Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Eczema - What You Need To Know

By Daniel Williams


Perhaps you've been noticing irritating, itchy rashes or inflamed patches of dry or oily skin, and wondered what that was all about. Maybe you have one of the various forms of eczema. This is a name that's been given to various conditions of inflamed skin, otherwise called "dermatitis." There is a variety to become aware of, though most experience atopic dermatitis.

You need to know that this is a very common skin disorder, literally hundreds of people in your own town may be affected, if not thousands. It may affect any age group, though babies are most susceptible. Fortunately, of the babies that get eczema, about half of them will be fully cured of the ailment by the time they're three. It also means, on the flip side, that the remaining 50% of babies will suffer throughout their lives with the condition.

It's pretty common for those who get this condition to discover they have inherited their susceptibility. This may not always be the case, since many allergens can also produce the same effects, and those who have asthma and/or seasonal allergies will likely suffer from it more. You simply must investigate your heritage and history in your family with the disease.

Eczema appears in about 20% of all kids, and adult numbers are about 1-2% of the total number of cases. Most folks know someone or will know someone who has or will at some time suffer from the condition.

What, then, are the reasons people get this form of dermatitis? Sadly, the jury's still out on that one. Research is ongoing, and at this point it is believed that the immune function plays a key part. Allergic response also plays a role, but that again is tied to immunity.

There is a form of eczema that is brought on by allergens that come into contact with your skin. These irritants take many forms and may include clothing, detergents and even the type of soap you use. Whatever triggers an allergic response in you - like molds or pollen - can also result in this eruption. Climate changes and seasonal changes will also add to the likelihood of contracting the condition.

You have to really understand the common symptoms that you may be 'used to' by now - such as dry and red skin, or itchy skin - may indicate the presence of this skin condition. Getting yourself seen by a doctor is a great idea and may turn up some interesting causes that you didn't consider. The quicker you can get a diagnosis, the better your chances are of getting better. There's no need to continue to put up with itchiness that can lead later to further, more serious consequences.




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