What is ATOPIC ECZEMA?
Atopic eczema is a long-term (chronic) itchy inflammatory skin disease
Atopic eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is an itchy inflammatory skin disease. The disease can start at any time and is long-lasting (chronic). Young children are most commonly affected, usually before the age of five. It is not unusual for eczema to appear already during the first six months of life - often on the stomach, neck and a little later also in the folds of the arms and legs. That is why atopic eczema is often called diaper rash.
Do you have ATOPIC ECZEMA?
Test how severe your symptoms are! When you have completed the test, you will receive a brief description of your condition and information about the referring doctor.
Symptoms
Atopic dermatitis can look different in different people. Symptoms can be mild with complaints such as redness, dry skin and minor rashes. Other symptoms are more severe, such as persistent itching, a crusted rash and oozing sores on large parts of the body. Itching is considered the most important symptom of the disease. The severity of the eczema is evaluated by a dermatologist using various tools and assessment of the extent of the eczema and how bothersome the eczema is. It can be about the degree of redness (erythema), skin hardening (lichenification), tear marks and how elevated the eczema is. Getting a diagnosis from a doctor is important to get the right help and treatment.
Have you already been diagnosed with atopic dermatitis - and want to find out how severe your eczema is? Use the self-assessment test, based on the validated tool POEM (Patient-Oriented Eczema Measure).
Atopic eczema has a fluctuating course. This means you may have periods of fewer symptoms and periods of flare-ups, when the eczema flares up and worsens. The alopecia can be triggered by psychological factors such as stress and hormonal changes. But also by physical factors such as the skin drying out in extreme climates or by excessive use of soap and detergent. Between flare-ups, the skin may appear normal, but it is important to remember that the inflammation is still active beneath the surface. If you have chronic eczema, you often suffer from dry, thickened and itchy skin, even if you don't have a flare-up.
Atopic eczema can range from mild to moderate or severe eczema.
Mild, moderate or severe?
If you suffer from the more severe form of atopic eczema, the disease probably affects you both privately and professionally. For those living with severe atopic eczema, the itchy eczema can also lead to other problems, such as lack of sleep, poor self-esteem or depression. In severe eczema, the skin can also become infected by bacteria or viruses, and it is then important that the infection is treated.
Diagnosis
Do you suspect atopic dermatitis? Contact a doctor and ask for a referral to a dermatologist.
