Eczema, a widespread skin disorder affecting millions, manifests in various forms such as atopic, contact, and seborrheic dermatitis. Recognizing symptoms like dry, itchy, and inflamed skin is essential for proper treatment. This comprehensive guide details the types, causes, and signs of eczema, emphasizing early diagnosis and care for effective management and relief.

Eczema, also known as dermatosis, is a common skin ailment marked by itching, redness, and inflammation. Affecting over 30 million people nationwide, this non-contagious condition results from genetic predispositions and environmental factors that trigger immune reactions and skin cell alterations. Individuals may experience multiple eczema forms simultaneously. Symptoms often include dry, flaky, red, and itchy skin, sometimes with cracking or weeping. Identifying the specific eczema type is vital for effective management.

The main categories include:

Atopic Eczema: Often beginning in childhood, affecting areas like behind the knees, cheeks, and arms, characterized by dry, itchy, cracked skin, frequently linked to allergies such as hay fever and asthma, especially with a family history.

Contact Eczema: Caused by contact with irritants like soaps, chemicals, or metals, resulting in redness, swelling, blisters, and burning sensations at contact points.

Dyshidrotic Eczema: Affects hands and feet with itchy blisters, redness, and cracking, often triggered by stress, allergies, or exposure to nickel or cobalt compounds.

Hand Eczema: Common among those frequent hand hygiene practices or exposure to harsh chemicals, showing dryness, cracks, redness, and discomfort.

Lichen Simplex Chronicus: Features thick, scaly patches from persistent scratching, usually on neck, shoulders, and scalp, with intense itching.

Nummular Eczema: Presents as round, coin-shaped patches that are itchy and flaky, often resulting from insect bites or dry skin.

Seborrheic Dermatitis: A chronic condition affecting oily regions like the scalp, face, and upper back, showing dandruff, redness, and in infants, cradle cap, with unclear origins involving yeast and hormonal factors.

Timely detection and proper treatment are crucial for effective management. If you notice persistent skin issues, seek medical advice for tailored care options.