Eczema – Types & Causes

Eczema is a type of dermatitis which causes inflammation of the upper layer of the skin. There are no secrets to getting rid of eczema; there are quite a few things one can do to help rid the pain and discomfort that comes with this skin condition. People of all ages suffer from eczema one time or another in their lives; it currently affects over 40 million people. Although eczema can sometimes look unpleasant, it is not contagious. With treatment the inflammation of eczema can be reduced. However, the skin will always be sensitive to flare-ups and need extra care.

The term 'Eczema' is a Greek word (Ee means out, and Zeo means boil). The whole word implies 'boil out'. The Hindustani name for eczema is Chambal.

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Types of Eczema

Atopic eczema is one type of eczema. Atopic eczema is also referred to as atopic dermatitis. Atopic refers to the skin becoming inflamed and can also include the nose and the linings of the lungs. Atopic eczema like other allergies is often hereditary. Other allergies that are often passed down are asthma, hay fever and sensitive skin. It is common that if one person in the family has atopic eczema, then other family members (brothers, sisters, aunts, mothers, fathers and uncles) will also have a similar or the same skin condition.

Dyshidrotic eczema: irritation of the skin on the palms of hands and soles of the feet characterized by clear, deep blisters that itch and burn

Adult seborrheic eczema:This type of eczema will usually affect the people that are between mid twenties and forty year s of age. Adult seborrheic eczema is often confused for dandruff because the scalp is a common place for it to begin to show signs. The thing is that this type of eczema will begin to creep down the head and on to the torso.

Neurodermatitis: scaly patches of the skin on the head, lower legs, wrists, or forearms caused by a localized itch (such as an insect bite) that become intensely irritated when scratched

Nummular eczema: coin-shaped patches of irritated skin-most common on the arms, back, buttocks, and lower legs-that may be crusted, scaling, and extremely itchy

Causes of Eczema

Eczema is caused by many reasons like allergic reactions from certain food types; also from frequent temperature changes. Direct contact with an offending substance such as soap, detergent, cleanser, perfumes, chemicals or any other allergen can cause an outbreak on the skin. This is caused by direct contact between the skin and the substance, which might be adetergent, soap, diesel or engine oil, strong chemical, cleaner, etc. Eczema can also be caused by contact with substances that the body has become allergic to, called allergic contact dermatitis. This type commonly involves nickel, poison ivy, cosmetics, and rubber products. Infantile eczema often affects young babies, and is caused by moisture from drool or inflammation of the scalp (cradle cap).