What Is Eczema?
Eczema is a group of skin conditions triggered by allergic reactions or immune system dysfunction, leading to inflammation, redness, and persistent itching. The most common form, atopic dermatitis, often begins in childhood and is linked to allergic responses. Eczema can affect various parts of the body, including the face, hands, neck, and legs. The symptoms often resemble dermatitis with eczema rash appearing as red, dry, and irritated patches. At MCS Dermatology, Dr. Cynthia Abban specializes in identifying the specific causes of eczema to develop personalized eczema treatment plans for patients in Elk Grove Village, IL and the surrounding areas of Des Plaines, Northbrook, and Elgin.
How Is Eczema Treated?
Treatment for eczema rash depends on severity and location. Mild cases can often be managed with over-the-counter creams, including hydrocortisone ointments and antihistamines like Benadryl, to reduce itching and inflammation. More severe cases may require prescription-strength steroid creams, immunomodulators, or oral corticosteroids. For patients with chronic or resistant eczema, ultraviolet light therapy or laser treatments may be recommended to target affected areas. In severe cases where other treatments fail, immunosuppressants may be prescribed to help control the overactive immune response contributing to eczema flare-ups.
What Are the Symptoms of Eczema?
Eczema symptoms can vary in severity and location but commonly include:
- Red, itchy, dry skin: Persistent irritation often appears before the rash develops.
- Eczema on the face, hands, and legs: Common areas for flare-ups, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin.
- Thickened, cracked, or scaly patches: Dry areas that worsen over time without treatment.
- Rashes in skin folds: Often found in the inner creases of the elbows and knees, especially in children.
- Open sores and crusting: Scratched or inflamed areas may develop yellowish or light brown crusts, indicating infection.
- Blisters or pus-filled lesions: Severe cases may lead to fluid-filled eczema rash, requiring medical attention.
Eczema and psoriasis share similarities, but they have distinct characteristics. Eczema typically results from an allergic reaction or weakened immune function, leading to extreme itchiness and dry patches. In contrast, psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes thick, scaly plaques due to rapid skin cell turnover. Psoriasis lesions are often more defined and silver-scaled and may cause burning or stinging, whereas eczema is more commonly associated with intense itching and weeping sores.
MCS Dermatology Reviews
0
Total Reviews
Average Rating
Soothe Itchy, Irritated Skin
If you're struggling with eczema on the face, hands, or other areas, professional care can provide relief. At MCS Dermatology in Elk Grove Village, IL, Dr. Cynthia Abban offers advanced eczema treatment options to help manage symptoms and improve skin health. Schedule a consultation today to find the right treatment plan for your skin condition.