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Eczema – Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

At Western New York Dermatology, we understand the challenges of living with eczema. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing comprehensive care and effective treatments to help you manage your condition, reduce flare-ups, and improve your quality of life.

What is Eczema?

Eczema is a chronic skin condition characterized by persistent itching, redness, inflammation, and irritation. Flare-ups can occur throughout a person’s life, often triggered by environmental factors, allergens, or stress. Eczema affects people of all ages, with young children particularly susceptible. While many outgrow eczema over time, it can persist into adulthood.

eczema treatment

Eczema Causes

While the exact cause of eczema is unknown, factors such as genetics, an over-active immune system, allergens, and stress can contribute to flare-ups. Common eczema triggers include:

  • Dry skin caused by cold weather, low humidity, or frequent washing
  • Allergens such as pollen, pet dander, and dust mites
  • Irritants such as soaps, detergents, perfumes, and other chemicals

Eczema Symptoms

Eczema symptoms vary but often include:

  • Itchy skin
  • Red, inflamed patches of skin
  • Dry, scaly skin
  • Thickened skin

Eczema Treatments

At Western New York Dermatology, we take a personalized approach to managing eczema, focusing on both short-term relief and long-term control. Treatment options include:

  • Topicals such as corticosteroids, moisturizers, and other medicated creams
  • Oral medications like antihistamines or immunosuppressants
  • Light therapy (phototherapy)
  • Lifestyle modifications

Types of Eczema

Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema, often starting in childhood but persisting into adulthood. The development of atopic dermatitis is frequently associated with family history, immune system response, and environmental triggers. Stress and hormonal changes can also cause flare-ups. Flare-ups manifest as red, itchy patches of skin, especially on the face, arms, legs, and skin folds (behind knees, inside elbows).

Dyshidrotic Eczema

Dyshidrotic eczema typically affects the palms of the hands and soles of the feet and is triggered by stress, allergies, or moisture exposure. It manifests as blisters on the sides of the palms, fingers, and feet and may ooze or become painful, followed by dry, cracked skin.

Nummular Eczema

Nummular eczema is characterized by coin-shaped, round patches of irritated skin and is often triggered by dry weather, insect bites, rough fabrics, medications, stress, or allergens. It can occur anywhere on the body but commonly affects the legs.

Tips for Managing Eczema

Living with eczema requires ongoing care, but with the right treatment plan, patients can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups. Since triggers and irritants vary from patient to patient, a custom treatment plan is needed to manage the condition effectively. Our team will work with you to provide short-term relief and develop a long-term management strategy tailored to your needs and triggers.

Eczema Treatment at WNY Dermatology

At WNY Dermatology, our expert team, led by Dr. Michael Nazareth, specializes in diagnosing and treating eczema. We offer personalized care plans tailored to your unique needs, focusing on both short-term relief and long-term management. Using state-of-the-art treatments, we provide effective solutions to help you control eczema and improve your quality of life. Regular follow-ups ensure your treatment plan remains aligned with your evolving needs.

Get in Touch

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