Eczema
Eczema is a term for several different types of skin swelling. Eczema is also called dermatitis. Most types cause dry, itchy skin and rashes on the face, inside the elbows and behind the knees, and on the hands and feet. Scratching the skin can cause it to turn red, and to swell and itch even more.
Eczema is not contagious. The cause of eczema is unknown. It is likely caused by both genetic and environmental factors. Eczema may get better or worse over time, but it is often a long-lasting disease. People who have it may also develop hay fever and asthma.
The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis. It is most common in babies and children, but adults can have it too. As children who have atopic dermatitis grow older, this problem may get better or go away. But sometimes the skin may stay dry and get irritated easily.
Treatments may include medicines, skin creams, light therapy, and good skin care. You can prevent some types of eczema by avoiding:
- Things that irritate your skin, such as certain soaps, fabrics, and lotions
- Stress
- Things you are allergic to, such as food, pollen, and animals
NIH: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
Physician's Therapeutics Memoranda on Eczema
Improve general health of patient by hygienic measures. See that the diet is simple and substantial. Fats, salted meats, pastry and all indigestible articles of food must be interdicted. See that the excretory functions are properly performed. If anemia or de bility or any constitutional taint is present, treat on general princi ples. In early stages, apply zinc ointment or zinc oxide or oleate as a dusting powder. Later, use more stimulating remedies—ointments of tar, resorcin, green soap, ichthyol, salicylic acid or oil of cade.1