Eczema
by Davinder from Eczemavoice.com

Eczema, or dermatitis as it is sometimes called, is a group of skin conditions that can affect all age groups. Up to one fifth of all children of school age have eczema, along with about one in twelve of the adult population. Although it can sometimes look unpleasant, eczema is not contagious.

There could be many different causes of eczema;

Hereditary, particularly for atopic eczema

Allergic reactions

Diet

Stress

Environment

Atopic eczema is the common form of eczema and is closely linked with asthma and hayfever. It can affect both children and adults, and usually runs in families. One of the most common symptoms of atopic eczema is its itchiness.

Allergic contact dermatitis Develops when the body's immune system reacts against a substance in contact with the skin.

Irritant contact dermatitis is a type of eczema caused by frequent contact with everyday substances, such as detergents and chemicals, which are irritating to the skin. It most commonly occurs on the hands of adults and can be prevented by avoiding the irritants and keeping the skin moisturised.

Seborrhoeic eczema/cradle cap is a common condition affecting babies under one year old, the exact cause of which is unknown. Also referred to as cradle cap, it usually starts on the scalp or the nappy area and quickly spreads. Although this type of eczema looks unpleasant, it is not sore or itchy and does not cause the baby to feel uncomfortable or unwell. Normally this type of eczema will clear in just a few months, though the use of moisturising creams and bath oils can help to speed this along.

Adult seborrhoeic eczema characteristically affects adults between the ages of 20 and 40. It is usually seen on the scalp as mild dandruff, but can spread to the face, ears and chest. The skin becomes red, inflamed and starts to flake. The condition is believed to be caused by a yeast growth.

Discoid eczema Is usually found in adults and appears suddenly as a few coin shaped areas of red skin, normally on the trunk or lower legs. They become itchy and can weep fluid. It can be found in babies but this is rare.

There is no known cure for eczema although around 70% of babies do grow out of it.

When dealing with eczema it is important to have a strict regime involving emollients (moisturising creams). Applying these creams regularly will stop the skin from drying out and so prevent the itch-scratch cycle. For more severe conditions steroid creams, with varying degrees of strength, can be prescribed.

In a recent eczemavoice poll over 50% of those voting said they applied emollients up to 3 times a day. For severe conditions this would not be enough.

The role of CAM in the treatment of eczema seems to be growing given peoples frustration and in some cases, concerns, with traditional approaches. People are keen to test homeopathy, acupuncture, Chinese medicine and special diets.

For more information including;

Hints and tips in the management of eczema

An extensive discussion board dedicated to eczema - believed to be one of the first

A directory of useful resources and links

Visit www.eczemavoice.com