What Is Weeping Eczema?
Many people have heard of eczema, know someone with eczema or have experienced it themselves. But while eczema is a common skin condition, many people are unaware of the different types of eczema. Weeping eczema is an extreme type.
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Description
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Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is a skin condition that affects the dermal layers of the skin. The most prominent symptoms of eczema are severely dry skin accompanied by an intense itchy feeling. Eczema usually starts in one area of the body and then continues to spread sporadically throughout the rest of the body. Nevertheless, several variations of the disease and the progression of eczema make it hard to diagnose and even treat at times.
Symptoms
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Weeping eczema is quite different from traditional forms of eczema because of the weeping stage that sufferers endure. Primarily, weeping eczema begins just like traditional eczema with red, itchy skin. However, as weeping eczema progresses, the skin becomes raw and severely irritated and the skin tears and bleeds. This is called the wet stage. After this stage, the skin begins to produce pus from under the dry cracked outer layer of skin. Pus then leaks from the dry layer almost like tears, hence the name weeping eczema. Although there are other severe and varied forms of traditional eczema, weeping eczema sets itself apart from the rest with these key symptoms.
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Causes
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There are no direct links to what actually causes weeping eczema. Eczema in general is thought to be a somewhat hereditary skin condition that is passed on to children by one or both parents.
Treatment
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Treatment options for weeping eczema are similar to traditional eczema treatments. Oral and topical corticosteroids are prescribed to help alleviate the irritation. Ultraviolet light therapy is also a successful way to treat eczema. While this will help treat the symptoms, it will not provide full eczema remediation.
Tips for Sufferers
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Weeping eczema is a severe skin condition that should be treated by a licensed dermatologist. While your dermatologist may be able to provide medication to help in the treatment of weeping eczema, it is important for sufferers to also help to improve their condition. Refrain from wearing clothing that is not constructed from natural fibers like cotton and hemp. Polyester is a man-made fiber that seems to complicate all forms of eczema, leading to an increase in symptoms and suffering. Keep the skin well moisturized with vitamin E capsules. It is important to nourish the skin from within, so sufferers should consume vitamin E and apply it topically to any affected areas. Always keep the skin clean and keep the body nourished by consuming plenty of water.
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References
- Photo Credit skin image by Robert Kelly from Fotolia.com
