Several types of irritated, inflamed skin are referred to as dermatitis or eczema interchangeably. A red rash that may blister or swell in appearance is how acute dermatitis typically manifests. Due to repeated scratching, skin with chronic dermatitis may thicken, become rough, and turn darker than the surrounding skin.
Eczema types
The term “eczema” refers to skin inflammation, which can take many different forms. These varieties vary in terms of some of their distinct symptoms, where they typically manifest, and what sets them off. The National Eczema Association lists these different eczema types:
Atopic Dermatitis
Symptoms of atopic dermatitis include redness, itching, rashes, and dry, scaly skin.
Where It Shows Up: rash on the cheeks, arms, and legs; fissures behind the ears
Triggers: Although the precise causes are unclear, allergens are probably a factor.
Contact Dermatitis
Symptoms of contact dermatitis include itching, burning, and redness.
Typically, it appears on the hands (areas that touch an irritant)
Triggers include substances that irritate the skin, such as wool, chlorine, detergents, alcohols, and acidic foods.
Dyshidrotic Eczema
Symptoms of dyshidrotic eczema include flaky, scaly skin, redness, itching, and tiny blisters filled with fluid.
Where It Shows Up: Usually on the tips of the hands and feet
Stress allergies, wet hands/feet, and some metals are triggers (such as cobalt)
Nummular Eczema
Coin-shaped itching patches and dry, scaly skin are signs of nummular eczema.
It usually appears on the arms and legs, but it can spread to other parts of the body. The causes are unknown, but they may include insect bites, an inflammatory skin reaction, or dry skin.
Seborrheic dermatitis
Symptoms include redness, greasy skin, and flaking that is white and yellow.
Where It Appear: Usually on the scalp, but occasionally on the chest and back, where there are the most oil-producing glands.
Triggers: Although the precise reason is uncertain, hormones and genetics appear to be involved.
Stasis Dermatitis
Symptoms of stasis dermatitis include discomfort, swelling, redness, scaling, and swelling.
The legs, and particularly the ankles, are affected.
Triggers include anything preventing blood from flowing to the legs, such as varicose veins.
Eczema Therapy
Topical corticosteroids, topical immunomodulators, antibiotics (if an infection is suspected), or oral antihistamines are frequently used to treat the affected area. You can use one of these therapies by itself or in conjunction with others. Treatment options may also include moist dressings, light therapy, and possibly systemic therapy in addition to creams and drugs.
