Many people develop it as kids and carry it into adulthood, and there are also instances in which people spontaneously develop eczema as adults. In , the American Academy of Dermatology reported that cases were rising in the U.
Though more recent counts vary, a analysis found that nearly 10 percent of adults worldwide, and only 4 to 8 percent of children, had the condition. It leads a complicated life below the surface, one that researchers have yet to fully unravel.
Register or Log In. The Magazine Shop. Login Register Stay Curious Subscribe. Newsletter Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news. Sign Up. Already a subscriber? Want more? More From Discover. There is some evidence that one type of eczema, atopic dermatitis, may be autoimmune in nature. However, more research is necessary. Dust mites may trigger flare-ups in some people with eczema. We examine the link between dust mites and eczema and how to reduce exposure to them.
Does eczema get better? Causes Prevalence among ethnicities Different stages Types of eczema Treatments and medications When to see a doctor Summary Eczema is a condition that some people outgrow, while others have it throughout adulthood.
What causes eczema? Prevalence of eczema among ethnicities, skin color, and age. Different stages of eczema. Types of eczema. Treatments and medications. When to see a doctor. Latest news Scientists identify new cause of vascular injury in type 2 diabetes. Adolescent depression: Could school screening help? Related Coverage. Can aloe vera gel help treat eczema? Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, Ph.
Does Medicare cover eczema treatment? Is eczema an autoimmune disease? The cause of eczema is multifactorial. Some of these factors are out of your control. As the Cleveland Clinic points out, eczema is caused by:. Gentle skin care, avoidance of triggers, and, if needed, medicated management can help keep symptoms at bay. But you may have eczema, such as atopic dermatitis, throughout your life. Addressing the skin disease with a short- and long-term view will care for your skin and health best.
For example, itch and pain can cause sleep deprivation that has a cascade effect on overall health. That is not a pessimistic view, rather one that can help you take control, manage flare-ups, and stick to a healthy, gentle skin routine that benefits your overall wellness. Taking cool showers after workouts may also help.
Eczema is caused by underlying inflammation. The development of this inflammatory skin condition involves substances that create negative immune reactions. These include various allergens as well as hereditary and environmental factors.
One common cause of eczema is allergies. The subsequent rashes can develop in response to certain allergens, including pollen, pet dander, and foods. Another possible cause of eczema is physical contact with chemicals, fabrics, and dyes to which you may be allergic. The resulting skin rash is called contact dermatitis. Possible culprits include:. You may be especially at risk if a parent or other relative has a history of allergies and related eczema symptoms.
Eczema is treated based on your underlying triggers. A doctor may recommend one or a combination of the following:. Depending on the cause of your eczema flare-up, you may need to take oral allergy medications, topical corticosteroid creams , or both. While steroid creams you apply to your skin are intended for short-term use, you may need to use allergy medicines you take by mouth year-round to help prevent associated symptoms.
Another option is immunosuppressant drugs, which slow down immune responses in the case of severe eczema. Over-the-counter OTC antihistamines may help reduce incidence of eczema. Additionally, these medications maybe help prevent the urge to scratch rashes, especially in children.
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