It’s possible to treat and limit eczema “flare-ups,” but there sadly isn’t a known cure for this bothersome skin condition.

Our AFC Urgent Care Greenwood team further elaborates on eczema below, so keep reading!

What Exactly Is Eczema?

Eczema—medically known as atopic dermatitis—is a condition that makes your skin red and itchy. It tends to be most common among children, but it can affect people at any age. Most forms of eczema are chronic and will flare up periodically.

It’s one of many types of dermatitis, and it damages the skin barrier function (the “glue” of your skin), which will, in turn, make the skin more sensitive and more prone to infection and dryness. We’ve listed eczema’s common symptoms below.

Common Symptoms of Eczema

• Dry skin
• Itching, which may be severe, especially at night
• Red to brownish-gray patches—especially on the hands, feet, ankles, wrists, neck, upper chest, eyelids, inside the bend of the elbows and knees, and in infants, the face and scalp
• Small, raised bumps, which may leak fluid and crust over when scratched
• Thickened, cracked, scaly skin
• Raw, sensitive, swollen skin from scratching

How Treatable Is Eczema?

It’s treatable, but it’s a stubborn type of skin condition. While eczema itself can’t really be treated, its “flare-ups” can. However, even if treatment of flare-ups is successful, signs and symptoms may still periodically get worse again.

It’s important to recognize the condition early so that you can start treatment. If regular moisturizing and other below-mentioned steps don’t help, your doctor may suggest things like OTC creams, ointments and some prescription medications.

Ways to Limit Eczema Flare-Ups

• Use a humidifier if dry air makes your skin dry.
• Use mild soaps and other products that are free of perfumes, dyes and alcohol. Look for products labeled “fragrance free,” “hypoallergenic” and “for sensitive skin.”
• Moisturize your skin using a cream or ointment. Lotions don’t work as well. Apply several times a day, including after you bathe or shower.
• Use lukewarm water in the tub or shower instead of hot.

Our AFC Urgent Care Greenwood team is here to help you with all kinds of non-emergency medical needs, so don’t hesitate to stop by or give us a call today!