What Is Eczema?
If you've ever dealt with red, itchy skin, you're not alone. Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common health condition that affects millions of people, including newborns and children. It involves an overreacting immune system, leading to redness, inflammation, and itchy patches on various areas of the body, including the hands, face, and other parts of the body. Infantile eczema is a form of the condition that affects babies and young children, though adults can also experience flare-ups throughout their lives. Dr. Adam Aldahan, a double board-certified dermatologist, treats people with eczema of all ages and specializes in managing difficult cases. Schedule a consultation at Palm Beach Dermatology in Boca Raton, FL for eczema treatment.
Which Eczema Treatment Options Provide Relief?
Eczema treatment aims to reduce inflammation, relieve itching, and prevent flare-ups. Depending on the severity of your eczema, Dr. Aldahan may recommend a combination of topical treatments, oral medications, or other therapies. For mild cases, over-the-counter topical steroids, like hydrocortisone creams and antihistamines (Benadryl), can provide relief from signs and symptoms of eczema. For more moderate to severe cases, prescription medications might include prescription-strength steroid creams, immunomodulators, or advanced biologics, like Dupixent®. These treatments work to suppress the immune system's overreaction and reduce inflammation. In particularly difficult cases, Dr. Aldahan offers an eczema "boot camp," a specialized and intensive treatment plan aimed at managing severe symptoms, especially for infantile eczema. For those with contact dermatitis or skin allergies, skin allergy counseling and patch testing are available to identify allergens and triggers that may be contributing to the condition. Preventing flare-ups and reducing symptoms involves following a consistent care routine, including the use of creams and ointments, and remembering to always apply moisturizer after a bath or shower to soothe and protect irritated skin.
What Does Eczema Look Like?
The appearance of eczema can vary, but common signs and symptoms are often recognizable. Whether it's eczema on the hands, eczema on the face, or other parts of the body, there are a few clear indicators. Typical eczema characteristics include:
- Red, itchy, and dry skin that often starts before a rash becomes visible
- Scaly, cracked skin or small, raised bumps that may appear on affected areas, such as the hands or face
- Skin may thicken or darken over time, especially with frequent scratching
- In more severe cases, pus-filled blisters can develop, sometimes leading to a yellowish or light brown crust — a sign of possible infection that needs medical attention
- Commonly appears in the creases of the elbows and knees of infants while adults may notice it on the face, neck, or hands
These signs may seem similar to psoriasis. Is there a difference between eczema and psoriasis? Although these conditions look similar, they are distinct skin conditions with different causes and treatment approaches. Both can lead to red, itchy skin, but psoriasis is an autoimmune disease while eczema is primarily an inflammatory response triggered by allergies, genetics, and environmental factors. Psoriasis tends to cause thicker, silvery scales, whereas eczema usually results in dry patches and inflammation. It's important to have a proper diagnosis to ensure you receive the correct treatment.
Palm Beach Dermatology Reviews
Great doctor makes you feel super at ease and very thorough! So glad to have found this office ! Dr Adam is the best !
I have had two visits with Dr. Aldahan and he was nothing but amazing! He’s very thorough and takes his time during the visits. I had a procedure and he was super gentle . A great experience over all with the office staff as well.
Dr. Aldahan is very capable of taking care of my skin problems even after many years of treatment by others. This was my third visit with Dr. Aldahan and I have a two-month checkup scheduled.
The best, smart, nice knowledgeable, professional, up to date and hands on.
Very nice new office! Everyone was extremely welcoming and Dr. Aldahan listened to all my concerns and was very insightful. Would highly recommend.
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Address Eczema with Advanced Care
Living with eczema doesn't have to mean dealing with discomfort every day. Whether managing eczema on the hands, treating infantile eczema, or identifying triggers through skin allergy counseling and testing, Dr. Adam Aldahan and our team at Palm Beach Dermatology are here to help. From advanced treatments like Dupixent to personalized care for related conditions like asthma and seasonal allergies, you can trust that your skin will be in good hands.