Eczema is a term for a group of medical conditions that cause the skin to become inflamed or irritated. The most common type of eczema is known as atopic dermatitis, or atopic eczema.

Atopic refers to a group of diseases with an often inherited tendency to develop other allergic conditions, such as asthma and hay fever.

Symptoms

Eczema signs and symptoms vary widely from person to person and include:

• Dry skin
• Itching, which may be severe, especially at night
• Red to brownish-gray patches, especially on the hands, feet, ankles, wrists, neck, upper chest, eyelids, inside the bend of the elbows and knees, and in infants, the face and scalp
• Small, raised bumps, which may leak fluid and crust over when scratched
• Thickened, cracked, scaly skin
• Raw, sensitive, swollen skin from scratching

 When to see a doctor?

• Is so uncomfortable that the condition is affecting sleep and daily activities
• Has a skin infection — look for red streaks, pus, yellow scabs
• Continues to experience symptoms despite trying home remedies

Center for Dermatology at Amber Clinics offers comprehensive treatment for eczema. Consult our Specialist Dermatologists available at Dr. Joseph’s Polyclinic, Karama and Amber Clinics, Rigga for further care.