Did you know? Eczema affects up to 15 million Americans each year. Infants are more prone to having eczema than adults, but it’s still something that many people struggle with throughout their lives.

Read on as our AFC Urgent Care Knoxville team provides more information on this skin condition.

What Exactly Is Eczema?

Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition marked by itchy and inflamed patches of skin.

It’s often seen in babies and young children, appearing on the faces of 10% to 20% of American infants. It’s one of many types of dermatitis, and it damages the skin barrier function (the “glue” of your skin), which will, in turn, makes the skin more sensitive and more prone to infection and dryness. We’ve listed the eczema’s common symptoms below.

Common Symptoms of Eczema

• Dry skin
• Itching, which may be severe, especially at night
• Red to brownish-gray patches—especially on the hands, feet, ankles, wrists, neck, upper chest, eyelids, inside the bend of the elbows and knees, and in infants, the face and scalp
• Small, raised bumps, which may leak fluid and crust over when scratched
• Thickened, cracked, scaly skin
• Raw, sensitive, swollen skin from scratching

Is Eczema Treatable?

Yes and no. While eczema isn’t curable, eczema “flare-ups” can be managed with treatment and lifestyle changes.

Do your best to figure out what triggers or worsens your eczema, and then avoid it. The goal is to reduce itching and discomfort and prevent infection and additional flare-ups. We’ve listed a few effective treatment ideas below.

Ways to Treat Eczema

• Use a humidifier if dry air makes your skin dry.
• Use mild soaps and other products that are free of perfumes, dyes and alcohol. Look for products labeled “fragrance free,” “hypoallergenic” and “for sensitive skin.”
• Moisturize your skin using a cream or ointment. Lotions don’t work as well. Apply several times a day, including after you bathe or shower.
• Use lukewarm water in the tub or shower instead of hot.

Need medical care? Our AFC Urgent Care Knoxville team is here for you, so don’t hesitate to visit us!