Overview
Eczema is common in children and often improves with age, but it can continue into adulthood. It cannot be cured, but good skin care controls it.
Symptoms
- Dry, itchy skin
- Red or darker patches, often in skin creases
- Cracked, rough or thickened skin
- Weeping or crusting during flares
Causes and risk factors
It is linked to a weak skin barrier and an overactive immune response. A family history of eczema, asthma or hay fever increases the risk. Triggers include soaps, heat, sweat, dust and stress.
Diagnosis
A doctor diagnoses eczema by examining the skin and asking about symptoms.
Treatment
Treatment includes regular moisturisers, avoiding triggers, steroid creams for flares, and other medicines for severe eczema. Infected eczema may need antibiotics.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if eczema affects sleep or daily life, does not improve with treatment, or becomes infected with weeping, crusting or pain.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
