Find relief with board-certified eczema treatment at Westerville Dermatology.
What is Eczema?
Are you plagued with scaly, itchy patches of skin on your body? You may be suffering from the symptoms of eczema, a very common skin condition that affects around 31.6 million people (10.1%) in the U.S. While the causes of eczema remain unknown, it’s important to find effective, reliable treatment options due to the increased risk of infection that this skin condition can cause.
Although there is no cure, the board-certified and trusted dermatologists at Westerville Dermatology have safe and reliable eczema treatment options that can help you better manage your eczema symptoms and flare-ups. Contact us if you have any questions.
Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition. A key factor in this skin condition is a lack of a protein, called filaggrin, that helps with the form and function of the skin barrier.
The most common type of eczema is called atopic dermatitis. While commonly referred to as just eczema, there are several types and all of them may feel itchy and irritating. If you think you have eczema, schedule an appointment for evaluation and treatment options with Westerville Dermatology in Westerville, OH.
Eczema FAQs
You may have a lot of questions about eczema before you make an appointment. Take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions below to help you better understand this common skin condition, and contact our board-certified dermatologists to find a personalized eczema treatment plan that works for you.
Eczema often appears when the skin barrier becomes weakened due to a lack of filaggrin. Without this key protein, skin lacks moisture control, as well as protection from penetrating irritants like allergens. This can trigger an eczema flare-up and its troubling symptoms.
However, not everyone who has eczema has the same flare-up triggers. Eczema flare-ups may be stimulated by things like the environment, stress, and chemicals. This is why it is generally best to consult with a board-certified dermatologist who can help you identify your triggers to mitigate flare-ups and symptoms. Contact us if you are interested in speaking with one of our doctors about your eczema.
Eczema can be dry, itchy, and inflamed, but different types have varying symptoms. Here’s what each type may look like:
- Atopic dermatitis: inflamed, itchy, dry patches
- Dyshidrotic eczema: dry, burning rashes and blisters
- Nummular eczema: small round lesions
- Contact dermatitis: itchy rash
- Neurodermatitis: small itchy and scaly patches
- Seborrheic Dermatitis: inflamed, dry, itchy scalp
- Stasis Dermatitis: discoloring (similar to varicose veins)
The differences in each type may sound similar, so be sure to look at the photos of eczema below for a deeper understanding.
From topical creams to light therapy and lifestyle changes, there are a number of eczema treatment options available that can help you improve your eczema symptoms. Depending on the type of eczema you’re experiencing, your provider may provide treatment with:
- Antihistamines
- Corticosteroid cream
- Steroids
- Calcineurin inhibitors
- Antibiotics
- Light therapy
- Oatmeal baths/lotions
- Lifestyle changes
Eczema is not contagious, but can be inherited. A family history of eczema can put you at a higher risk of being diagnosed with this skin condition.
As of right now, science hasn’t recognized eczema as an autoimmune disease, although certain attributes of eczema resemble an autoimmune disease.
Eczema can cause a number of undesirable symptoms, physically and mentally. If you haven’t been diagnosed with eczema yet, consulting with a doctor is important. Once diagnosed, a dermatologist will discuss the right treatments to manage your symptoms. You should see a doctor if:
- You have no diagnosis
- Your eczema symptoms interfere with daily activities
- Your eczema patches become infected (oozing fluid, crusty, yellow, inflamed, swollen, sore, you feel ill)
- Your current eczema treatments aren’t working
Eczema Photos
Take a closer look at what eczema may present as on the skin. If these images are comparable to your symptoms, contact our board-certified dermatologists for reliable eczema treatment near Westerville, Ohio.
Eczema Treatment in Westerville, Ohio
When experiencing signs and symptoms of eczema, it may become uncomfortable, both physically and mentally. At Westerville Dermatology in Westerville, Ohio, our board-certified dermatologists provide reliable diagnosis and effective treatment options to help alleviate the symptoms of this skin disease.
Contact our providers online or call (614) 756-6981 and schedule an appointment for eczema treatment today in Westerville, Ohio.
Have questions or concerns? Please call us at 614-895-0400.