Eczema – causes, symptoms, treatment, diet. What is the difference between eczema and AD?

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Eczema (eczema) is a group of skin conditions that cause inflammation, redness and itching of the skin. Very often eczema is identified only with atopic dermatitis, but it is worth knowing that there are several types of eczema. Read what eczema is exactly, its types, diagnosis and treatment.

It should be noted that there are two main groups of eczema (in turn, the different types of eczema will be discussed below): exogenous eczema, contact eczema, and endogenous eczema, otherwise constitutional.

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Contact / exogenous eczema is eczema arising from contact with a substance from outside, and constitutional / endogenous eczema is caused by the body’s tendency to occur. So it is a genetic condition. It does not mean, however, that the course of endogenous eczema cannot be aggravated by environmental factors, it can even be caused by them.

Exogenous eczema occurs as a result of an external factor in the environment that has an adverse effect on the skin. There are artificial factors (e.g. irritants) and natural factors (e.g. cold and dry air).

External factors can also be grouped as, irritants (harmful factors that can damage the skin to some extent in all of us) and allergic factors (substances to which the skin of certain people reacts in a specific way, and this is because their system the immune system incorrectly identifies them as harmful).

Eczema – course

Eczema usually occurs in the following four stages: initially there is erythema, then vesicles, exudation, and finally scabs. Symptoms are accompanied by itching of varying severity.

In the development of eczema, its individual phases can also be distinguished, depending on the severity of the disease symptoms. Stands out:

1. the acute phase – a characteristic feature of this phase is the appearance of strong erythema (after a few hours after contact with a potential allergen) and purulent, small bubbles that indicate an exudative focus,
2. subacute (intermediate) phase – there is a slight exfoliation of skin lesions and scabs on erythema,
3. chronic phase – this phase of eczema occurs after a longer inflammation, which leads to epidermis hypertrophy and very strong exfoliation. Bothersome itching appears, which causes the scratching of inflammatory foci and the formation of secondary eruptions.

In order to relieve skin ailments accompanying eczema, reduce irritation and soothe the skin, it is worth using the Bioherba Tonic Cleansing for oily and combination skin. It reduces inflammation and gently cleanses the skin.

See Joint remedy helps with eczema

Eczema – causes of development

Eczema is caused by a person’s inability to repair damage to the skin barrier. This is due to a mutation in a gene called filaggrin. Filaggrin is important for the formation of the skin barrier. Typically, each skin cell has two copies of the filaggrin gene. However, eczema-prone people only have one copy of this gene.

Although only one copy of the gene is needed to form a normal skin barrier, two copies are important for skin barrier repair. If the skin is exposed to irritants and the skin barrier is broken, in a person with only one copy, the ability to repair the skin barrier is limited.

After the skin barrier is breached, the skin becomes dry and peeling. Environmental allergens (environmental irritants) can also enter the skin and activate the immune system, causing inflammation that causes the skin to become red and itchy.

Eczema is more likely if your family has a history of eczema or allergic conditions including hay fever and bronchial asthma.

Eczema is usually itchy. For many people, itching can range from mild to moderate. However, unfortunately, in some cases it may worsen considerably and skin inflammation may develop. Sometimes the itching becomes so severe that sufferers scratch the lesions until they begin to bleed, which can cause inflammation and worsen the eczema. This is called the “itch-scratch cycle.”

The general symptoms of eczema include:

1. dry, sensitive skin,
2. skin inflammation,
3. discolored skin
4. rough or flaky patches of skin
5. appearing blisters that may burst and ooze,
6. Scabs appearing at the site of the bladder.

For eczema and eczema it is worth using special preparations, eg liquid soap for acne skin – sulfur + colloidal silver, which accelerates tissue regeneration. We also recommend preparations with the addition of bee products, eg BIO face scrub with Propolia BeeYes propolis.

Read: Common skin diseases

Eczema – types

Eczema, as already mentioned, is not a single disease entity. In many sources, eczema is only identified as atopic dermatitis, which is a mistake. There are various types of eczema (eczema), which differ in their clinical picture. The most common are:

1. atopic eczema,
2. occupational eczema,
3. seborrheic eczema,
4. eczema of the lower limbs,
5. pimple eczema,
6. sweat eczema,
7. keratotic eczema,
8. childhood eczema,
9. corpus callosum eczema,
10. photoallergic eczema,
11. phototoxic.

For skin with eczema, dry and prone to irritation, you can use Bioherba borage oil, which additionally reduces wrinkles and has a positive effect on the entire body.

The different types of eczema will be characterized below.

The causes of atopic dermatitis are primarily genetic, and much less often environmental factors (which also affect the possibility of developing the disease).

Body care can be difficult for eczema. It is worth reaching for appropriate cosmetics, but also delicate and natural care accessories. The Tadé Pays du Levant badger shaving brush and other Tadé Pays du Levant products available on Medonet Market will do the job here.

Atopic dermatitis – characteristics

Atopic dermatitis (AD), also known as atopic eczema (atopic eczema), is a chronic recurrent inflammation of the skin and the most common form of eczema. The incidence of atopic dermatitis has increased 2 to 3 times in industrialized countries, affecting approximately 15% to 20% of children and 1% to 3% of adults worldwide.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a multi-faceted, chronic recurrent inflammatory skin disease that is often associated with other atopic symptoms such as food allergy, allergic rhinitis, and bronchial asthma.

The first symptoms often appear in childhood and may be mild to severe. A child is more likely to develop atopic dermatitis if one of the parents has it. Children with atopic dermatitis have a higher risk of food hypersensitivity and are more likely to develop bronchial asthma and hay fever.

The course of atopic dermatitis is chronic and recurrent, with exacerbations in spring and autumn. Remission or improvement occurs in the summer. There are three phases of the disease:

1. baby – from the earliest months of life to the second year of life,
2. children’s – up to 12 years of age,
3. youth and adults.

The lesions caused by atopic dermatitis are eczema-like, with a significant tendency to lichenization (it is a condition of increased thickening of the skin and roughness). For the care of skin with such changes, we recommend Bioherba Soap Bar for sensitive and dry skin, which soothes irritation and supports skin regeneration. In turn, for children, it is worth using a gentle bath lotion and 2in1 shampoo with rice proteins and Anthyllis Baby hibiscus extract with a moisturizing and soothing effect.

Read: Food Allergy in Children and Adults

Atopic dermatitis – diagnosis

In order to diagnose AD, at least 3 out of 4 main criteria and at least 3 minor criteria must be met.

The main criteria are (at least 3 out of 4 below):

1. itchy skin
2. chronic and relapsing course of the disease,
3. typical location of skin lesions,
4. patient or family history of atopy.

The smaller criteria include:

1. dry skin
2. ichthyosis or follicular keratosis,
3. positive results of skin prick tests,
4. increased levels of IgE (atopy),
5. early age of onset of changes,
6. recurrent skin infections
7. non-specific eczema of the hands and / or feet,
8. nipple eczema,
9. lip redness,
10. recurrent conjunctivitis,
11. keratoconus,
12. subcapsular cataract,
13. darkening around the eyes,
14. Dennie and Morgan’s symptom (eye fold),
15. white dermographism,
16. anterior cervical fold,
17. itchy skin after sweating
18. individual food intolerance,
19. wool intolerance,
20. exacerbation of lesions after stress,
21. facial erythema,
22. white dandruff,
23. highlighting the hair follicles.

In children, skin lesions are mainly located on the nape, wrists, cheeks, elbow and knee bends. These are scattered or confluent exudative lumps. In adolescents and adults, the location of the lesions is similar, but they also often occur on the backs of the hands, face and neck.

People with atopic dermatitis usually experience flare-ups where eczema worsens. Factors that may influence this include:

1. low humidity, cold and extreme temperature changes,
2. irritants such as detergents, soaps, perfumes and other fragrances
3. mites,
4. animal hair and saliva,
5. skin infections, including scabies
6. some fabrics, such as wool and synthetics,
7. hormonal changes, often before menstruation or during pregnancy
8. food allergies.

For the care of problematic skin, we recommend jojoba oil for skin inflammation, which has soothing and regenerating properties.

Potnicowy eczema – characteristics

Sweating eczema (dyshidrotic) is a form of eczema that usually occurs in adults under the age of 40. It usually occurs on the hands and feet and has distinctive symptoms, including intense itching and the appearance of small blisters.

In some cases, the blisters may become large and watery. The blisters can become infected, resulting in pain, swelling and even discharge of pus (exudate).

The blisters usually disappear within a few weeks. As a result, the skin often dries out and cracks, which can lead to painful cracks in the skin. It’s not clear what causes dyshydrotic eczema. However, it has been observed that this type of eczema is more common in people who struggle with:

1. hay fever.
2. atopic dermatitis or there is a family history of atopic dermatitis
3. fungal skin infections.

People who work with certain chemicals or have their hands submerged in water most of the day are also at a higher risk of developing dyshydrotic eczema. Other triggers include emotional stress and changes in the weather. Dyshydrotic eczema can be a form of contact dermatitis. People with dyshydrotic eczema also experience flare-ups from time to time.

You can safely use Propolia BeeYes Active Propolis Soap with Honey for skin eczema and prophylactically.

Read also: Know the allergy on your own skin – urticaria

Contact eczema – characteristics

Contact eczema (contact eczema) is contact dermatitis, characterized by a red, itchy rash caused by direct contact with an irritant or a direct allergic reaction to it. The rash is not contagious or life threatening. There are two main types of contact eczema – irritant and allergic.

Irritation contact eczema accounts for 80% of all contact eczema, does not cause an allergic reaction of the immune system. This happens when skin cells are damaged by irritating substances such as solvents, detergents, soaps, bleaches, or jewelry containing nickel. Makeup, hair dye, nickel-containing scissors, belt buckles, or clothes with metal clasps or zippers can also trigger reactions – as can washing your hands excessively with hot water and soap, and wearing coarse wool.

Allergic contact eczema, is a delayed allergic reaction that shows up with a rash a day or two after the skin has come into contact with the allergen. A common example is poison ivy. When exposed, the body produces a strong inflammatory response to the oils contained in the plant, leading to an itchy rash within one to two days. Fragrances, nickel and the preservative thiomersal, which are found in some topical antibiotics, are also common causes of allergic contact eczema.

Signs and symptoms of contact eczema include:

1. red rash
2. itchy skin
3. dry, cracked, flaky skin,
4. lumps and blisters, sometimes with exudate and crusts
5. swelling, burning or tenderness of skin lesions.

See: The cheapest detergent for washing, cleaning the toilet and cleaning floors. No chemicals!

Learn more about the most common skin care mistakes in a child with AD that are exacerbating the condition

Eczema – home remedies

People with eczema have sensitive skin. Irritating substances such as heat or detergents can easily trigger an eczema attack. Suggestions for reducing skin irritation during eczema include:

1. avoid overheating the skin. Wear several layers of clothing that you can take off if necessary, instead of one heavy,
2. Avoid using perfumed bubble baths, avoid perfumes, perfumed skin lotions and strongly scented shampoos,
3. wear soft, smooth fabrics next to your skin, preferably 100% cotton. Avoid abrasive materials such as pure wool, polyester, or acrylic. You can try a mixture of cotton and synthetic material – this is good for some people with eczema. Remove tags from clothing that may irritate the skin,
4. always wear protective gloves when using any type of chemicals or detergents,
5. avoid chlorinated pools. If you have to swim in a chlorinated pool, moisturize your skin well after you get out,
6. when using a new cosmetic, first try to test it on a small area of ​​skin, for example on the forearm. If you notice a reaction, don’t use it,
7. people with eczema have sensitive skin. Irritating substances such as heat or detergents can easily trigger an eczema attack.

Sylveco, a soothing body lotion that soothes irritations and has anti-inflammatory properties, will work for the care of skin with symptoms of eczema. At Medonet Market, you can also order the anti-wrinkle face elixir with vitamin C 5% Vianek, suitable for skin with eczema. We also recommend Natural Dead Sea Mud Soap, which cares for, cleanses and disinfects the skin, as well as Herbamedicus aloe gel and a creamy ointment with mummy, algae and urea.

Eczema – living with eczema

Eczema can occur all over the body. It causes dry, reddening of the skin, which can be very itchy, flaky or cracked. Continuous scratching can crack the skin, leading to an infection – usually characterized by exudation and crusting, or “wet” eczema.

A skin condition such as eczema can affect your appearance, well-being, other people, and the world around you. It is not just a matter of physical discomfort or inconvenience. Eczema can affect your emotional, social and personal well-being. It can disrupt family life, personal and social relationships, leisure, vacation and all kinds of daily activities.

The physical severity of eczema does not necessarily determine how much it affects your life. This may depend on how noticeable the lesion is or where it is on the body. No one else can really tell you how “mild”, “moderate” or “severe” your eczema is – what matters is how you feel.

Eczema can cause anxiety, embarrassment, or a lack of confidence. It can also cause anger, frustration or depression, and it can affect how you relate to other people and how they relate to you. It can affect how you view life and the choices you make.

There is no single solution to dealing with eczema – we all have different ways of dealing with challenges and new situations. If you find it difficult to deal with your own or your child’s eczema, you may need to consider finding additional support. If you have problems, talk to your doctor, psychologist, or therapist.

Eczema – diagnosis and treatment

During the diagnosis of eczema, particular attention is paid to the patient’s symptoms. In order to broaden the diagnosis and further evaluation, the family doctor refers patients to a dermatologist who deals with skin diseases or to an allergist specializing strictly in allergies.

The medical history of the patient and the conducted medical history are very helpful in diagnosing eczema. During the visit, the doctor may ask about the history of skin diseases, family history of allergic diseases, diseases such as asthma and hay fever, and the medications taken by the patient. There is currently no one specific study that will make a definitive diagnosis of eczema, but some tests are available to suggest that a doctor is sensitive to an allergy in a patient.

In a situation where a patient has atopic eczema and the allergenic factor has been identified, treatment is much easier. In addition to the local treatment of lesions, prevention is important, which consists in avoiding the triggering (allergenic) factor. Treatment is more demanding when the eczema is internal and the cause is difficult to pin down.

Take advantage of Exema hemp soothing cream with a low pH of 4,7 if you have skin problems. To clean problematic skin, you can use EPTA AC cleansing fluid for oily and acne-prone skin, which you can buy separately or in the EPTA AC comprehensive set for cleansing and caring for oily and acne-prone skin.

Eczema is a condition that likes to recur!

Avoid highly processed foods that are high in colorings, preservatives and improvers. Eating fast food, a large amount of animal fats and sugar also has a negative impact on the appearance of our skin. In addition, there is a restriction in coffee and tea in the recommendations.

Instead of harmful foods, eat a large amount of healthy fats in the form of omega-3 fatty acids. However, tea should be replaced with herbs, e.g. chamomile. You can try the Tea recommended for acne, which includes herbs that benefit the skin and the endocrine system.