Dr. Monica Chahar, Chief Dermatologist & Director- Skin Décor, New Delhi

Eczema is a skin disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite being frequently associated with children, eczema can also appear in adults, posing serious discomfort and occasionally even triggering depression and anxiety.

Eczema symptoms might differ based on the person and the severity of the ailment. The following are some of the most prevalent signs of adult eczema:

•            Itching: Intense itching is one of the most prevalent signs of eczema and can cause discomfort and even disrupt sleep.

•            Blisters: Small skin blisters that ooze and spread the infection are another symptom of eczema.

•            Crusting: In severe cases, eczema can cause the skin to crust over, which can lead to further itching and discomfort.

•            Redness: The affected area of the skin may appear red and inflamed.

•            Dry, scaly skin: Eczema can cause the skin to become dry and scaly, which can sometimes lead to cracking and bleeding.

Causes:

Eczema has unknown origins; however, it is thought to be brought on by a confluence of genetic and environmental factors. Adults’ most frequent sources of eczema triggers include:

•            Allergens: Exposure to allergens including dust mites, pollen, and pet dander can cause flare-ups of eczema.

•            Irritants include products like soap, detergent, and perfumes that can irritate the skin and cause eczema.

•            Stress: Stress can exacerbate outbreaks of eczema and impair the immune system.

•            Weather: Temperature and humidity variations can cause eczema flare-ups.

•            Diet: Certain foods and beverages, such as dairy products and alcohol, can trigger eczema flare-ups in some people.

•            Inflammatory disorders: Certain medical conditions can cause eczema like atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis etc. This should be evaluated and diagnosed by a dermatologist for right treatment.

Treatment:

There are many treatments which can help manage the symptoms and prevent flare-ups. Some of the most common treatments for eczema in adults include:

•            Topical creams and ointments: Prescription and over-the-counter creams and ointments can help reduce inflammation and itching.

•            Moisturizers: Regularly applying a moisturizer can help prevent the skin from becoming dry and itchy.

•            Wet wrap therapy: Wet wrap therapy involves applying a damp bandage to the affected area of the skin, which can help reduce inflammation and itching.

•            Light therapy: Exposure to certain types of light, such as ultraviolet A (UVA) or ultraviolet B (UVB) light, can help reduce inflammation and itching.

•            Medications: In severe cases, a doctor may prescribe oral medications, such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressants, to help manage eczema symptoms.

To sum up, eczema is a chronic skin condition that can cause significant discomfort and affect a person’s quality of life. While there is no cure for eczema, many treatments can help manage the symptoms and prevent flare-ups. If you are experiencing symptoms of eczema, it is important to consult with a doctor or dermatologist to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.