Rapid Communication - Archives of General Internal Medicine (2023) Volume 7, Issue 4

Beyond the Itch: Managing Eczema in Everyday Life

Cheang Xiu^*

Department of Dermatology, Peking University, China

*Corresponding Author:

Cheang Xiu
Department of Dermatology
Peking University
China
E-mail: xiu258@yahoo.com

Received:29-Jul-2023, Manuscript No. AAAGIM-23-109475; Editor assigned:03-Aug-2023, PreQC No. AAAGIM-23-109475 (PQ); Reviewed:17-Aug-2023, QC No. AAAGIM-23-109475; Revised:22-Aug-2023, Manuscript No. AAAGIM-23-109475 (R); Published:30-Aug-2023, DOI:10.35841/ aaaa-7.4.187

Citation: Xiu C. Beyond the Itch: Managing Eczema in Everyday Life. Arch Gen Intern Med. 2023;7(4):187

Introduction

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Its hallmark symptom, the maddening itch, can make daily life a constant struggle. Yet, there is more to eczema than just the itch. It can disrupt sleep, hinder social interactions, and lead to feelings of frustration and self-consciousness. Our mission in this book is to go beyond the surface and delve into the depths of eczema management. We will explore the underlying causes, the triggers that exacerbate the condition, and the various treatment options available. But this journey goes even further. We understand that eczema is not just a skin condition; it is an integral part of your life[1].

Here, we will address the emotional toll of living with eczema and provide coping mechanisms to navigate the rollercoaster of emotions that often accompany it. We will share stories of individuals who have found strength and resilience in the face of eczema's challenges, proving that you are not alone in this struggle. As we venture through the pages of "Beyond the Itch," we will equip you with practical strategies for managing eczema in your day-to-day life. From skincare routines to dietary considerations, we will provide a holistic approach to ensure your well-being remains a top priority[2].

Furthermore, we recognize that eczema affects not only the individuals living with it but also their loved ones. This book aims to foster understanding and support among family members and friends, creating a strong network of allies in the fight against eczema. Above all, we want to instill hope. Eczema can be a formidable adversary, but with the right knowledge and tools, you can regain control over your life. Beyond the itch lies a world of possibilities, and we invite you to embrace it fully. Atopic eczema, commonly known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. This Cochrane Review is concerned with atopic eczema, which will be referred to as eczema from here on. It is a severe disease with a complex aetiology and a significant disease burden for sufferers. Itching, dryness, erythema, weeping, vesicles, and skin thickening, hyper/hypopigmentation, and excoriation are the most common symptoms. Eczema is typically identified clinically. Serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels can occasionally help in diagnosis. A biopsy for histology is rarely necessary, although it might be useful if there is diagnostic ambiguity, especially in adults. If there is a suspicion of comorbid allergy, further testing in the form of patch testing or'skin prick' testing (which involves putting a drop of liquid onto the forearm that contains a material the patient may be allergic to) may be needed[3].

Eczema is the most common chronic inflammatory skin disease, affecting up to 20% of children and 10% of adults in developed nations. A systematic review found that the prevalence of eczema is growing in Africa, East Asia, Western Europe, and portions of Northern Europe. Because over threequarters of cases begin in children under the age of five, research has primarily focused on juvenile incidence. While adults have fewer cases of eczema, their symptoms are typically more severe. It is unknown whether rising levels of eczema in adults are attributable to disease persistence or new disease start later in life. Eczema is a chronic inflammatory illness with a number of comorbidities. Eczema is difficult for everyone concerned because of its high occurrence in childhood, chronicity, wide range of impact on quality of life for patients and their families, socioeconomic load, and limited therapy options. Its management is difficult, and effective care frequently necessitates a wellplanned, interdisciplinary strategy. Causes The increased global incidence of eczema has prompted researchers to wonder if environmental factors are to blame for this public health issue. According to research, the way genes interact with the environment plays a function in eczema. Genetic mutations have been linked to eczema, with lossoffunction mutations (leading in reduced or deleted function of the resultant protein) in the gene coding filaggrin (FLG) being the most frequently documented. FLG is essential for keratin filament aggregation, organising lamellar lipid bilayers, hydration conservation, and epidermal pH regulation. The current knowledge centres on disruption of the skin barrier, which leads to increased epidermal permeability, pathological inflammation, dryness, and percutaneous heightened susceptibility to allergens. There is mounting evidence that microorganisms on the skin, notably Staphylococcus epidermidis, have a role in eczema. Exacerbations of disease (also known as flares) have been linked to large losses in skin microbiome diversity and an increase in the number of both S. aureus and S. epidermidis[4].

Environmental variables, such as skin washing, may also contribute to friction damage; hence advice on the best frequency of bathing is variable. There is apparently a link between having eczema and living in a 'hard water' environment (water with a high mineral concentration). Environmental allergens, including but not limited to house dust mites and food protein, have been shown in animal studies to interact with the immune system via antigen presenting cells (cells that process antigens/allergens and then expose them to the immune system), resulting in hypersensitivity. This can aggravate eczema and may also be a risk factor for respiratory and food allergies. Up to the age of 16, eczema is connected with IgE sensitisation to both dietary allergens and aeroallergens[5].

Conclusion

A dermatologist may be recommended by your primary care physician to diagnose and treat your eczema. A dermatologist is a doctor who specialises in skin disorders. It may take several weeks after therapy for your skin to clear entirely. Topical or oral drugs provided by your healthcare professional aid in the relief of your symptoms. Contact your provider if your symptoms worsen following therapy or do not go away after a few weeks.

References

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