Eczema (Severe)
Severe Eczema
Eczema is also known as atopic dermatitis. It is a common skin problem that looks like a rash. It is often itchy. The skin becomes red and swollen when scratched. This may be a long-term condition. The eczema may get worse in the winter when the air is cold and dry. The dyes in lotions or soaps may make eczema worse. So can taking long hot showers or baths and washing your hands too much. Stress and contact with rough materials or chemicals can also make it worse. Some people have eczema that is affected by allergies or heredity. It is important to treat eczema as soon as possible. This may help keep it from getting worse. You cannot catch eczema from someone else. It is more common in babies and children, but adults may have it as well.
Name
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) Discharge Instructions
About this topic
Eczema is also known as atopic dermatitis. It is a common skin problem that looks like a rash. It is often itchy. The skin becomes red and swollen when scratched. This may be a long-term condition. The eczema may get worse in the winter when the air is cold and dry. The dyes in lotions or soaps may make eczema worse. So can taking long hot showers or baths and washing your hands too much. Stress and contact with rough materials or chemicals can also make it worse. Some people have eczema that is affected by allergies or heredity. It is important to treat eczema as soon as possible. This may help keep it from getting worse. You cannot catch eczema from someone else. It is more common in babies and children, but adults may have it as well.
What drugs may be needed?
Soften and add moisture to your skin,Control itching or allergy,Help with swelling and redness,Loosen and remove scaly lesions,Fight an infection
What problems could happen?
Infection,Long-lasting scarring,Constant itching
When do I need to call the doctor?
Signs of a very bad reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat. Go to the ER right away.,Signs of infection. These include a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, chills, wound that will not heal.,If you feel depressed,If you are not sleeping because you are itching,If your rash has pus or yellow scabs on it,Your rash flares up after you have been around someone with cold sores or fever blisters,You are not feeling better in 2 to 3 days or you are feeling worse
Body systems
Dermatologic,Emergency Medicine,Neonatal
What are other common names?
Atopic,Atopic Dermatitis,Atopic Eczema,Atopic Neurodermatitis,Besnier Prurigo,Constitutional Dermatitis,Dermatitis,Endogenous Eczema,Flexural Eczema,Infantile Eczema,Prurigo Besnier,Prurigo Diathésique
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider’s advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you.
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