Eczema

Definition

Eczema is a generalized term that is used for various inflammatory skin conditions. It is also called as "Dermatitis" which means superficial inflammation of the skin (epidermis) that can be acute, chronic and recurring. Eczema is characterized by various reactive patterns of the skin, as discussed below

Symptoms

The following are some of the symptoms of Eczema: • Usually, the first symptom of eczema is intense itching. • The rash appears later and is red and bumpy. • The rash itches or burns. • If it is scratched, it may ooze and become crusty. • In adults, chronic rubbing produces thickened plaques of skin. • Some people develop red bumps or clear fluid-filled bumps, when scratched, add wetness to the overall appearance. • Painful cracks can develop over time. • Although the rash can be located anywhere on the body, in adults it is most often found on the neck, flexures of the arms (opposite the elbow) and flexures of legs (opposite the knee). Infants may exhibit the rash on the torso and face. As the child begins to crawl, the rash involves the skin of the elbows and knees. The diaper area is often spared. • The itching may be so intense that it interferes with sleep. • Dryness, flakiness, heat are associate symptoms. • In infants, eczema typically occurs on the forehead, cheeks, forearms, legs, scalp, and neck. Affected areas usually appear very dry, thickened, or scaly. Some times there will be hyper pigmentation. In children and adults, eczema typically occurs on the face, neck, and the insides of the elbows, knees, and ankles. • Chronic scratching causes the skin to take on a leathery texture because the skin has thickened (lichenification). There are two groups of eczemas called exogenous and endogenous. Exogenous eczema is mostly caused by contact with external factors such as irritant substances, certain allergens and due to photosensitivity. Endogenous eczema is due to internal factors such as a generalized and prolonged hypersensitivity (atopy) to certain environmental factors. These factors could be chemicals, drugs, pollen, dust-mites, etc. These individuals also frequently exhibit one or more of other disorders such as asthma, hay fever, urticaria, food allergies, etc.

Homeopathic Treatment

Eczema is a chronic skin disease reflected due to immunological changes within the body. Eczema is curable only if the immunological disturbance is corrected by internal medicines such as in homeopathy. Homeopathy offers effective and safe treatment for eczema.