What Exactly is Eczema?

Could you be dealing with eczema? Find out the telltale signs. 

Dealing with rough, red scaly patch of skin that seems to come and go? If so, you could be dealing with a common skin condition known as eczema. Eczema is a non-contagious disease that often appears in childhood. Some people with eczema will grow out of their symptoms while others will require monitoring and treatment from our Glendora, CA, dermatologist Dr. Amarpaul Sidhu.

What is eczema? 

This skin condition, which results in red, itchy patches, comes in many different forms. In fact, there are different types of eczema including,

• Atopic dermatitis
• Contact dermatitis
• Dyshidrotic eczema
• Hand eczema
• Neurodermatitis
• Nummular eczema
• Stasis dermatitis

When should I see a doctor? 

If you notice red, itchy patches of skin that don’t seem to be going away then it’s time to turn to our skin doctor for a checkup. Just by examining the skin our dermatologists can easily determine if you have eczema or not. Of course, it’s also important to be able to determine what is triggering your symptoms. You should maintain a journal that includes,

• Your diet
• What products you use (from detergents to skin body washes)
• Your environment
• Your stress levels

There are many things that can impact or trigger your eczema symptoms. Knowing your triggers can also help us create a more effective treatment plan.

What can trigger eczema flare-ups? 

There are a variety of things that could cause eczema flare-ups including,

• Stress
• Allergies (e.g. dust mites; pollen)
• Certain foods (e.g. nuts; dairy; gluten)
• Perfumes, detergents and fragrances
• Cold air or hot weather
• Wearing clothes made with synthetic fibers (e.g. wool)

With offices in Glendora and Rancho Cucamonga, CA, Foothill Dermatology Medical Center provides premiere dermatological care to patients of all ages. If you think you’re dealing with eczema give us a call today at (626) 852-3376 or (909) 483-0008 to schedule an evaluation.