Increasing numbers of people are now suffering from eczema, which is also known as dermatitis. There are various types of eczema and a number of possible causes, some of which are explained here.

In the UK around a fifth of school age children have eczema and about one in twelve adults. The causes of the condition vary and depend on the type of eczema suffered. Atopic eczema is the most common form and is thought to be hereditary. It is linked with asthma and hayfever and often runs in families. The symptoms are itchiness, dry skin, redness or inflammation. If the skin becomes infected it may crack and weep fluid.

Allergic contact dermatitis develops when the skin of those who are prone to this kind of eczema comes in contact with a particular substance. This could be nickel in jewellery, perfumes or even rubber.

Irritant contact dermatitis is caused by contact with detergents or other chemicals and can be avoided by wearing lined rubber gloves when washing up for example or by avoiding the cause of the reaction altogether. Keeping the skin moisturised with a hypo-allergenic cream or emollient may also help.

Unlike the seborrhoeic eczema suffered by many babies, which generally lasts just a few months, this type of eczema in adults can persist unless it is treated. It is usually found on the scalp in the form of mild dandruff but can also spread to the face and chest. It is believed to be caused by a yeast growth and may be treated with an anti-fungal cream.

Discoid eczema is more usually found in adults and appears as a coin-shaped patch of red skin on the upper body or lower legs. These patches can become itchy and can weep fluid.

While the causes of eczema vary and some are yet to be explained, the increasing numbers of people suffering from skin disorders could point to stress or environmental factors such as pollution being causes.

Whichever type of eczema you suffer from, the first step to treatment is a correct diagnosis. You should visit your GP who may refer you to a skin specialist (dermatologist) for advice about treatment.

Treatments will vary depending on the type of eczema suffered. Some may require the use of emollients which are available as an ointment, cream, lotion, soap-free replacement or bath oil. Some forms of eczema respond well to the use of steroids taken either orally or applied to the skin. Steroids should never be used unless prescribed by a doctor. Anti-histamines may also be prescribed to reduce inflammation and itching.

While steroid creams may only be prescribed by a doctor, they should not be used continuously as they can thin the skin and make it more fragile. Studies have shown that the condition can be eased by regular applications of vitamin A and anti-oxidant creams to the affected areas. Vitamin A works by regulating and normalising the functions of the skin cells, restoring moisture and strengthening the skin’s own defences against the environment. Vitamin A effectively counters the negative side effects of steroids.

Eczema also causes damaging free radical activity, so the skin needs to be nourished with vitamins C, E and beta carotene. By using these, you can expect to see a significant improvement in the skin and the application of these vitamins may even reduce the need for steroids completely.

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