Skin Diseases
Eczema
Although eczema often looks like "just a patch of redness," it is in fact a skin-barrier issue that affects a person's daily life. Presenting with itching, dryness, burning and periodic flare-ups, this condition can create the feeling that it "just won't go away." In this article we look at what eczema is, its types, treatment approaches, its relationship with nutrition based on current scientific data, and common misinformation found online.
What Is Eczema?
Eczema is a general heading describing conditions in which an inflammatory response predominates in the skin. The core issue is the weakening of the skin’s protective barrier structure.
What Are the Symptoms of Eczema?
Intense itching, dryness and flaking of the skin, redness and tenderness, occasional weeping/crusting, cracks on the hands, and thickening of the skin in long-standing cases. Symptoms appear in flare-ups. In babies the face/trunk, in children the inner elbows/backs of the knees, and in adults the hands/arms/neck are more commonly affected.
What Causes Eczema? There Is No Single Cause
Genetic predisposition, weakening of the skin barrier, immune response, irritants (frequent hand-washing, hot water, harsh soap, detergent, fragrance), allergens (pollen, house dust, animal dander), disruption of microbial balance, stress and disrupted sleep.
Types of Eczema
- Atopic Dermatitis: A type that often begins in childhood, in which itching/dryness predominates; it can also continue into adulthood.
- Contact Eczema (Contact Dermatitis): It has two main groups, irritant (detergent, friction) and allergic (nickel, fragrances, cosmetics).
- Seborrheic Dermatitis: A chronic type seen on the face, eyebrows, sides of the nose, scalp, mid-chest and ears; it is thought to be stress-related.
- Asteatotic Eczema: Occurs in older age as the skin’s oil content decreases; it has a “crackled porcelain” appearance.
- Nummular Eczema: Round, coin-sized itchy lesions on the arms/legs/hands.
- Gravitational Eczema: Develops on the legs of people who work standing up, due to varicose veins/circulatory problems.
- Stress Eczema: A picture in which stress is the trigger.
Eczema in Babies and Children
It usually has a hereditary basis and begins on the face/forehead/scalp. A family history of atopic disease increases the risk. In severe cases food allergy testing may be considered, but routine testing is not recommended; it should be assessed with a pediatrician/allergist.
How Is Eczema Diagnosed?
It is diagnosed through clinical examination; there is no specific blood test. Since it can be confused with a fungal infection or psoriasis, an examination is essential.
How Is Eczema Treated?
Moisturizing (the fundamental step), topical treatments, avoiding triggers, and systemic approaches in severe cases. The treatment plan should be personalized; there is no “single treatment that works for everyone.”
How Does Eczema Go Away?
It follows a fluctuating course; it is a process of bringing it under control rather than a complete “cure.” Some childhood cases can ease over time.
What Helps With Eczema Itching?
Regular moisturizer, short lukewarm baths, neutral/fragrance-free cleansers, keeping the nails short, stress management, and physician-recommended topical treatments.
Is Eczema Contagious? When Should You See a Doctor?
It is not contagious. If there is a widespread/rapidly worsening rash, severe pain/fever, yellow crusting (suspected infection), complaints around the eyes, or itching in babies that disrupts sleep/feeding, it should be evaluated without delay.
Common Mistakes Made Online About Eczema
The claim that “there is a single treatment that suits everyone” is false; the idea that “what is natural is harmless” is false (herbal products also carry a risk of allergy/interaction); and the “just applying cream is enough” approach is incomplete.
The Gut-Skin Axis
An imbalance in the gut microbiota can affect the immune response and be reflected in skin inflammation; however, the claim that “if we just fix the gut, eczema will completely disappear” does not reflect reality.
The Relationship Between Eczema and Nutrition
- Probiotics/Prebiotics: A 2024 study in the journal Allergy by the EAACI showed that eczema complaints decreased in children using probiotics.
- Vitamin D: A 2024 meta-analysis (686 participants, 11 RCTs) showed that vitamin D supplementation reduced eczema severity.
- Omega-3: With its anti-inflammatory effect, it may be supportive.
- Pregnancy/Breast Milk: A 2023 systematic review shows that nutrition during pregnancy may affect the baby’s risk of eczema; no guideline recommends avoiding specific foods during pregnancy.
Ultra-Processed Foods
They can negatively affect the gut microbiota and increase inflammation. Psoriasis, eczema and rheumatism are called “sibling diseases” on a shared inflammatory basis; about 30% of psoriasis patients can develop joint involvement (psoriatic arthritis).
What Should People With Eczema Avoid Eating?
There is no single “eczema diet.” General tendencies: highly processed/sugary foods, a low-fiber diet, individually known allergens, and excessive fried/saturated fat. Assessment should be done with a physician/dietitian; uncontrolled elimination diets can lead to deficiencies, especially in children.
To Protect Against Eczema
Not scratching, using moisturizer regularly, avoiding hot water/harsh soap, wearing gloves when cleaning, wearing wool without letting it touch the skin, managing stress, staying away from known allergens, and planning dietary changes with a physician.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does eczema get worse at night?
Night-time itching can feel more pronounced because of skin dryness, increased warmth, and the reduction of distractions. Regular barrier care can lessen this complaint in some people.
Which foods are supportive for eczema?
Omega-3 sources such as salmon and walnuts, vitamin C-rich fruits such as oranges and kiwi, probiotic foods such as yoghurt and kefir, and adequate vitamin D intake can be supportive in relieving eczema symptoms. However, these foods are not a substitute for treatment; they should be evaluated together with your physician's advice.
Are eczema, psoriasis, and rheumatism related to one another?
These three diseases can develop on a shared immune and inflammatory basis. In a person who has one of them, the risk of developing another may increase; therefore a holistic assessment is important.
Can eczema occur at any age?
Yes. Although it more often begins in childhood, it can also start in adulthood.
This article is for general information purposes and does not replace medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment, be sure to consult a specialist.
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