Causes of Eczema

Do you often experience skin rashes and itching? If so, you might be suffering from eczema. Eczema is most commonly considered a skin allergy or sensitivity, and is also known as atopic dermatitis, or atopy. This issue is hereditary in most cases.

Common symptoms of eczema include red, inflamed, itchy, swelling, crusting, and scaling skin. There are several different types, including contact, allergic contact, seborrheic, nummular, neurodermatitis, and stasis dermatitis.

Unfortunately, doctors are unsure of exactly what causes eczema. Although it is considered a type, it is not technically a skin allergy. It is thought that it results from a combination of genetics, environment, abnormal immune system functioning, certain activities or lifestyle habits, and defects in the skin barrier causing dryness and germs.

Our skin doctor in Tarzana wants patients to know that although it runs in the family, eczema is not contagious. Furthermore, it can be treated at different levels. If the symptoms are mild, a good skin care routine may be all that is needed. Our expert in eczema in Tarzana will likely recommend certain soaps and moisturizes, short warm showers, stress management, and a humidifier, as well as a specific medication.