Eczema

What is Eczema (Dermatitis)?

Eczema is a skin condition that can cause the affected skin to swell, discolor, and cause dryness and itchiness, sometimes even blisters. Dermatologists can diagnose you with eczema, or dermatitis, as well as the type of eczema you may be suffering from.

Atopic Dermatitis

This inherited form of dermatitis is commonly found on children and babies, especially within their first year. Their skin may start to become itchy, often causing a rash to form. These rashes can appear on the scalp, forehead, and face, and will be in the form of dry and scaly patches. In older children, it is more localized in the folds of the body. If these rashes are not properly treated, they can potentially lead to a skin infection, and can be long lasting. The patient will usually outgrow the rash for a number of years and then it returns in different forms in adulthood.

Contact Dermatitis

Objects that touch our skin can also cause eczema, which is known as contact dermatitis, and can lead to an allergic reaction or a skin irritation. This reaction can frequently happen to anyone who is exposed to nickel, latex, or are simply experiencing an allergic reaction to something that his or her body is not used to.

• Allergic contact dermatitis - This is an allergic skin reaction to substances such as poison ivy, latex, makeup, and jewelry.
• Irritant contact dermatitis - This is a common reaction when irritants (like bleach, soap or pepper spray) cause a rash where they contact the skin. Predisposing factors include dry skin or irritated skin, such as with cracked hands, dry lips, or from an acid burn. This reaction can also happen if you spend lots of time washing your hands, which can cause skin to crack and dry up.

Dyshidrotic Dermatitis

This form of dermatitis is located on your hands and feet and can cause burning and itching sensations, potentially leading to a blistering rash. Typically, it looks like deep-set itchy microblisters on the palm or sides of the fingers.

Neurodermatitis

This form of dermatitis develops when the nerve endings in your skin becomes irritated, triggering severe itching.

Nummular Dermatitis

Nummular dermatitis characteristically forms coin-shaped circles on the trunk or extremities. They can last for weeks, or even months.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

This form of dermatitis is a common skin disease that can come in the form of a red and swollen rash, with a white crusty scale on its surface. Although this skin condition is most often referred to as cradle cap in infants, seborrheic dermatitis can also occur in adults.

Stasis Dermatitis

This form of dermatitis occurs when the veins in your legs have difficulty sending blood back to the heart, which then causes it to pool into the legs, ultimately affecting the color of your skin and leading to a rash.

Call Dermatology Specialists of Illinois at (844) 307-7546 to schedule a consultation.