Eczema, also called "dermatitis," is not one specific skin condition. Several types of eczema exist, and sometimes a person develops more than one type. If you suspect that you have eczema, see a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis. See below for information about the most common types of eczema:
Atopic Dermatitis
The most common type of eczema, atopic dermatitis is frequently described as "the itch that rashes." Itching can become so intense that it diminishes a person's quality of life. Children, who are most likely to develop atopic dermatitis, often cannot sleep through the night due to the intense itch.
Contact Dermatitis
Contact with everyday objects - from shampoo and jewelry to food and water - causes this very common type of eczema. When the contact leads to irritated skin, the eczema is called irritant contact dermatitis. If an allergic reaction develops on the skin after exposure, the eczema is called allergic contact dermatitis.
Dyshidrotic Dermatitis
Occurring only on the palms of the hands, sides of the fingers, and soles of the feet, this common eczema typically causes a burning or itching sensation and a blistering rash. Some patients say the blisters resemble tapioca pudding.
Other Names: Hand eczema, Pompholyx, Vesicular eczema, Vesicular palmoplantar eczema
Hand Dermatitis
Hand dermatitis is not one specific type of eczema as is atopic dermatitis or seborrheic dermatitis. Any type of eczema that develops on the hands can be classified as "hand dermatitis." Why this special classification? Hand dermatitis often has unique causes - frequently job-related - and can require special treatment considerations.
Neurodermatitis
Imagine an itch so intense that no amount of scratching brings relief and you have some idea of what it feels like to have neurodermatitis. This common eczema develops when nerve endings in the skin become irritated, triggering a severe itch-scratch-itch cycle. Common causes of nerve irritation include an insect bite and emotional stress.
Nummular Dermatitis
Often appearing after a skin injury, such as a burn, abrasion, or insect bite, the hallmark of this common eczema is unique, coin-shaped (nummular) or oval lesions. One or many patches can develop that may last for weeks or months.
Occupational Dermatitis
Occupational dermatitis is not one specific type of eczema. It is any type of eczema caused by a person's workplace. This distinct classification came about because occupational dermatitis has unique causes and a large number of people develop eczema on the job.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Usually beginning on the scalp as oily, waxy patches, this common type of eczema sometimes spreads to the face and beyond. A severe case, while rare, produces widespread lesions. Like most types of eczema, seborrheic dermatitis tends to flare in cold, dry weather.
Other Names: Seborrheic eczema, Cradle cap (occurs in infants aged 0 to 6 months), Dandruff, Seborrhea
Stasis Dermatitis
Developing in the lower legs, this common eczema occurs when circulation becomes sluggish. Poor blood flow causes fluids to build up, and the legs swell. Over time, this build up of fluids affects the skin, causing a rash that usually itches, painful sores, as well as thinning and discolored skin. Effective treatment involves treating not only the dermatitis but the circulatory problem as well.
Other Names: Gravitational dermatitis, Venous eczema, Venous stasis dermatitis
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