Eczema can be mild or severe, appear like a mild rash, or erupt into painful blisters. Dr. Daniel Marshall and his team at Alpine Dermatology Clinic in Rexburg and Idaho Falls, Idaho, as well as the satellite locations in Arco and Driggs, Idaho, can help identify the type of eczema you have and develop the best treatment to relieve symptoms and prevent future flare-ups.
request an appointmentWhat is eczema?
Eczema is a general term for a variety of skin conditions caused by an overactive immune system. Some of the most common forms of eczema include:
- Atopic dermatitis
- Contact dermatitis
- Hand eczema
- Neurodermatitis
- Stasis dermatitis
Babies and children often develop eczema on their face, but it’s also common in adults and can appear anywhere on the body. Itching is the most common symptom, but symptoms vary depending on the type of eczema. Your skin may become red and swollen, turn dry and scaly, become cracked or blistered, develop a red rash, or produce sores that ooze then crust over. Some types of eczema may be painful.
Why should you get early treatment?
Many people start treatment at home using an over-the-counter product. Depending on the severity of your eczema, these products may solve the problem, but if they don’t help, please contact Alpine Dermatology Clinic so that you can get symptoms relief.
When you come in for early treatment, we can help you identify the triggers causing your eczema. Almost anything in your environment can cause the immune reaction that leads to an outbreak of eczema, from scratchy clothes and sweating, to animal dander, cleaning products, and dust. As soon as you know the trigger, you can avoid it and lower the risk for future outbreaks.
Some types of eczema, like hand dermatitis, can become chronic if they’re not properly treated as early as possible. When your hands are first exposed to irritants, the resulting rash and itch may be mild. But the damage to skin may build over time, then one day, all of those minor outbreaks turn into skin eruptions that are hard to treat.
How does Dr. Marshall treat eczema?
In addition to avoiding triggers, Dr. Marshall will begin by teaching you about skin care. It’s important to regularly and frequently apply an emollient moisturizer to protect your skin and help prevent itching. It may also help to use mild soaps that don’t contain deodorants and perfumes, and to limit the amount of time in the shower.
The doctor may prescribe topical hand creams containing a variety of medications that help reduce inflammation and relieve itching. Topical medications are also available that can help reduce flare-ups of eczema and maintain normal skin. In severe cases, oral medications to prevent infection and reduce symptoms may help. Eczema is different for each person, so Dr. Marshall always develops individualized treatment designed to work for you.