Eczema which in medical terms is known by the name of Atopic dermatitis is common dermatological condition causing the skin to become erythematous and itchy. This condition is seen mostly in infants and children but even adults tend to get it. Eczema is a chronic condition and tends to flare up from time to time with periods of remission in between.
Eczema is often seen in association with conditions like hay fever and asthma. There is no cure for this condition but treatments are available to calm down the symptoms and prevent new outbreak. This is usually done by applying moisturizers to the affected area of the skin regularly and avoiding harsh cosmetic products like soaps.
Dr. Rajeshwari’s Clinic provides the best consultation and treatment plan, and has successfully treated many patients with treatments as mentioned above with minimal to no side effects.
Causes
The function of a healthy skin is to keep the skin surface moist and protect the body from various allergens, bacteria and other harmful substances. Eczema results when due to certain gene variations the skin is not able to perform its natural function. This results in the skin losing its moisture and become vulnerable to infections due to exposure to harmful environmental allergens. In some instances, intake of certain food products may also result in a flare up of Eczema, especially in children.
Symptoms
The symptoms of eczema are quite variable and differ from individual to individual. These include:
Dry skin
Itching, worse at night
Red patches, especially on the hands, feet, ankles, face, wrists and upper chest
Raised lesions with fluid oozing from them when scratched
Cracked scaly skin
How is Hair Loss Diagnosed?
For a definitive diagnosis of the cause of the Hair Loss, the physician will first take a detailed history of the patient, including personal and family history. Once history taking is done then certain investigative tests will be ordered to come to the bottom of the cause of the Hair Loss. These tests include: Pull Test: This test involves pulling of a few strands of hair forcefully to check whether any hairs come out of their groove. This gives the physician an idea of whether the quality of hair of the patient is healthy and strong. Skin Lesion KOH Test: This test involves scraping some samples from the scalp of the patient to observe the hair roots. This gives the physician an idea as to whether there is an infection responsible for Hair Loss. Blood Test: These are done to identify any underlying medical condition like a thyroid disorder that may be responsible for Hair Loss in the patient. Microscopy: This is done to observe the hair shaft and see whether there is any abnormality there that may be causing the Hair Loss.
Treatment
The primary treatment for Eczema is the use of antihistamines which for relief from itching. These medications work by blocking the production of histamines by the immune system of the body that results in allergic reactions on exposure to allergens. Some of the common antihistamines for Eczema include cetirizine, Benadryl, and Allegra.
Low dose steroids are also sometimes prescribed for symptom relief from eczema. In case of low dose steroid are ineffective then high doses may have to be given by the treating physician. Oral corticosteroids are prescribed by physicians in cases of severe Eczema. They are only given for a limited period of time due to their significant side effect profile.
For infections as a result of Eczema, the physician may prescribe a course of antibiotics. It is highly recommended for people with eczema to consult with their physician for the best treatment plan.
Can Hair Loss be Prevented?
Hair Loss caused due to the normal process of aging cannot be prevented. However, steps can be taken to prevent loss and damage by avoiding chemical use in the hair like hair color and hair dyes. It is also recommended not to use hair dryers for long periods of time as it literally pulls the hair out from their shafts thereby damaging it. This makes the hair weak and brittle.
For healthy hair, it is always best to practice good hair hygiene by shampooing it regularly. Additionally, eating a diet rich in proteins, vitamin B, and iron is also quite effective in preventing hair loss. Keeping the thyroid levels under control and seeking immediate levels if diagnosed with an underactive or overactive thyroid is also recommended to prevent Hair Loss.
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Eczema
Introduction
Eczema which in medical terms is known by the name of Atopic dermatitis is common dermatological condition causing the skin to become erythematous and itchy. This condition is seen mostly in infants and children but even adults tend to get it. Eczema is a chronic condition and tends to flare up from time to time with periods of remission in between.
Eczema is often seen in association with conditions like hay fever and asthma. There is no cure for this condition but treatments are available to calm down the symptoms and prevent new outbreak. This is usually done by applying moisturizers to the affected area of the skin regularly and avoiding harsh cosmetic products like soaps.
Dr. Rajeshwari’s Clinic provides the best consultation and treatment plan, and has successfully treated many patients with treatments as mentioned above with minimal to no side effects.
Causes
The function of a healthy skin is to keep the skin surface moist and protect the body from various allergens, bacteria and other harmful substances. Eczema results when due to certain gene variations the skin is not able to perform its natural function. This results in the skin losing its moisture and become vulnerable to infections due to exposure to harmful environmental allergens. In some instances, intake of certain food products may also result in a flare up of Eczema, especially in children.
Symptoms
The symptoms of eczema are quite variable and differ from individual to individual. These include:
Dry skin
Itching, worse at night
Red patches, especially on the hands, feet, ankles, face, wrists and upper chest
Raised lesions with fluid oozing from them when scratched
Cracked scaly skin
Treatment
The primary treatment for Eczema is the use of antihistamines which for relief from itching. These medications work by blocking the production of histamines by the immune system of the body that results in allergic reactions on exposure to allergens. Some of the common antihistamines for Eczema include cetirizine, Benadryl, and Allegra.
Low dose steroids are also sometimes prescribed for symptom relief from eczema. In case of low dose steroid are ineffective then high doses may have to be given by the treating physician. Oral corticosteroids are prescribed by physicians in cases of severe Eczema. They are only given for a limited period of time due to their significant side effect profile.
For infections as a result of Eczema, the physician may prescribe a course of antibiotics. It is highly recommended for people with eczema to consult with their physician for the best treatment plan.