Eczema

Understanding Eczema in Adults and Children: A Guide to Management Consultations

If you or your child are experiencing symptoms associated with eczema, developing a clear understanding of the condition is an important first step.

Learning about the contributing factors, common presentations, and available management strategies can assist you in navigating this skin condition.

This guide provides educational information about eczema in adults and children and outlines what can be discussed during a professional consultation.

What is Eczema?

Eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can cause dry, itchy, and inflamed patches of skin.

It can affect people of all ages and may appear on areas such as the face, hands, elbows, and knees.

What causes eczema?

While the exact cause of eczema remains unknown, several factors may contribute to its development, including:

• Genetics: Eczema often runs in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition to the condition. Individuals with a family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies may have an increased risk of developing eczema themselves.
• Immune System Function: The function of the immune system plays a significant role in eczema. In individuals with eczema, the immune system may react differently to triggers such as allergens or irritants, which is associated with inflammation and skin symptoms.
• Environmental Factors: Environmental factors such as exposure to allergens, irritants, dry air, and extreme temperatures can be associated with eczema symptoms. Common triggers include dust mites, pet dander, pollen, harsh soaps, and certain fabrics.

Symptoms of Eczema:

Eczema symptoms can vary from person to person but often include:

• Persistent itching
• Red or inflamed skin
• Dry, scaly patches
• Crusting or oozing skin
• Thickened or leathery-appearing skin

Eczema commonly appears on the face, hands, wrists, elbows, knees, feet, scalp, or eyelids.

Understanding your skin’s specific pattern and triggers can be an important part of developing a suitable management plan.

At Shellharbour Skin, a consultation allows you to discuss your individual circumstances and explore management approaches suitable for your needs.

Exploring Management Strategies in a Consultation

Eczema is a chronic condition, but a consultation can help you explore various approaches that support your skin health and comfort.. Options that may be discussed include:

• Moisturisers:  Regular use of moisturising products is central to eczema management. Your clinician can discuss options to support the skin’s barrier and hydration levels..
• Topical Steroids: A registered medical practitioner may discuss prescription topical steroids as part of a plan for managing inflammation and itch.
• The discussion will include safe application, duration of use, and monitoring considerations..
• Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors: In your consultation, non-steroidal medications like topical calcineurin inhibitors may be discussed. We will explain their mechanism and why they might be considered as an alternative approach, particularly for sensitive areas such as the face, eyelids, and groin.
• Antihistamines: Oral antihistamines may be discussed to help manage itch or discomfort during flare-ups.
• Avoiding Triggers: Your clinician can help you identify potential irritants or allergens — such as certain fabrics, soaps, or environmental factors — and discuss whether further investigations or referrals (e.g., allergy testing) might be appropriate.Wet Wrap
• Therapy: This approach involves applying moisturisers or prescribed creams to the skin and covering it with damp dressings.
• During consultation, your clinician will explain the purpose, process, and precautions involved.
• Phototherapy: Light therapy, or phototherapy, is another option that can be discussed. A consultation will cover how controlled exposure to ultraviolet light is used as part of a management plan for eczema and what the process involves.

Risks and Considerations

All medications, topical products, and in-clinic procedures carry potential risks.
 These may include:

• Temporary redness or irritation
• Skin dryness or peeling
  Pigmentary changes
• Allergic or sensitivity reactions
  Infection or scarring (rare)

Your clinician will review these considerations and provide guidance for safe product use, aftercare, and follow-up.

All consultations and management discussions at Shellharbour Skin are conducted by registered health practitioners or qualified dermal clinicians practising within their professional scope.

Conclusion:

Living with eczema can be challenging, but gaining the right knowledge about your management options is a proactive step that helps you make informed decisions about your skin health.. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and strategies available for adults and children, individuals can make informed decisions about their skin care.

If you or your child are experiencing concerns related to eczema, a consultation with Dr Barney Gordon provides an opportunity for a personalised evaluation and a discussion of your management plan. The goal of a consultation is to provide you with the information and support needed to navigate the condition.