Debunking the Common Myths about Eczema

A distressing and difficult illness to cure, eczema is difficult to manage. An estimated 35 million Americans deal with this irritable skin ailment yearly. However, there are still many misconceptions about eczema despite its prevalence. Here are some of the most widespread misconceptions regarding eczema Coupeville, along with the facts that set them straight.

Eczema is infectious

There has been much interest in whether or not eczema may be passed from person to person. No, that is not the case. Since a virus does not cause illness, it cannot be transmitted by casual contact with another person. Some families seem predisposed to developing the ailment, and those who have asthma or seasonal allergies are also more likely to have bouts of eczema.

Stress causes eczema

There is a nuance here that is worth noting: although stress is not directly responsible for eczema, it may certainly aggravate existing cases. Hormones produced in response to stress are known to have a role in promoting inflammation. The itching and irritation that may result from being under stress can also aggravate eczema.

Mindful meditation and exercise may help you manage your eczema because of the correlation between the two. Emory University researchers conducted a short pilot study on the effects of meditation on itchy skin in August 2013. Participants reported feeling less emotionally affected by their itchy skin after completing the eight-week course. (Those who took part in the research had itchy skin but not necessarily eczema.) Furthermore, after beginning a meditation practice, they noted an improvement in their sleep quality and their capacity to handle stress and maintain interpersonal connections.

Eczema only affects children

Although eczema is most common among infants, anybody may get this irritating skin disease at any time. Because of this, you must keep up with your regular moisturizing routine using a high-quality skin care product and watch out for any eczema indications. However, there is no guarantee that you or your offspring will have eczema simply because it runs in the family.

Eczema is something you will eventually grow out of.

True, atopic dermatitis is more common among infants and kids. About 90% of those who acquire atopic dermatitis do so before age five. It is also true that many kids’ eczema improves or goes away as they age. However, some people’s eczema may last much longer, and its severity might vary over time. It is possible to have a recurrence of your eczema even after you believe it is entirely gone.

Additionally, there are other forms of eczema than atopic dermatitis. Some are often seen in adults, whereas others affect younger people. Stasis dermatitis, for instance, is often seen in individuals with impaired circulation, particularly in the legs.

Eczema has only one type

Eczema is a catchall word for skin disorders that all cause itching. The most common eczema, atopic dermatitis, manifests as itchy, red, and scaly patches on the skin. There is also contact dermatitis, which refers to an allergic reaction to anything that comes into contact with your skin; dyshidrotic eczema, which creates blisters on your hands and feet; nummular eczema, also called discoid eczema, which induces stubborn coin-shaped spots; seborrheic dermatitis, also renowned as dandruff.

Eczema affects everyone differently and may range in severity, so it is crucial to discuss your symptoms with a medical professional to choose the best course of therapy. Though eczema may be disabling, many people find treatment and learn to live with it. Don’t let any myths cloud your judgment about this skin condition.