hands
• Neck
• Feet
• Knees
• Face
• Lips

What causes eczema?

Many things can cause eczema, such as:

• Immune system: If your immune system overreacts to allergens or irritants, you may develop eczema. When your immune system is triggered, it causes an inflammatory response that leads to eczema.
• Genetics: Many people show a hereditary predisposition toward developing eczema. Individuals who suffer from asthma, allergies, and hay fever also show an increased risk of eczema.
• Environmental irritants: Many things can irritate your skin, such as skin care products, soaps, and materials like wool. Even low humidity can make your skin red and itchy.
• Stress: Feeling stressed can cause a flare-up of eczema.
• Foods: Certain foods, like dairy, eggs, and peanuts, can cause an eczema flare-up. Allergies to foods can also lead to eczema.

Treatment of eczema

Dr. Boucher at Lone Star State Dermatology Clinic in San Antonio and Live Oak, TX will work closely with you to develop a customized treatment plan to help prevent and ease the symptoms of a flare-up.

Treatment options include:

• Use gentle moisturizer after a shower or bath when your skin still feels moist to trap in the moisture.
• Apply topical medications.
• Use oral medications such as anti-inflammatory medicines, antihistamines, or corticosteroids.
• Take medication to suppress your body’s natural immune response.
• Use a topical steroid.
• Take anti-inflammatory medications, such as corticosteroids and antihistamines, to ease swelling and itchiness.
• Light therapy can improve the appearance of your eczema.
• Avoid known triggers that cause a flare-up.

Schedule an eczema consultation in San Antonio or Live Oak, TX