An estimated 31.6 million Americans deal with the uncomfortable effects of eczema.
Are you one of them? If you or your child is suffering from itchy, red, and irritated skin, eczema could be the likely culprit.
But, did you know there are different types of eczema? If you don’t realize which type you have, you may not understand what’s causing it or how to treat it.
Keep reading for a closer look at the different types of eczema and how to treat them.
Contact Dermatitis
One of the most common forms of eczema is contact dermatitis. It occurs when your skin comes in direct contact with a substance and then has an allergic reaction as a result.
You may experience contact dermatitis when using certain perfumes, soaps, or jewelry. Usually, the reaction will clear up on its own over the course of a few weeks if you avoid contact with the substance.
Nummular Eczema
Nummular, or discoid eczema, looks like irritated, circular reactions on your skin. The circular shape often leads to it being misdiagnosed as a more serious issue, like ringworm.
If you notice red, itchy circular patches on your skin, it’s best to get it checked out by a medical professional, just in case. This type of eczema may be caused by scrapes, insect bites, or burns. Or, it can develop as a result of dry skin.
Typically, it needs to be treated with corticosteroids and antibiotics.
Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis often occurs in children, and it is a chronic condition that flares up occasionally. Fortunately, around half of all children with eczema eventually outgrow it.
While there’s no cure for atopic dermatitis, you can use over-the-counter medications to relieve itching. And, regularly moisturizing your skin may also help.
Stasis Dermatitis
Stasis dermatitis results in itchy inflammation on the lower part of the legs. This is the result of poor circulation and typically occurs in people over the age of 50.
Wearing compression socks to improve circulation and elevating your legs can help relieve the symptoms of stasis dermatitis.
Neurodermatitis
Like the other types of eczema, neurodermatitis begins with an itchy patch of skin. But, with this type, the more you scratch, the more it itches. As a result, your skin will start to become thick and almost scaly.
You can use over-the-counter or prescription medications to help relieve the itching and break the cycle of continuous itching and scratching.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis occurs on areas of the body that are oily. Most often, it’s on your scalp, resulting in red, itchy patches that lead to dandruff.
You can use a dandruff-specific shampoo or another gentle soap to reduce the oiliness and help treat the condition.
Dyshidrotic Eczema
If you’ve noticed itchy, small blisters on your hands or feet, you might be suffering from dyshidrotic eczema. It usually occurs as a result of moist palms and can be brought on by stress.
Applying topical cream can help relieve the symptoms, but if you have a fungal infection on top of it, you may need stronger medication.
We Treat All the Different Types of Eczema
If you are suffering from painful, uncomfortable, or itchy skin, it’s likely that you have developed one of the different types of eczema. The team at Emerald Coast Urgent Care is here to provide you with treatment and relief.
Not sure what to expect? Find out everything you need to know before your first visit to our office.
