What are the symptoms of eczema in the scalp? How can it be treated? What causes eczema in the scalp? Get answers to these questions and more in this detailed guide.

Types of Scalp Eczema

Eczema can affect the skin anywhere on your body, including the scalp. There are several types of eczema that can manifest on the scalp:

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic form of eczema that occurs in oily areas of the skin, including the scalp, face, and back. It is one of the most common skin conditions affecting the scalp, along with psoriasis. Seborrheic dermatitis requires continual care and can flare up at times.

Cradle Cap

Cradle cap is a type of seborrheic dermatitis that occurs in infants. Babies may develop scaly or greasy patches on their heads during their first months of life. Cradle cap generally clears up on its own within 6 months to 1 year, but parents should speak with a pediatrician if concerned.

Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic form of eczema that can appear on the scalp as well as other parts of the body. This can be a lifelong condition and is often diagnosed in young children. It is the most common form of eczema.

Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin reacts to something in the environment. The symptoms on the scalp may be caused by a reaction to an allergen or irritant.

Symptoms of Scalp Eczema

The symptoms of scalp eczema will depend on the specific type of dermatitis present. Some common symptoms include:

Seborrheic Dermatitis

• Scaly patches that cause yellow or white flakes (dandruff)
• Redness
• Itchiness
• Greasy appearance

Atopic Dermatitis

• Dry skin
• Redness
• Inflammation
• Itchiness

Contact Dermatitis

• Redness
• Blisters or sores
• Burning sensation
• Itchiness

Causes and Risk Factors of Scalp Eczema

The underlying causes and risk factors for scalp eczema vary depending on the type:

Seborrheic Dermatitis

In seborrheic dermatitis, the immune system can overreact to a yeast that grows on the skin. Risk factors include age (peaks in infancy, puberty, and adulthood) and gender (males are more likely to have it).

Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is often linked to family history and environmental factors. Risk factors include age (often diagnosed in young children but can occur at any age) and gender (females are more likely to have it).

Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis occurs due to a reaction to an allergen or irritant in the environment. Risk factors include regular exposure to irritants and preexisting medical conditions that affect the immune or nervous system.

Triggers for Scalp Eczema Flare-ups

Certain triggers can cause scalp eczema symptoms to worsen or flare up. These triggers vary depending on the type of dermatitis:

Seborrheic Dermatitis

• Stress
• Illness
• Hormonal changes

Atopic Dermatitis

• Dry or cold weather
• Stress
• Allergens

Contact Dermatitis

• Harsh chemicals
• Fragrances
• Hair and skin care products

Treating Scalp Eczema

The treatment for scalp eczema will depend on the type and severity of the condition. Some options include:

Home Remedies

Lifestyle changes like regularly washing the hair, avoiding harsh products, and managing stress can help alleviate symptoms of scalp eczema.

Over-the-Counter Medications

Mild cases of scalp eczema may be treated with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory creams, shampoos, or moisturizers.

Prescription Treatments

More severe or persistent cases of scalp eczema may require prescription medications, such as topical corticosteroids or antifungal treatments, under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

When to Seek Medical Attention

It’s important to speak with a healthcare provider if you are experiencing persistent or severe symptoms of scalp eczema. They can help diagnose the specific type of dermatitis and recommend the appropriate treatment plan.

By understanding the types, symptoms, causes, and treatment options for scalp eczema, you can better manage this condition and find relief for your symptoms.

Symptoms, Treatment, Causes, and More

Eczema can affect the skin anywhere on your body, including the scalp. You may have seborrheic, atopic, or contact dermatitis if you’re experiencing the symptom of an itchy scalp.

Irritation on your scalp may be a sign of eczema. Eczema, also called dermatitis, is the name for a group of conditions that cause the skin to become itchy, inflamed, or have a rash-like appearance.

This condition affects your skin, and there are several types that may affect your scalp. Symptoms vary based on the type you have. Some will disappear with treatment, while others are chronic and require long-term observation and management.

Speak with a doctor to confirm the cause of your eczema as well as to rule out other conditions that may be causing the symptoms.

Keep reading to learn more about what may be causing your eczema and how to find relief.

There are different types of dermatitis that may appear on your scalp. These are seborrheic, atopic, and contact.

Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic dermatitis that occurs in oily areas of your skin, including the scalp, face, and back. It is one of the most common skin conditions on the scalp, along with psoriasis. Seborrheic dermatitis requires continual care and can flare at times.

Cradle cap

Cradle cap is a type of seborrheic dermatitis in infants. Your infant may develop scaly or greasy patches on their head during their first months of life.

It generally clears up on its own within 6 months to 1 year, but you should speak with their pediatrician if you’re concerned. There are treatments for cradle cap that could help clear up the condition.

Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic form of dermatitis that can appear on the scalp but also affects other parts of the body. This can be a lifelong condition and is often diagnosed in young children. It is the most common form of eczema.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis occurs when your skin reacts from contact with something around you. You may need to treat the active rash, but you should be able to manage the reaction once you identify the trigger causing the symptoms and avoid further contact with it.

Symptoms will depend on the type of dermatitis you have. You may need to speak with a doctor to diagnose the dermatitis, as some symptoms overlap.

Symptoms of each type of scalp eczema include:

Dermatitis on the scalp can occur for a variety of reasons:

• In seborrheic dermatitis, your immune system can overreact to a yeast that grows on your skin.
• In atopic dermatitis, you may develop the condition based on your family history and environmental factors.
• In contact dermatitis, the symptoms on your skin occur because of a reaction to an allergen or irritant.

Risk factors and triggers for your scalp eczema will depend on the type of dermatitis causing your symptoms. Risk factors increase your likelihood of developing a certain type of dermatitis. Triggers cause symptoms to flare.

Risk factors based on type of scalp dermatitis

Triggers based on type of scalp dermatitis

One study found that the most common irritants for contact eczema on the scalp were:

• nickel
• cobalt
• balsam of Peru
• fragrance

Treatments for scalp eczema will vary based on the type you have. You may be able to treat it at home with different hygiene practices and by changing hair products, or you may need to see a doctor to clear up and manage your symptoms.

Keep in mind that seborrheic dermatitis and atopic dermatitis can be lifelong conditions. Contact dermatitis should go away once you remove the element causing your symptoms.

Lifestyle changes

How you treat your hair and scalp at home can reduce dermatitis symptoms. These techniques may be useful for your scalp dermatitis:

• Wash your hair regularly.
• Stop using any products that may irritate your skin.
• Use gentle shampoos and conditioners without fragrance or irritating chemicals.
• Avoid too-hot baths and showers.
• Moisturize your scalp with over-the-counter creams, coconut oil, or baby oil overnight.
• Avoid the hot setting of a hair dryer.

You should also make sure to get enough sleep and reduce stress to avoid triggering seborrheic and atopic dermatitis.

Shampoos and hair products

There are several over-the-counter or prescription hair products that may help seborrheic dermatitis:

• salicylic acid and tar preparation products to remove scales
• dandruff shampoos, which may contain zinc pyrithione, salicylic acid, sulfur, coal tar, selenium sulfide, or ketoconazole
• antifungal shampoos

Be careful when selecting shampoos for your hair if you have atopic or contact dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis causes sensitive skin. A certain ingredient might cause contact dermatitis or further irritate your skin.

Consider any additional hair products when managing your scalp dermatitis. Conditioners, gels, hair sprays, and hair accessories may all trigger symptoms. Be mindful about what products you use and eliminate any that may trigger dermatitis symptoms.

Medications

Your scalp dermatitis may require medication to relieve symptoms.

Seborrheic dermatitis can be treated with:

• over-the-counter or prescription corticosteroid creams or other topical steroids
• combination topical steroid/salicylic acid product
• medicated shampoos
• oral antifungal medications

Contact dermatitis can be treated with:

• antihistamines
• topical corticosteroids
• oral steroids

Atopic dermatitis can be treated with:

• topical steroids like corticosteroids
• biologics
• emollients
• antihistamines
• nonsteroidal topicals (such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus)
• phototherapy
• oral immunosuppressive medications

If your scalp is infected, a doctor will prescribe an antibiotic in topical or oral form.

Reach out to a doctor if your condition worsens or appears infected.

Symptoms of infection include:

• severe itchiness
• painful, tender, or very warm skin
• skin swelling
• new burning sensations
• blistered skin
• fluid drainage
• white or yellow pus

Your doctor will examine your skin, discuss your medical history, and ask about any other symptoms and possible causes. The visit may include tests, too.

There are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of flare-ups.

If you aren’t sure what type of scalp condition you’re experiencing, contact a doctor. They can work with you to identify the type and establish a set of preventive methods tailored to your needs.

Tips for preventing flare-ups

• Learn what factors may contribute to your scalp symptoms, and limit your contact or avoid them entirely.
• Wash your hair with warm — not hot or cold — water. Both hot and cold water can dry out your scalp and cause irritation.
• Use gentle shampoos, conditioners, styling creams, gels, and even hair dye. If you can, choose fragrance-free versions.
• If stress is a trigger, speak with a doctor about using stress-reduction techniques. This may mean breathing exercises, meditation, or journaling.
• Avoid scratching if you’re having a flare-up. This can make your symptoms worse.

Was this helpful?

Although atopic dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis can be chronic conditions, there are many options available to successfully manage your symptoms and get relief.

After your initial flare-up is under control, you may go weeks, months, or even years without experiencing any symptoms.

Symptoms, Treatment, Causes, and More

Eczema can affect the skin anywhere on your body, including the scalp. You may have seborrheic, atopic, or contact dermatitis if you’re experiencing the symptom of an itchy scalp.

Irritation on your scalp may be a sign of eczema. Eczema, also called dermatitis, is the name for a group of conditions that cause the skin to become itchy, inflamed, or have a rash-like appearance.

This condition affects your skin, and there are several types that may affect your scalp. Symptoms vary based on the type you have. Some will disappear with treatment, while others are chronic and require long-term observation and management.

Speak with a doctor to confirm the cause of your eczema as well as to rule out other conditions that may be causing the symptoms.

Keep reading to learn more about what may be causing your eczema and how to find relief.

There are different types of dermatitis that may appear on your scalp. These are seborrheic, atopic, and contact.

Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic dermatitis that occurs in oily areas of your skin, including the scalp, face, and back. It is one of the most common skin conditions on the scalp, along with psoriasis. Seborrheic dermatitis requires continual care and can flare at times.

Cradle cap

Cradle cap is a type of seborrheic dermatitis in infants. Your infant may develop scaly or greasy patches on their head during their first months of life.

It generally clears up on its own within 6 months to 1 year, but you should speak with their pediatrician if you’re concerned. There are treatments for cradle cap that could help clear up the condition.

Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic form of dermatitis that can appear on the scalp but also affects other parts of the body. This can be a lifelong condition and is often diagnosed in young children. It is the most common form of eczema.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis occurs when your skin reacts from contact with something around you. You may need to treat the active rash, but you should be able to manage the reaction once you identify the trigger causing the symptoms and avoid further contact with it.

Symptoms will depend on the type of dermatitis you have. You may need to speak with a doctor to diagnose the dermatitis, as some symptoms overlap.

Symptoms of each type of scalp eczema include:

Dermatitis on the scalp can occur for a variety of reasons:

• In seborrheic dermatitis, your immune system can overreact to a yeast that grows on your skin.
• In atopic dermatitis, you may develop the condition based on your family history and environmental factors.
• In contact dermatitis, the symptoms on your skin occur because of a reaction to an allergen or irritant.

Risk factors and triggers for your scalp eczema will depend on the type of dermatitis causing your symptoms. Risk factors increase your likelihood of developing a certain type of dermatitis. Triggers cause symptoms to flare.

Risk factors based on type of scalp dermatitis

Triggers based on type of scalp dermatitis

One study found that the most common irritants for contact eczema on the scalp were:

• nickel
• cobalt
• balsam of Peru
• fragrance

Treatments for scalp eczema will vary based on the type you have. You may be able to treat it at home with different hygiene practices and by changing hair products, or you may need to see a doctor to clear up and manage your symptoms.

Keep in mind that seborrheic dermatitis and atopic dermatitis can be lifelong conditions. Contact dermatitis should go away once you remove the element causing your symptoms.

Lifestyle changes

How you treat your hair and scalp at home can reduce dermatitis symptoms. These techniques may be useful for your scalp dermatitis:

• Wash your hair regularly.
• Stop using any products that may irritate your skin.
• Use gentle shampoos and conditioners without fragrance or irritating chemicals.
• Avoid too-hot baths and showers.
• Moisturize your scalp with over-the-counter creams, coconut oil, or baby oil overnight.
• Avoid the hot setting of a hair dryer.

You should also make sure to get enough sleep and reduce stress to avoid triggering seborrheic and atopic dermatitis.

Shampoos and hair products

There are several over-the-counter or prescription hair products that may help seborrheic dermatitis:

• salicylic acid and tar preparation products to remove scales
• dandruff shampoos, which may contain zinc pyrithione, salicylic acid, sulfur, coal tar, selenium sulfide, or ketoconazole
• antifungal shampoos

Be careful when selecting shampoos for your hair if you have atopic or contact dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis causes sensitive skin. A certain ingredient might cause contact dermatitis or further irritate your skin.

Consider any additional hair products when managing your scalp dermatitis. Conditioners, gels, hair sprays, and hair accessories may all trigger symptoms. Be mindful about what products you use and eliminate any that may trigger dermatitis symptoms.

Medications

Your scalp dermatitis may require medication to relieve symptoms.

Seborrheic dermatitis can be treated with:

• over-the-counter or prescription corticosteroid creams or other topical steroids
• combination topical steroid/salicylic acid product
• medicated shampoos
• oral antifungal medications

Contact dermatitis can be treated with:

• antihistamines
• topical corticosteroids
• oral steroids

Atopic dermatitis can be treated with:

• topical steroids like corticosteroids
• biologics
• emollients
• antihistamines
• nonsteroidal topicals (such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus)
• phototherapy
• oral immunosuppressive medications

If your scalp is infected, a doctor will prescribe an antibiotic in topical or oral form.

Reach out to a doctor if your condition worsens or appears infected.

Symptoms of infection include:

• severe itchiness
• painful, tender, or very warm skin
• skin swelling
• new burning sensations
• blistered skin
• fluid drainage
• white or yellow pus

Your doctor will examine your skin, discuss your medical history, and ask about any other symptoms and possible causes. The visit may include tests, too.

There are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of flare-ups.

If you aren’t sure what type of scalp condition you’re experiencing, contact a doctor. They can work with you to identify the type and establish a set of preventive methods tailored to your needs.

Tips for preventing flare-ups

• Learn what factors may contribute to your scalp symptoms, and limit your contact or avoid them entirely.
• Wash your hair with warm — not hot or cold — water. Both hot and cold water can dry out your scalp and cause irritation.
• Use gentle shampoos, conditioners, styling creams, gels, and even hair dye. If you can, choose fragrance-free versions.
• If stress is a trigger, speak with a doctor about using stress-reduction techniques. This may mean breathing exercises, meditation, or journaling.
• Avoid scratching if you’re having a flare-up. This can make your symptoms worse.

Was this helpful?

Although atopic dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis can be chronic conditions, there are many options available to successfully manage your symptoms and get relief.

After your initial flare-up is under control, you may go weeks, months, or even years without experiencing any symptoms.

Treatment of eczema | Dobromed

What is eczema? ”, and is an excellent description of one of the symptoms of this disease – a rash that resembles bubbles of boiling water.

Symptoms of eczema

Eczema is characterized by sudden flare-ups and remissions. Today, for example, she can suddenly and in every sense clearly declare herself, and in a few weeks her symptoms will completely and completely disappear. In children, eczema can appear on the face, chin or chest. In adults, it is more often seen on the neck, elbows, inside of the palms and under the knees. At the same time, eczema is very capricious and can manifest itself anywhere and anytime. It is not at all necessary that, having appeared once, say, on the elbow, it will continue to affect this part of the body. Despite the fact that the typical manifestations of eczema are redness and a rash that causes burning and itching, this disease is very diverse and can manifest itself with a variety of symptoms. Here are just a few of them: painful reddening of the skin with characteristic itching; a blistering rash that can get “wet” and peel off; mild to moderate itching, which in some cases can turn into severe inflammation of the skin; dry, cracked, scaly or keratinized skin; yellow scales on the eyebrows and scalp. When diagnosing eczema, it is important to remember that its symptoms are very individual, each person will have their own. You may have one symptom of this disease, or all together. And it is not at all necessary that the same type of eczema will have the same manifestation pattern in two different patients. The only way to know for sure if your skin problems are eczema is to make an appointment with a dermatologist.

Types of eczema

Today it is difficult to identify a single classification of eczema. Its forms are usually determined depending on the location, nature and nature of occurrence. There are 5 most common forms of this disease.

Atopic dermatitis

The terms “eczema” and “atopic dermatitis” are often used interchangeably, but this is not entirely correct. Atopic dermatitis is a severe, chronic and often relapsing form of eczema that is most often caused by a genetic predisposition. Atopic dermatitis is characterized by dry, cracked, scaly skin accompanied by redness and itching. This type of eczema most often appears on the folds of the arms, legs, neck, and also in the chest area. The reasons for its appearance can be very different, from changing seasons to allergies to powder and soap. Stress and food allergies can also trigger this ailment.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is a type of eczema that appears as a red dry rash that makes the skin slightly swollen and causes unbearable itching. As a rule, a rash occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or substance, which, due to the individual characteristics of each person, can cause an allergic reaction. From the moment of contact with the allergen and before the onset of symptoms, it can take a matter of minutes or days. The most common triggers for allergic contact dermatitis are shower gels, shampoos, soaps, laundry detergents, cosmetics, and even jewelry. This list also includes detergents, bleaches, disinfectants, as well as various fertilizers and pesticides.

True eczema

True or, as it is also called, idiomatic, eczema is a classic form of the manifestation of the disease. It is rather difficult to establish the specific cause of its occurrence. It occurs sporadically and for no apparent reason. Most often, this eczema appears as small, fluid-filled rash nodules. Subsequently, they can turn into weeping erosions, overgrow with crusts, scales and be accompanied by unpleasant sensations of burning and itching. If all of these eczema symptoms appear at the same time, doctors diagnose true eczema. In addition, this type of eczema is characterized by a symmetrical rash. If rashes, say, appeared on one arm, they often occur on the second.

Seborrheic eczema

Seborrheic eczema tends to occur on areas of the skin rich in sebaceous glands. Although seborrheic eczema most commonly affects the scalp, it can appear in and around the ears, on the eyebrows, nose, back, between the shoulder blades, and on the upper chest. This type of eczema appears as greasy yellow or white scales. Despite the fact that seborrheic eczema is a chronic condition, with adequate treatment, long-term remission can be achieved.

Microbial eczema

Microbial eczema is an allergic reaction of the body that occurs against the background of a weakened immune system when the skin is chronically infected with bacteria, most often staphylococci or streptococci. As a rule, microbial eczema occurs in places of cuts, abrasions and wounds that do not heal for a long time and manifests itself in the form of large inflamed areas covered with scaly skin, purulent crusts or weeping erosion. Despite the fact that microbial eczema can occur on any part of the skin, even on the head, it still most often appears on the hands and feet.

Causes of eczema

Contrary to popular belief, eczema is not a contagious disease and therefore cannot be contracted. Although the exact cause of eczema is unknown, it is believed that it may be caused by an overly sensitive immune system to certain external stimuli, which manifests itself in inflammation of the skin in the form of redness, rashes and itching. Research also suggests that some people with eczema have a mutation in the gene responsible for making filaggrin, a protein that helps maintain a healthy protective barrier of the epidermis. Without enough filaggrin, the skin begins to lose moisture, dry out and crack, thereby opening the gate for bacteria and viruses. As a result, many people with eczema have very dry skin that is prone to frequent infections. Most experts agree that eczema is caused by a combination of internal and external causes – an oversensitive immune system and triggers, which may include, but are not limited to, the following factors: genetic predisposition; disruption of the endocrine system of the body; disruption of the gastrointestinal tract; an allergic reaction to pathogens of fungal and bacterial infections; allergic reaction to the use of household chemicals; taking certain medications; an allergic reaction to a number of foods; house dust mite; stress; hypothermia, overheating and the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation. © vostock-photo

Treatment and prevention of eczema

Since eczema is a chronic disease, it is impossible to get rid of it once and for all. The key to maintaining health lies in relieving and preventing symptoms. Specific treatments for each patient are selected individually, based on the symptoms and type of eczema. As a rule, dermatologists recommend using moisturizing creams, antihistamines, and, if necessary, topical corticosteroids to eliminate symptoms that have already appeared. In some cases, light therapy can be a good helper in the treatment of eczema. To prevent eczema, it is necessary, if possible, to identify and eliminate external triggers that initially provoked its appearance. However, do not forget that for each person eczema manifests itself in its own way, respectively, and the external processes that trigger its appearance are different for everyone. When trying to identify the trigger of eczema, remember that sometimes it appears only after a while after external exposure, and tracking it can sometimes be problematic. Therefore, in order to minimize the risk of eczema, you need to make some adjustments to your lifestyle. People prone to inflammation of the epidermis are not recommended to overdry the skin, they should drink plenty of water, do not abuse the hot bath and shower, and use household chemicals with caution. To avoid further spread of eczema, try not to scratch the affected skin and limit contact with materials that can irritate her. Wear soft, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics, preferably cotton or linen. Avoid fabrics that can cause itching, such as wool and rayon. An important step in preventing eczema is a healthy diet. To reduce the risk of symptoms, alcohol, coffee, canned food, smoked foods, spicy foods, corn, and citrus fruits should be eliminated from the diet whenever possible.

Eczema: causes, diagnosis and treatment in the best clinics

Eczema: causes, diagnosis and treatment in the best clinics

Eczema is a non-infectious skin disease in which an inflammatory process of skin tissues occurs, which is accompanied by a rash and severe itching. The disease can occur in both acute and chronic forms. According to statistics, this pathology is diagnosed in approximately 1-5% of the adult population of the planet and in 15-20% of children. At the same time, among all skin pathologies, the disease is 25-30%. The skin of the hands, feet, face, neck, and scalp may be affected. In severe forms, the entire skin can be included in the process.

This disease can cause skin wounds and infection. In addition, constant itching can provoke sleep problems, cause neuroses. Treatment of eczema is a rather difficult task, since the disease has a relapsing course and over time, the severity of its manifestations often increases. However, today there are new methods that can effectively deal with this skin problem.

What is eczema and what does it look like?

This is a polymorphic disease, in other words, it can manifest itself in different ways depending on the variety, stage of development, and characteristics of the patient.

Among the main signs of pathology:

• rashes;
• redness of the skin;
• edema;
• wetting;
• appearance of crusts;
• due to severe itching, the patient may scratch the area of ​​inflammation;
• skin thickening;
• pigmentation disorders.

Symptoms of the disease can manifest themselves in different ways and with varying degrees of intensity. Rashes can be quite diverse depending on the type of pathology, while inflammatory processes can affect a variety of skin areas.

Types of eczema

There are many types of the disease and different classifications. According to the peculiarities of skin manifestations, eczema is distinguished:

• dry;
• wet.

In addition, the following types of the disease are most often distinguished:

• Idiopathic or true eczema.
• Microbial. Occurs around infected wounds.
• Varicose. Diagnosed with varicose veins of the lower extremities in the area of ​​vascular inflammation.
• Mycotic. Manifested as an allergic reaction to a fungal infection.
• Seborrheic. Seborrheic eczema is localized on the head and in other places where there are many sebaceous glands.
• Dyshidrotic. Localized on the soles of the feet and on the palms.
• Professional. Appears under the influence of a number of irritating factors associated with professional activities.
• Children’s. Usually appears before the age of 5 years. It is characterized by a profuse rash that disappears as it grows older.

What is the cause of eczema?

In order to find an effective treatment for eczema, you need to find out the causes that caused it. Both external and internal factors can provoke the appearance of this pathology. Often, pathology occurs under the influence of several factors at the same time. The most common causes are:

• genetic predisposition;
• fungal infections;
• bacterial infections;
• contact with allergens;
• taking certain medications;
• contact with toxic substances;
• the presence of chronic inflammatory diseases in the body;
• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• deterioration of the immune system;
• hormonal imbalance.

Pathology recurrence can occur against the background of severe stress and emotional overstrain.

What are the stages of eczema?

Due to the fact that the disease has many forms, it can proceed in different ways. If we talk about true eczema, then the following stages are usually distinguished:

• Initial. The skin turns red and begins to itch.
• Subacute. Small papules with liquid are formed.
• Sharp. Bubbles burst, weeping areas are formed.
• Chronic. Crusts form, peeling of the skin is observed, and an inflammatory process begins in new areas of the skin.

Why is eczema dangerous?

This pathology is considered one of the most complex skin diseases. In the early stages of the disease, it responds well to treatment and most often it is possible to achieve a long-term remission or even completely cure eczema. However, in severe and advanced cases, the disease can be quite severe, covering large surfaces of the skin.

Bleeding wounds may occur, severe pain may appear, wounds may become infected. Against the background of severe skin rashes and itching, the patient may have problems with sleep, increased irritability, and neuroses. Properly selected treatment of eczema will help to avoid this.

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What is the difference between psoriasis and eczema?

Both eczema and psoriasis are non-infectious inflammatory dermatological diseases. However, they differ from each other in visual signs and the nature of the rashes. Eczema is characterized by rashes in the form of vesicles, at the opening of which liquid is released and ulcerations and wounds appear. With psoriasis, dry patches covered with scales appear. Each of the diseases has its own characteristics of treatment, so it is important to accurately diagnose the problem.

What is the difference between dermatitis and eczema?

Eczema is a type of dermatitis that has its own characteristics of manifestation and course. If you have skin rashes and other symptoms similar to those of eczema, you should consult a dermatologist. The doctor will be able to accurately diagnose whether it is eczema or some other type of dermatitis, and will select the necessary treatment.

Diagnosis of eczema

A dermatologist deals with the diagnosis and treatment of eczema. In order to accurately determine the skin problem and identify the causes of its occurrence, a number of studies are carried out:

• the doctor analyzes the external manifestations of the disease;
• microbiological analysis of tissues taken from the affected areas is done;
• skin tests for allergens are performed.

In some cases, a histological analysis may be ordered additionally. Also, a dermatologist may prescribe additional studies of internal organs in order to study the state of various body systems.

Treatment of eczema

When eczema is diagnosed, treatment is selected taking into account the form of the disease, its stage, location, degree of skin damage, and severity of the disease. Traditional treatments for eczema include:

• Drug therapy. Anti-inflammatory drugs, antihistamines, hormonal drugs, antibacterial agents, vitamins can be prescribed. To relieve itching with eczema, local anesthetics are prescribed, sedatives can be used to reduce psycho-emotional stress.
• Physiotherapy. Treatment may include special baths, ozone therapy, phototherapy, cryotherapy.
• Diet therapy. It is recommended to avoid foods that can act as allergens.

It is also important to avoid severe stress and give the body enough rest.

However, standard treatments are not always effective enough. Often, drug treatment affects the patient only for a short period of time, but over time, the rashes become more abundant, and the risk of complications increases. In addition, with long-term use of drugs, drug resistance develops. Therefore, there is a constant search for new possibilities in the treatment of eczema.

The latest in the treatment of eczema

Regenerative cell therapy is currently the focus of attention in the treatment of moderate to severe forms of dermatitis. The essence of this technique is to use stem cells and their unique properties. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are used, non-hematopoietic progenitor cells of stromal origin, which have the potential for tissue repair due to their ability to self-renewal and differentiation, and are considered strong modulators of the immune system. They can be obtained from bone marrow, cord blood, adipose tissue, dental pulp and skin.

At the moment, the mechanisms of the influence of MSCs in the treatment of dermatitis have not yet been fully elucidated. However, studies have shown the effectiveness of this technique. For example, subcutaneous administration of a drug with stem cells to patients led to a decrease in the symptoms of the disease. A 50% reduction in the so-called area and severity index of eczema was observed. Immune-related markers of atopic dermatitis were also reduced.

Research into the technique is still ongoing, therapeutic strategies for this disease still need to be improved, but there are already clinics that are successfully using this technique to combat eczema.

Would you like a free consultation?

To choose the best doctor and sign up for a consultation at the clinic, leave a request on the MedTour website. The doctor-coordinator will help you with the choice of a doctor and select the best clinic according to your wishes.

The best clinics for the treatment of eczema

Today you have the opportunity to receive medical care in leading clinics around the world. You can go for treatment to medical centers that use the most innovative treatments for eczema, including stem cell therapy. We will help you find a clinic according to your needs and requests. Send us a request through the contact form to consult a MedTour coordinating doctor for free.

Would you like a free consultation?

To choose the best doctor and sign up for a consultation at the clinic, leave a request on the MedTour website. The doctor-coordinator will help you with the choice of a doctor and select the best clinic according to your wishes.

Our best specialist doctors

MedTour will help you get to doctors who specialize in the treatment of skin diseases, apply advanced techniques and demonstrate good results. You can get treatment from the best dermatologists.

To learn more about the possibilities of using cell therapy, you can consult online with Andrey Olegovich Kovalchuk, PhD, associate professor, surgeon. Andrei Olegovich uses stem cell therapy for various pathological conditions, he will be able to talk about the advantages and features of this technique in the treatment of skin diseases and discuss the possibility of its application in your case.

Would you like a free consultation?

To choose the best doctor and sign up for a consultation at the clinic, leave a request on the MedTour website. The doctor-coordinator will help you with the choice of a doctor and select the best clinic according to your wishes.

Frequently asked questions

How does eczema start?

At the initial stage, redness and swelling appear in certain areas of the skin. All this is accompanied by severe itching. Then comes the next stage – a rash appears, which may differ depending on the type of disease.

What does dry eczema look like?

This form of the disease has its own characteristics. As with other types of disease, redness of small areas of the skin and itching appear. But with this variety, the skin is very dry.