Eczema

Eczema includes any skin rash that causes dry or itchy skin. It’s a common chronic skin condition that causes intense itching, affecting quality of life. Sarika Snell, MD, FAAD, and the team at Integrated Dermatology of 19th Street in Washington, DC, provide expert care for eczema. They focus on treatments that ease your symptoms and improve the look and health of your skin. For help managing your eczema, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.

What is eczema?

Eczema is any skin condition that causes an inflamed and itchy rash. It’s a general term that refers to many types of skin issues.

No matter the type of eczema you have, the skin condition is chronic and causes a range of symptoms that vary in severity and frequency. Getting proper care for your eczema may help control symptoms and improve your quality of life.

What are the types of eczema?

Eczema comes in many forms. Some of the common types include:

Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema and usually appears during childhood. With atopic dermatitis, you have dry, itchy, painful rashes.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis occurs when your skin comes in contact with an irritant or allergen, triggering a rash. Poison ivy is an irritant that causes contact dermatitis.

Dyshidrotic eczema

Dyshidrotic eczema causes tiny blisters on the hands or feet that are very itchy. 

Neurodermatitis

Neurodermatitis, also called lichen simplex chronicus, starts out as an intense itch that you can’t help but scratch, leading to a rash.

Nummular eczema

With nummular eczema, you develop raised, oval, and itchy spots on the skin. 

What happens during an eczema consultation?

The Integrated Dermatology of 19th Street team conducts a thorough evaluation when you come in for an eczema consultation.

Your dermatologist reviews your symptoms and the frequency and severity of your outbreaks. They also ask about your medical and family history and examine your skin. 

If you have an active rash, your dermatologist may take a tissue sample and send it to the lab to confirm a diagnosis.

What are some treatments for eczema?

The team at Integrated Dermatology of 19th Street customizes your eczema treatment plan based on the type of eczema. However, good skin care is important for all types. This includes use of hypoallergenic soaps, short baths or showers, and regular use of skin moisturizers.

Other treatments the team may recommend for your eczema include:

• Skin creams to ease symptoms
• Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
• Antibiotics to treat any infections
• Light therapy

The team also helps identify your eczema triggers, such as stress or an allergen. They work with you, designing a plan that helps you manage or avoid these triggers. 

For expert care of your eczema, call Integrated Dermatology of 19th Street or schedule an appointment online today.