Eczema
Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that causes the skin to become dry, cracked and itchy. It happens when the skin is unable to retain moisture. The most common type of eczema is called atopic eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) and it is more common in children than adults, often developing before the age of one. However, adults can also develop this skin problem.
- Figures from the National Eczema Society suggest that one in five children and one in ten adults in the UK have eczema
- Three-quarters of children grow out of it by the time they are teenagers
- It can run in families, and is more common in people who also suffer from asthma and hay fever
Eczema symptoms
Eczema causes skin to become dry, inflamed, itchy and sore.
Some people develop small patches of dry skin whereas others experience widespread inflamed skin all over the body.
In severe cases, eczema can make it worse, causing the skin to split. In turn, this increases the chances of infection.
The symptoms of atopic eczema may be less noticeable at times, while at other points they may become more severe. This is known as a flare-up.
Eczema causes
The precise cause of this medical condition is unknown, but it is not believed to be the result of one single thing. Eczema is more common in people who suffer from allergies. In some cases, food allergies may be a factor, especially in young children who experience severe eczema. For this reason, your pharmacist or doctor may ask you to keep a food diary to see if certain foods are making your symptoms worse.
The condition can run in families, and it often develops alongside other health issues, such as hay fever and asthma. Its symptoms can be triggered by irritants such as soaps and detergents, and factors such as stress and the weather can also play a role.
Eczema treatments
Our fully qualified expert pharmacists will be able to give you information and advice on the range of treatments available for eczema. They include:
Emoilients
These are moisturising treatments that are used on a daily basis to treat dry skin. They are applied directly to the skin to cover it with a protective layer and to trap moisture. Emollients can help to soothe the symptoms of eczema and reduce the risk of flare-ups. They are available in different forms, including lotions, creams, ointments and sprays.
Steroid creams
These creams, which are also called topical corticosteroids, are a form of steroid medicine that you apply to the skin directly. They help to reduce irritation and inflammation.
Fungal treatments
Fungal infections are common in eczema sufferers. If your pharmacist suspects you may have one of these infections, they could recommend fungal treatments. For example, if you have an infection caused by candida, a type of yeast, you may be advised to take a cream that contains clotrimazole. If you have an infection caused by tinea, also known as ringworm, you may be advised to use a miconazole cream.
Antibiotics
If your eczema becomes infected by bacteria, you may be advised to use an antibiotic cream and/or oral antibiotics.
Self-care techniques
Your pharmacist may also advise you to use certain self-care techniques, such as avoiding potential triggers and reducing scratching.
Book an eczema pharmacy appointment today
Our fully qualified healthcare experts are here to help you if you or your child suffer from eczema. We provide consultation appointments and treatments for eczema and many other common health conditions. Our expert pharmacists provide clinical advice and will recommend the most suitable treatment for you.
So, for information, advice and eczema treatment, book a pharmacy appointment with us today. We’re here to make accessing healthcare quicker, easier and more convenient.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Triggers are varied and specific to the individual but can include exposure to irritants, allergies, hormonal changes, wearing certain fabrics or other environmental factors.
During your appointment, our qualified health professionals will discuss your possible triggers and the treatment options available to you.
There is no cure for eczema and it is usually a long-term condition However, with the right treatment many sufferers find that their symptoms improve significantly over time.
In some cases, eczema can clear up completely as children get older.
Eczema is a particularly individual condition. Patches of dry skin can appear on any part of the body, but atopic eczema is especially common on the hands, insides of the elbows, backs of the knees and insides of the elbows, as well as on the face and scalp of children.
Pharmacy+Health makes it simpler and quicker to get the treatment you need. Find out more about the cost of a consultation on our Eczema Service page.