What is Eczema and What Causes it?

Eczema is a common skin condition that produces uncomfortable symptoms like dry, flaky skin, rashes, redness, and irritation. It can cause extreme itchiness, pain, and discomfort, to the point where people cannot perform their daily activities. Eczema is frequently seen in young children and may be accompanied by asthma and allergens – this is known as the “atopic triad”. While it is not a serious or contagious disease, it can be quite distressing and frustrating. To reduce the potential severity of eczema, it is important to understand the causes of the condition and how to prevent them.

Common Causes of Eczema

There are many different reasons that a person may develop eczema, but the most common causes include genetics, allergies, and environmental factors.

Genetics: Individuals with a family history of eczema, asthma, or hay fever are more likely to develop eczema. This is due to the fact that people who have eczema are typically more prone to developing allergies such as pollen and pet dander, as well as irritation caused by certain fabrics and soaps.

Allergens: Many people with eczema suffer from allergies to certain foods or environmental factors, such as dust, pollen, molds, and so on. People with eczema may develop inflammation and redness when exposed to these allergens. This is why it is important to know what specific allergens have the potential to trigger eczema.

Environmental Factors: People with eczema are often more sensitive to environmental factors such as heat, cold, and dryness. When temperatures abruptly change, especially during the winter months, or when humidity levels are too low, it can cause skin to become dry and irritated. In addition, contact with harsh soaps and detergents, or other irritating substances can also cause eczema to occur.

Lifestyle Habits: Poor lifestyle habits such as inadequate sleep, excessive consumption of sugar, coffee and alcohol consumption can also increase susceptibility to eczema. Stress and emotional turmoil can also bring on eczema flare-ups.

Treating Eczema

While there is no cure for eczema, there are various treatments that can help to reduce the severity of the symptoms. These include topical creams and ointments to reduce itching and discomfort, as well as lifestyle modifications to reduce exposure to irritants and allergens. Identifying and avoiding the common triggers can help to reduce flare-ups and minimize the symptoms of eczema. It is important to talk to your doctor or dermatologist to find out the best course of treatment for your individual case.