Usually, eczema and rashes affect your physical appearance and lower your self-esteem because you are not confident in how you look. For this reason, most people try both cosmetic and medical methods to help improve their appearance. Normally rashes appear first, and if itching persists, it’s called eczema. Therefore, if you or your loved one has rashes or eczema and seeking a solution, eczema & rashes, Santa Barbara specialists offer the help you need. The specialists are qualified and experienced dermatologists who ensure your needs are met. Let’s learn more about eczema & rashes below.
What is the difference between rashes and eczema?
A rash is usually caused by skin irritation or allergic reactions. Other rashes also form in response to particular medications. In other cases, it can be due to an unwanted effect of a disease like shingles and lupus. On the other hand, eczema usually forms when a rash causes severe itching, which persists for a long time. The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis, characterized by small bumps, redness, and oozing pus. It can also present as scalp or hand rashes or rashes that leave a scaly plaque on your legs or arms. Allergic reactions to cleaning products or chemicals can also lead to the formation of eczema. Some factors that worsen your eczema include stress, sweat, and temperature changes. In some cases, genetics also is a risk factor for developing eczema.
When should you be concerned about your eczema?
Mostly, rashes usually make your skin appear dry and very itchy. Eczema can persist for weeks or even months, causing symptoms such as small raised bumps, itchiness during the night, cracked skin, hay fever attacks, sensitive skin, or red to brown-gray patches on your skin. Eczema can form on your hands, upper chest, neck, and feet. It can also appear on your scalp and face. Most rashes are not caused by eczema. However, if your rashes cause persistent skin irritation, you are advised to seek medical help.
How are eczema rashes treated?
In most cases, rashes usually heal on their own after the irritant or allergen is removed. If they do not heal on their own, your care provider may prescribe some oral prescription or topical medications. Of importance to note is that eczema cannot be treated. Your care provider only manages your symptoms and prevents them from flaring up. Some of the treatment options that are part of your customized plan include topical or oral medications, wet dressings, antihistamines, light therapy, antibiotic medications, specialized moisturizers, or antifungal creams. Your health care specialist also educates you on the various preventive measures to prevent your eczema from flaring up, like lifestyle changes like avoiding extreme wind and temperature. Doing so plays an essential role in preventing eczema from worsening and also reduces its severity.
Eczema or skin rashes lower your self-esteem, leading to stigmatization if they are severe. Most people usually associate eczema with some health condition that can be spread through contact. People stay away from you because they assume that they can also develop the same condition through contact. Therefore, if you have rashes and seek treatment, you can start by booking your appointment at LUX Dermatology today.
