Eczema Specialist

Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center

Eleanor Y. Ford, MD

Dermatology Clinic located in Silver Spring, MD

Eczema symptoms can be miserable, leaving skin itchy, red, and inflamed. At Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center, located in Silver Spring, Maryland, Dr. Eleanor Y. Ford provides relief from eczema for patients of all ages. Advanced and severe cases can be disfiguring as the skin becomes thickened like leather with sores and infections. Call or book an appointment online today for a eczema consultation with Dr. Ford.

301-753-8836

Eczema

What is eczema?

Eczema is the generic name for any skin disorder or that causes an itchy rash, clinically known as dermatitis. Eczema is characterized by red, itchy skin. When it begins in early childhood, it may be part of a condition called atopic dermatitis. Some forms of this skin condition cause peeling or blistering with accompanying fluids. The condition develops anywhere on the body but is most often found on the insides of elbows and knees or on the face.

Eczema is often an allergic reaction caused by skin contact or ingestion of an allergen. It isn’t contagious, even with direct skin-to-skin contact. Unfortunately, there's no cure for eczema, but the condition is manageable, so you’ll experience improvements in comfort and appearance.

What causes eczema flare-ups?

Each patient has unique experiences, so it’s challenging to identify eczema triggers. Some common triggers for outbreaks include:

Soaps, laundry detergents, disinfectants or citrus juices
Common allergens like dust mites, pets, pollen, mold
Bacteria, viruses, and fungi
Coarse fabrics
Extreme temperatures
Food allergens like dairy or gluten
Stress and hormonal changes
Dry skin

What treatments are available for eczema?

Eczema treatment is focused on management. This may include avoidance techniques as well as treatments to soothe and hydrate the skin. Dr. Ford will recommend a skin care regime involving gentle soap-free cleansers and a good moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated and to reduce irritation.

Treatment will also address the itching. You should avoid scratching because you could damage your skin, causing infection to develop and spread. Dr. Ford may prescribe topical cortisol or calcineurin inhibitors to reduce the itchiness and rash. There are also newer treatments that are available and will be discussed during your evalutation.

Dr. Ford will also recommend lifestyle modifications to help you maintain overall good health such as following a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and adopting stress-reducing hobbies to help manage outbreaks.

If you suffer from eczema, call or book an appointment online to see Dr. Ford today. She’ll help you to get to the bottom of your condition and help you manage your symptoms. You don’t need to put up with the itchy and unattractive rash anymore.