The word eczema means “irritated skin”. Doctors don’t fully understand why some adults and children get eczema, but a few correlations have been observed. Family history may play a role. Experts believe there may be a correlation between where you live: eczema cases are common in dry and/or frigid climates. It also tends to affect people in cities opposed to rural areas. Finally, people with existing allergies or asthma are more likely to develop eczema.
Eczema is characterized by dry, itchy rashes of skin that tend to spread if aggravated. Avoiding the triggers above (dry skin, known allergens, and scratching) will help to prevent eczema from spreading. Ogden Clinic dermatologists also encourage people to keep their skin hydrated in the winter with a humidifier and moisturizing liberally with over-the-counter creams and ointments.
Visit an Ogden Clinic dermatologist if your eczema seems to be persistent or getting worse. Our physicians and their staff see hundreds of cases of eczema every year. The most common medication used by dermatologists is topical corticosteroids in the form of ointments, and moisturizing creams.