Dermatitis is the medical term for any inflammation of the skin.
Eczema is one type of dermatitis.
Symptoms of eczema are redness and flaking of the skin.
Blistering may also occur.
After so long, the skin will become thick and change color.
There are several different types of eczema.
A very common type is housewife's hand eczema.
When people use various household detergents without protecting their hands with latex gloves, the skin on their hands is often damaged and becomes dry, rough and red.
This is particularly noticeable in the knuckle area.
After prolonged exposure, their skin may thicken, start to crack, flake and itch.
People whose hands are exposed to certain chemicals at their workplace may encounter the same problem.
Both adults and infants are susceptible to seborrheic eczema but the effects are different.
In adults there are scales over red patches.
These commonly show up on the scalp in the form of dandruff.
But red, flaky, itchy patches may also appear on the folds from the side of the nose to the mouth.
It may occur on other parts of the body.
Both men and women are susceptible.
Seborrheic eczema may last for several months before disappearing on its own.
It is quite common and tends to run in families.
The form that affects infants is called cradle cap.
The cause is unknown.
Atopic eczema appears as a rash.
The rash is accompanied by intense itching which results in scratching.
The scratching intensifies the rash and the itching worsens.
It is sometimes associated with an allergy.
Irritant eczema involves redness and flaking particularly on the legs.
It particularly affects the elderly but anyone with dry skin is susceptible.
People who have chronic swelling of the feet, varicose veins or circulatory problems frequently contract stasis eczema.
There will be redness, swelling and itching in the affected area.
However, if the problem is allowed to persist and the swelling is not treated, the rash may crust and leak fluid.
This can result in an infection.
If there is any injury to the affected area, ulceration can also occur.
Eczema can often be prevented by avoiding hot showers, using a high fat soap, and applying moisturizers to the skin.
When the eczema is caused by exposure to chemicals and detergents, wearing latex gloves while washing dishes and cleaning will be effective.
If an unknown irritant is involved a doctor can perform patch tests to identify the allergen.
Older people need to be aware that their skin becomes more susceptible to irritation as they age so they need to be more vigilant in the choice of soaps and creams.
Self-treatment is usually effective with eczema.
There are medicated shampoos available for dandruff.
Hydrocortisone creams are available over the counter and will control most itching.
Antihistamine tablets also relieve itching.
Moisturizers can be purchased at cosmetic counters, in all drug stores and many grocery stores.
Shampoos, creams, and tablets should always be used in accordance with the directions.
One should also avoid the irritants that trigger an attack.
A doctor's help may be required to identify these.