Eczema is also known as atopic dermatitis, and it’s a common problem your dermatologist can treat. Drs. David Horvath, Brian Horvath, and Gretchen Kreizenbeck at Horvath Dermatology Associates in Pittsburgh, PA, provide comprehensive dermatology services, including diagnosis and treatment of eczema.

What You Need To Know About Eczema

First, let’s look at some of the causes of eczema, so you will know more about how to prevent eczema symptoms. You can develop eczema symptoms due to:

• Exposure to an allergen
• Chronically dry skin
• Immune system problems
• Chemical exposure and other environmental factors
• Genetic factors and a family history of eczema

Family history and a genetic predisposition to developing eczema are two factors you can’t do anything about. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to prevent eczema. Remember to:

• Avoid exposure to substances you are allergic to
• Don’t touch plants, flowers, and objects you are allergic to
• Avoid harsh skin cleansing products and keep your skin moisturized to prevent dryness
• Wear protective equipment including gloves, safety glasses, and a mask when handling chemicals

If you develop eczema, you may notice:

• Reddish-brown patches on your scalp, face, elbows, chest, knees, ankles, and feet
• Frequent, severe itching which can worsen at night
• Swollen, inflamed, red, raw areas of skin
• Dry, cracked, or scaly patches of skin in different areas of your body
• Bumps on your skin that drain fluid and develop a crust

If you are experiencing mild eczema symptoms, you can try:

• Taking over-the-counter oral or topical antihistamine medications
• Applying calamine lotion to soothe irritated, itching skin
• Applying moisturizer after you take a shower
• Placing cool, wet bandages or dressings on affected areas
• Taking daily oatmeal or baking soda baths
• Wearing cool, loose, breathable clothing

If you are experiencing frequent moderate to severe eczema symptoms, you should seek out the help of your dermatologist, who may recommend:

• Prescription-strength topical and oral antihistamine medications
• Antibiotic medications
• Injectable or oral anti-inflammatory medications
• Medications to relieve itching
• Corticosteroid dressings to relieve itching and inflammation
• Light therapy to reduce or eliminate patches

Want To Know More?

To find out more about preventing eczema symptoms and how your dermatologist can treat eczema, call Drs. David Horvath, Brian Horvath, and Gretchen Kreizenbeck at Horvath Dermatology Associates in Pittsburgh, PA. You can reach them in the office by calling (412) 831-3300, so call today.