The first step in effective treatment of eczema is a correct diagnosis. It is very important to see a general practitioner in the first instance, who may make a referral to a specialist dermatologist for further diagnosis and treatment. Atopic eczema Atopic eczema is the commonest form of eczema and is closely linked with asthma and hayfever. It can affect both children and adults, usually running in families. Other symptoms include overall dryness of the skin, redness and inflammation.
Constant scratching can also cause the skin to split, leaving it prone to infection.
Treatments include emollients to maintain skin hydration and steroids to reduce inflammation. Allergic contact dermatitis Develops when the body s immune system reacts against a substance in contact with the skin. The allergic reaction often develops over a period of time through repeated contact with the substance. For example, an allergic reaction may occur to nickel, which is often found in earrings, belt buckles and jeans buttons. Reactions can also occur after contact with other substances such as perfumes and rubber.