Eczema is a skin condition that causes parts of the skin to become itchy and inflamed. When this is aggravated, the itchiness can worsen and the skin can become dry, appear red/pink in colour and begin to crack.
The cause of Eczema is not clear and not specific to one single reason. However, causes of eczema typically are down to:
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Genetic
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Age (common in children)
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Food allergies
Eczema can be troublesome for those working in jobs that involve contact with irritant chemicals and materials. There are many factors that can trigger an eczema flare-up, so it is important to be mindful of the list below:
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Contact with soaps, detergents and any other chemicals that are applied to the skin
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Exposure to heat, dust, wool clothing and pets
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Worsens when the person has fallen ill (generic conditions like a cold or cough)
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Stress
Treatments are available for eczema to help control the condition but not cure it. These treatments will put the affected area into remission so there are no signs of it for a period of time:
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Emollients
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Topical corticosteroids
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Dietary changes
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Self-care
If left untreated, eczema can persist for months or in some cases even years, worsening over time. This can also be the case if treatments are stopped too soon.
