Atopic Eczema Treatment in Orange County

Eczema, also known as atopic eczema or atopic dermatitis, is a group of skin conditions that can cause redness, inflammation, and irritation. There are several types of eczema, each with unique triggers and symptoms. Some of the most common types include neurodermatitis, stasis dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, nummular eczema, dyshidrotic eczema, and contact dermatitis.

Dr. Lenore Sikorski is a dually trained dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon whose professional background and education include the treatment of all types of eczema. If you are looking for atopic eczema treatment in Orange County, we encourage you to call our office today and schedule a consultation. Dr. Sikorski can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and appropriate recommendations for treating the condition.

What Is Atopic Eczema?

Atopic eczema is a chronic skin condition characterized by intense itching. It is one of the most common types of eczema and often begins in childhood, persisting into adulthood, or can appear later in life.

Atopic eczema is part of the atopic triad, a group of three conditions that frequently appear together in people with a genetic predisposition to them. The triad includes asthma, hay fever, and atopic eczema.

Common Causes

Although the exact cause of atopic eczema is unknown, many believe it results from a combination of skin barrier defects, genetics, and immune system dysfunction. People with a family history of atopic dermatitis, eczema, asthma, or hay fever are at a higher risk of developing the condition.

An overactive immune response to irritants or allergens with an impaired skin barrier function that allows those irritants to penetrate can cause inflammation and clinical symptoms. While the exact mechanism is unknown, you may identify environmental triggers that increase your risk for a flare-up. For example, irritants such as soaps, detergents, and fragrances can increase the risk of a flare-up in some people.

Other triggers include allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander. Some people respond to dry or cold climates, while others find that emotional stress can worsen their symptoms. Certain types of synthetic fabrics or wool can irritate the skin, and skin infections can also exacerbate atopic eczema. Each of these factors affects the treatment required to address atopic eczema in Orange County.

Symptoms

The symptoms of atopic eczema or atopic dermatitis can vary depending on the severity of the condition and your age. However, the hallmark feature is dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. These primary symptoms may also include a rash on your face, neck, hands, feet, and inside the elbows or behind the knees.

When primary symptoms occur chronically, they can cause skin thickening that becomes leathery and rough, a condition called lichenification. The skin over the affected area can also become darker or lighter than the surrounding skin. In severe cases, the skin can crack, weep, or form crusts.

Symptoms can also differ based on age. For example, infants can develop rashes on their scalp, cheeks, or around their mouth, while adults more frequently have chronic dry, scaly patches on their hands, feet, neck, and around the eyes.

Persistent scratching can cause open sores that may become infected. It is important to seek medical advice for atopic dermatitis treatment in Orange County when these symptoms interfere with daily life or sleep. The skin can become painful, swollen, or show signs of an infection.

What Treatments Are Available for Atopic Eczema?

Before we prescribe treatment for your atopic eczema, you will need to schedule an appointment at our Orange County office. Dr. Sikorski will examine your skin condition and discuss your medical and skin history. Many people find that hydrating the skin with moisturizers at home can help restore the barrier. This requires regular use, even when the eczema is not active.

Ointments and creams are often more effective than lotions for severe dryness. You can also keep your skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water and limiting bath time. Use lukewarm water in the bath, as hot water can dehydrate your skin. Pat your skin dry and apply moisturizer immediately after bathing.

Other lifestyle modifications that can help reduce flare-ups are avoiding known triggers and using hypoallergenic and fragrance-free skin care products. Good nutrition and a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids can also help reduce inflammation from the inside out. Wear breathable fabrics, such as cotton, and practice relaxation techniques since stress can worsen eczema.

When these strategies are not enough to keep your atopic eczema flare-ups at bay, Dr. Sikorski can offer additional medical help, including systemic medications, light therapy, and infection treatment.

Call Us About Atopic Eczema Treatment Options in Orange County

Atopic eczema is a challenging skin condition that does not have to affect your quality of life or comfort. We encourage you to call us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sikorski, who can evaluate your condition and make appropriate recommendations for atopic eczema treatment in Orange County.

In addition to eczema treatments, our office offers advanced cosmetic options such as fillers and laser treatments. These services can complement medical skin care by addressing skin concerns like scars or pigmentation changes that may arise from chronic skin conditions like eczema. Call today to learn more about how we can help you look and feel your best.