Sanford North Mandan Clinic

What is eczema?

Kinsey Shultz Piatz, MD

Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is a common inflammatory skin disease that causes skin to become itchy, red and dry. The skin disease can affect any part of the body and is not contagious. Eczema most frequently appears on the face and extremities, but it can show up in other areas, too. In infants, eczema typically occurs on the forehead, cheeks, forearms, legs, scalp and neck. In children and adults, eczema typically occurs on the face, neck and the insides of the elbows, knees and ankles. Eczema is caused by a number of health conditions including genetics, allergies, physical or mental stressors or irritants. Just as each type of eczema is defined by its location, each also is caused by different triggers.

At-home Treatment

Good skin care is a key component in controlling eczema. Moisturizing, for example, is one of the most important self-care treatments for sufferers of eczema. Keeping the affected area moistened can promote skin healing and relief of symptoms.

Soaps and harsh detergents should not be used on affected skin because they can strip natural skin oils and lead to excessive dryness. Instead, using a moisturizing body wash helps maintain natural skin oils and may reduce the need to moisturize skin.

In addition to avoiding soap, products such as powders or perfume should be avoided.

Medical treatment

For some, at-home treatments are not enough. It may be time to consult a doctor if:

• Your skin becomes painful
• You suspect your skin is infected
• You've tried self-care steps without noticeable improvement
• You're so uncomfortable that you're losing sleep or are distracted from your daily routines

Your doctor will talk with you about your signs and symptoms and perform a skin test to determine if you have eczema. Depending upon the type of eczema diagnosed, your doctor may recommend an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream or may prescribe a stronger steroid cream in cases that are more severe.

Dr. Kinsey Shultz Piatz is a family medicine doctor at Sanford North Mandan Clinic. She is a graduate of the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and completed her residency at Siouxland Medical Education Foundation in Sioux City, Iowa.