Eczema (atopic dermatitis)

Eczema, sometimes called atopic dermatitis, is a skin problem. It causes dry skin, intense itching, and a raised, reddish rash. Sometimes the rash develops clear fluid-filled blisters. It can also be scaly. The rash is not contagious. You can't catch it from others. Moisturizers and prescription creams often help.

Eczema starts with dry skin that is often very itchy. Scratching causes the dry skin to become irritated. Tiny bumps that look like little blisters may appear and ooze fluid or crust over. This can happen when the skin is rubbed or scratched or if a skin infection is present.

These symptoms may come and go. Over time, a recurring rash can become tough and thick from constant scratching.

Eczema may be mild, moderate, or severe. How much your symptoms affect you will depend on how much of your skin has a rash and how itchy it is. It also depends on how much the eczema affects your daily activities, sleep, and well-being.

The areas most often affected are the face, scalp, neck, arms, and legs. The rash is also common in areas that bend, such as the back of the knees and the inside of the elbows.

A doctor can usually tell if you have eczema by doing an exam and asking questions about your health. You may also be asked about your family health history. Sometimes a skin biopsy or allergy testing is recommended.

Treatment for eczema depends on how severe your rash is. It's usually treated with medicines that are put on your skin (topical medicines) and with moisturizers.

Getting medical treatment early may keep your symptoms from getting worse.

• Topical medicines are usually creams, gels, or ointments. They include medicines such as corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and crisaborole. These reduce itching and help the rash heal.
• Moisturizers—including skin barrier repair moisturizers—can help. They can reduce the itching, keep your rash from getting worse, and help your rash heal.

If topical medicines don't help, your doctor may prescribe other treatments. These may include pills, phototherapy, or injections. Your doctor may also talk to you about bleach baths and wet wraps.

• Use moisturizer at least twice a day.
• If your doctor prescribes a cream, use it as directed. If your doctor prescribes other medicine, take it exactly as directed.
• Wash the affected area with warm (not hot) water only. Soap can make dryness and itching worse. Pat dry.
• Apply a moisturizer after washing your hands or after bathing. Use petroleum jelly or a cream such as Cetaphil, Lubriderm, or Moisturel that does not irritate the skin or cause a rash. Apply the cream while your skin is still damp after lightly drying with a towel.
• Use cold, wet cloths to reduce itching.
• Keep cool, and stay out of the sun.
• If itching affects your sleep, ask your doctor if you can take an antihistamine that might reduce itching and make you sleepy, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Control scratching. Keep your fingernails trimmed and smooth to prevent damage to the skin when you scratch it. Wearing cotton mittens or gloves can help you stop scratching.
• Try to avoid things that trigger your rash. These may include things like allergens, such as pollen or animal dander. Harsh soaps, scratchy clothes, and stress are other examples.