Eczema Specialist

Improve skin health, texture, and appearance

What is eczema?

Eczema is a name for a group of common skin conditions that cause itchiness, redness, and a rash-like appearance. There are seven different types of eczema, which are all slightly different in nature. 

Atopic eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is the most common type of eczema, and is caused by allergic reactions. If you struggle with eczema, the team at Premier Allergy & Asthma is here to help. Our doctors can help identify potential causes of eczema, recommend lifestyle changes and medications to address its effects, and help you get relief from eczema. Give us a call at (614) 328-9927 to schedule an appointment at one of our central Ohio allergy clinics.

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Symptoms that develop due to eczema

Itchy, dry, sensitive skin

Eczema commonly causes itchy, dry, and sensitive skin. This may be isolated to one patch of skin or may occur in multiple parts of your body. In mild cases, this is usually the extent of eczema’s effects. Your skin will feel dry, sensitive, and may cause uncomfortable and annoying itchiness.

Rough, leathery, or scaly patches of skin

Eczema can cause patches of skin to change in texture, making it feel rough to the touch, or causing a leathery, scaly, and flaky appearance. This is common in more serious cases of chronic eczema.

Swelling, oozing, or crusting

People with very severe eczema may find that affected patches of skin swell, become crusty and rough, and may even crack, causing sores and that ooze clear or yellowish pus. This can be particularly dangerous since cracked or broken skin could increase the risk of bacteria entering your body through the skin, and cause an infection.

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Common triggers for eczema flare-ups

There are a variety of triggers that may cause eczema flare-ups. Typically, these are different for each person. One of the most common causes is dry skin, which can worsen the effects of eczema or even lead to a flare-up. In some cases, irritants like certain fragrances, soaps, metals, or even fabric-like wool and polyester could contribute to eczema flare-ups. 

Stress is also thought to be an eczema trigger, though the precise way it causes flare-ups is not yet understood. Allergens are also thought to be a contributing factor. This could include food allergies, drug allergies, environmental allergies, or pet allergies.

Treatments to relieve eczema

Skincare and bathing

Along with identifying and avoiding triggers, it’s important to maintain a skincare and bathing routine. Since dry skin is a common contributing factor to eczema, a good daily moisturizing routine with eczema-safe products can help relieve the symptoms and prevent eczema from recurring in the future.

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Prescription medication

For severe cases of eczema, prescription topical medications may be prescribed. In some cases, certain drugs and immunosuppressants may also be recommended. Every patient is different, and what works for one patient may not work for another. During your consultation at Premier Allergy & Asthma, your provider will work closely with you to identify your triggers and determine which prescriptions, if any, are appropriate for your eczema treatment.