Eczema: No Appointment Necessary
Aired on Lifetime Television
Sunday, November 4 and December 23, 2007
Show 425
Dr. Lisa Thornton:
Do you have dry itchy skin that just doesn't seem to get better? It could be eczema.
Helen Jung, PharmD:
Eczema is a chronic skin disorder characterized by scaly and itchy rashes. Typically eczema causes skin to become itchy, red and dry, even cracked, blistery and leathery.
Dr. Lisa Thornton:
Eczema most frequently appears on the face, wrists, elbows and knees but it can show up in other areas too.
Helen Jung, PharmD:
Treatment varies depending on the appearance of the stage of the condition. Mild anti-itch lotion or topical cortical steroids may soothe less severe or healing areas, or dry, scaly lesions.
Dr. Lisa Thornton:
But you should always consult your doctor for diagnosis because eczema can be difficult to differentiate from other skin problems.
Helen Jung, PharmD:
And you should keep in mind that exposure to environmental irritants can worsen symptoms. Skin dryness, exposure to water, temperature changes and stress can also make it worse.
Dr. Lisa Thornton:
And as far as prevention, studies have shown that children who are breast fed are less likely to get eczema.