Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): symptoms, causes, treatment

Eczema in plain language: how to recognize it and what to do

Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a chronic skin inflammation with itch and dryness. It flares and remits. You can control it by combining skin-barrier care, anti-inflammatory therapy, and trigger management.

What it is

Eczema is not contagious. The core problem is a weakened skin barrier plus an overactive immune response. Effective management always includes both treatment and proper daily care.

Symptoms

itch, dryness, redness;

flaking, fissures, sometimes oozing;

infants: face/neck; kids/adults: elbow/knee folds; frequent hand-washing → hands.

How it differs from contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis appears exactly where the irritant/allergen touched the skin and improves once exposure stops. Eczema is wider in distribution and tends to recur.

When to see a doctor urgently

• increasing pain, pus, fever;
• rapid worsening in a child;
• rash on/around eyelids;
• blisters/burning suggesting herpetic infection.

Causes and triggers

Genetics + environment. Worsened by dry air, heat/cold, frequent hot showers, harsh cleansers/fragrances, wool/synthetics against skin, stress, infections; in some children — foods.

Diagnosis

Usually clinical. Tests are done when indicated (e.g., suspected allergy/infection). Dermoscopy and photo-tracking of lesions help assess progress and adjust therapy.

Treatment: step by step

Restore the skin barrier
Emollients (cream/ointment) 1–2× daily and after water; gentle cleansers; 5–7 minute lukewarm showers.

Reduce inflammation
Topical corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors per physician’s plan (potency/duration individualized).

Control itch
Cooling lotions; antihistamines if needed.

Prevent relapses
Maintenance regimens (e.g., intermittent “weekend therapy”), consistent skincare.

When indicated
Narrowband UVB-311 nm phototherapy; systemic therapy only for severe cases under specialist care.

Home care: what truly helps

• Apply emollients generously and regularly (especially right after showering).
• Fragrance-free products; cotton next to skin.
• Humidifier during heating season.
• Wash hands with lukewarm water, moisturize after.
• For kids: cotton gloves at night, short nails.

Avoid: hot baths, harsh soaps, frequent peels, self-prescribing steroid creams.

Prevention & flare control

Keep a trigger diary, plan care for travel/seasonal changes, discuss maintenance regimens for remission with your doctor.

FAQ

Is eczema forever?
Not necessarily. Many children outgrow it; adults can keep it well-controlled with proper care and therapy.

Are steroid creams dangerous?
When potency and duration are chosen correctly, they’re safe and effective. Follow medical guidance.

Does diet help?
Strict exclusions only if a proven food link exists; otherwise you risk harming nutrition without skin benefit.

If symptoms persist or affect your daily life, book an in-person dermatology visit. Early adjustments to care and therapy usually bring quick relief.