Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that causes dryness and itching. This disease is quite common, but experts still do not know the exact cause of its occurrence. This condition is sometimes confused with other skin conditions, such as psoriasis. Perhaps that is why there are so many myths about eczema.
1. Eczema is contagious
Eczema is a genetic condition, so it is not contagious. Don’t be afraid: if you’re struggling with eczema, you won’t be able to pass it on to someone else just by touching them. Conversely, you won’t get eczema by touching a person with a rash.
2. Eczema is hereditary
Sixty percent of cases of eczema appear within the first year of a child’s life. Since the disease is genetic in nature, family members with eczema increase the child’s risk of developing the disease. However, some dermatologists claim that daily use of a moisturizer helps to reduce the chance of a child developing eczema.
3. Eczema is caused by stress
There is a small but important nuance here: stress does not cause eczema, but it can trigger the disease flare-up and worsen the condition of the skin. This is due to the release of stress hormones, which can exacerbate inflammation. Stress can also cause you to scratch your eczema, which only makes it worse.
4. Eczema can be cured completely
Unfortunately, there is no way to get rid of eczema forever, but it is possible to put the disease into remission. Your main assistant in this is moisturizer – especially during the winter months. Dermatologists recommend using a gentle shower gel and then applying a moisturizer. For severe cases, topical anti-inflammatory drugs are available with and without a prescription. Some people may also need treatment with oral medications. Phototherapy is another possible treatment. So while eczema won’t go away 100%, there are many remedies and lifestyle changes that can help keep it under control.
5. Eczema is just a personal health issue
Eczema can affect not only the sufferer but also family members (for example, social interaction between couples, their children, and other family members). Let’s say someone may be taking medication for excessive sleepiness caused by an eczema treatment. This can affect a person’s mood and ability to perform daily tasks, which will also affect relationships within the family.
6. Eczema goes away on its own
In fact, if left untreated, eczema becomes more inflamed and problematic. Even a bacterial infection may occur. There are many treatment options, from the medications mentioned earlier to lifestyle changes (avoiding excessive sweating, avoiding trigger foods, moisturizing the skin). However, it is very important to start treatment before serious inflammation sets in, causing severe itching and infection.
7. Eczema only affects skin
It may seem like eczema is a problem for people who are very much concerned about their appearance, but its impact is much more substantial. This disease causes severe discomfort and often interferes with daily activities. For some people, eczema interferes with work, study, and the enjoyment of social relationships, significantly reducing the quality of life.
Studies have also shown that eczema can negatively affect a person’s general health. For example, it is noticed that adults with eczema are more likely to smoke and drink and suffer from cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes. This happens due to increased levels of stress caused by eczema, due to which people with this condition are more likely to develop addictions that damage their health in the long-term perspective.
Interesting fact about eczema – it often affects people who like wearing black socks or stockings. It turns out that the composition of most black dyes includes paraphenylenediamine – the strongest allergen that can trigger the skin reaction.
