Eczema

If you’re uncomfortable and embarrassed because of inflamed, red eczema patches, medical dermatologists Kim Ross, MD, Ronald Davis, MD, and the team at Ross Dermatology can help you get relief from your eczema so you feel better again.

For personalized, skin care treatment for your eczema, call the nearest office in San Antonio, Seguin, or La Vernia, Texas, to make an appointment or book online today. 210-227-ROSS

What is eczema?

Eczema is a chronic skin condition that can flare up from time to time. It causes swelling on your skin’s surface and itchy, dry, and red skin. 

People with eczema may develop cracked or leathery skin. The entire body can also be affected by the skin condition. 

Symptoms of eczema include:

• Itchy skin that gets worse at night
• Brownish or reddish patches of skin, which can affect many parts of the body, including the hands, upper chest, and feet
• Tiny, raised bumps and areas of thick, scaly skin

Certain factors can make the symptoms of eczema become worse than usual, leading to considerable discomfort. Dry skin, sweat, stress, environmental irritants, certain skin care products and detergents, and continuous scratching can all lead to worsening symptoms. 

What causes eczema?

While scientists haven’t been able to fully explain the cause of eczema. It might result from different factors, such as having dry skin or skin that’s prone to irritation. 

Other factors include genetic variations, immune system problems, and environmental conditions. There’s no cure for this condition, but patients can find relief through dermatology treatments and lifestyle adjustments.

What are the types of eczema?

There are several types of eczema, including:

Atopic dermatitis

If you have atopic dermatitis, you have extremely itchy rashes. The skin condition often runs in families, and you can develop atopic dermatitis as an adult. But in most cases, it appears before the age of five.

Contact dermatitis

If your skin is sensitive to certain allergens or skin care products, you may develop contact dermatitis as a response.   

Dyshidrotic eczema

When you have dyshidrotic eczema, you have tiny, itchy blisters that appear on the edge of your toes, soles of your feet, fingers, and palms. 

Nummular eczema

Nummular eczema is characterized by coin-shaped lesions that may crust over and ooze clear fluid. 

Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a type of eczema that appears as dry flakes on oily regions of your skin, such as your hair scalp, nose, and upper back. 

Stasis dermatitis 

Stasis dermatitis causes skin thickening and discoloration. It usually affects the lower legs due to poor circulation. 

Anyone can have eczema at any age. At Ross Dermatology, the team can help you determine the most appropriate treatment for your type of eczema. 

What are the treatment options for eczema?

Since this is a chronic condition, eczema treatments involve reducing the risk of having symptoms flare up. Some patients benefit from using medications to control their symptoms. These include: 

• Topical creams for itching and irritation 
• Cream products that help support healthy skin 
• Antibiotics for secondary skin infections caused by scratching 

Other treatment options include: 

• Wet dressings
• Using special moisturizers
• Taking warm baths with oatmeal 
• Putting cool compresses on the skin
• Using a humidifier in the home to help skin stay moisturized
• Stress management 

NEW TREATMENTS FOR ATOPIC DERMATITIS INCLUDING DSUPIXENT INJECTIONS FOR KIDS AND ADULTS TO MINIMIZE ITCHING ARE AVAILABLE!
To learn more about your type of eczema and treatment options, make an appointment at Ross Dermatology by calling the nearest office or booking online today.