Health Services
Self Care

Eczema/Atopic Dermatitis

Description
Eczema and atopic dermatitis are synonyms for chronic skin irritation. This irritation is not an allergic reaction, but is a skin hypersensitivity due to hereditary influences. It is a chronic disease characterized by flare-ups and remissions. Fortunately, treatment is usually quite effective and may lead to prolonged periods of remission. Factors which seem to trigger eczema include sweat retention, excessive moisture or dryness of the skin, fatigue and stress. People who have eczema often have, or are prone to develop, allergic asthma or hayfever. Eczema is not an infectious condition, and it occurs in about 3% of the U.S. population.

Symptoms
Initial outbreaks of eczema are usually skin-colored, red or brown raised skin areas which often merge to form large patches. Eczema is characterized by uncontrollable, subconscious scratching. This disease often begins in infancy, where it is typically found on the face or groin. In young children, it is often seen on the inside of the elbow or back of the knee, and in adults may affect the hands, feet, ankle, or groin. Excessive scratching often leads to thickening of the skin, breaks in the skin, flaking, crusts, or scabbing.

Treatment
The primary goal of treatment is to stop the itch-scratch cycle. Any or all of the following treatments may be suggested:

1. Wear loose, non-binding clothing. Cotton is usually recommended, as it allows easy evaporation of sweat; avoid wool clothing, as the sharp fibers may further irritate the skin.

2. Avoid taking frequent hot baths or showers. Using harsh soaps, chemicals, or detergents may aggravate eczema by drying the skin.

3. Soak in a medicated bath using starch, colloidal oatmeal (e. g. Avveno) or bath oil (e.g. Alpha-keri) to help soothe irritated nerve endings and reduce the risk of bacterial infection.

4. Steroid (cortisone) creams may be used to help reduce itching, but should not be used if the skin is broken or infected. Overuse of cortisone creams may lead to permanent changes in the skin such as premature aging and atrophy of support layers.

5. Antihistamines taken orally may be used to help control itching; they may also have a sedative effect.

6. Life-style changes which promote good stress management and good general health are necessary is some cases.

More Information/Questions
Messiah College students may call Student Health Service at (717) 691-6035 for more information.