Eczema Awareness Month 2024

October is here, and with it comes Eczema Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about one of the most common and challenging skin conditions—eczema. Known medically as Atopic Dermatitis, eczema affects over 230 million people globally, with significant impacts in Ireland where 20% of children and 10% of adults live with the condition. In honour of Eczema Awareness Month, let’s dive deeper into what eczema is, its symptoms, and ways to manage it effectively.

What is Eczema?

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterised by inflammation, redness, and severe itching. It can manifest as dry, flaky patches that can sometimes weep or crust over if infected. Though not contagious, the condition can be incredibly disruptive to daily life. Eczema can affect a person’s sleep, focus, and participation in activities like sports, leading to a ripple effect on mental well-being and quality of life.

Recognising the Symptoms of Eczema

Eczema presents itself with a range of symptoms, which can vary in severity from person to person:

• Itchy Skin: One of the most recognisable symptoms of eczema is the relentless itching, which can be extremely uncomfortable and disruptive.
• Dry, Scaly Patches: The skin may become dry, rough, and scaly, typically appearing pink or red.
• Inflammation: Affected areas may swell, becoming tender to the touch due to inflammation.
• Weeping or Crusting: In more severe cases, eczema patches can ooze or crust over, especially if the skin becomes infected.
• Discomfort: These symptoms can cause physical and emotional distress, making daily tasks feel overwhelming.

Managing Eczema: Treatment & Tips

Although there is no cure for eczema, it can be effectively managed with the right approach. Here are some of the most effective treatment strategies:

• Daily Emollients (Moisturisers): One of the most important steps in managing eczema is keeping the skin well-moisturised. Applying emollients every day helps to lock in moisture and repair the skin's barrier. This also includes using moisturisers in the bath or shower to hydrate the skin and prevent dryness -choose emollients that contain ceramides or glycerides.
• Topical Corticosteroids: These creams or ointments are applied during flare-ups to reduce inflammation and soothe the skin. They're essential in calming the redness and swelling that accompany atopic dermatitis.
• Topical Immunomodulators: For areas with thin or sensitive skin, such as the face, eyelids, and body folds, steroid-free treatments like pimecrolimus or tacrolimus can help maintain skin health without constant use of steroids.
• Antihistamines: For those suffering from severe itching, antihistamines can provide relief, particularly at night, when the sedating properties of some antihistamines help with both sleep and itching.
• Bandages/Wraps and Body Suits: For young children especially, special wraps or body suits can prevent scratching and allow the skin to heal overnight.
• UVB Phototherapy: For individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or undergoing other immunosuppressive therapies, UVB phototherapy is a safe option that can significantly reduce symptoms.
• Immunosuppressants and Biologic Therapies: For moderate to severe cases that don’t respond to traditional treatments, dermatologists may prescribe oral immunosuppressants or biologic therapies. These are advanced treatment options for those who experience ongoing flare-ups.

Living with Eczema: You're Not Alone

While eczema may not have a cure, it is a condition that can be managed with the right care. Living with eczema doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a fulfilling and active life! Understanding your triggers, maintaining a consistent skincare routine, and seeking professional advice from dermatologists are essential steps in managing this condition effectively.

If you would like to discuss your treatment options with our dermatologists, then contact us today to schedule an appointment.