Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Gambaran keseluruhan

Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that makes your skin dry, itchy, and inflamed. It often starts in childhood but can happen at any age.

Yes, eczema is very common. In the UK, about 1 in 5 children and 1 in 10 adults have it at some point.

Eczema can affect people of all ages, but it often begins in early childhood. Many children outgrow it, but some continue to have symptoms as adults.

Gejala

Gejala biasa

• Dry, sensitive skin
• Intense itching, especially at night
• Red, inflamed patches of skin
• Rough, scaly, or thickened skin
• Small bumps that may ooze fluid when scratched
• Dark or light spots on the skin after a flare-up

Gejala pada kanak-kanak

• Usually appears on the face, scalp, and outer parts of arms and legs
• May cause crying or fussiness due to itching
• Can interfere with sleep and daily activities
• Often starts before age 2

Gejala pada orang dewasa yang lebih tua

• Often affects the hands, neck, and flexures (inside of elbows, behind knees)
• Skin may become very dry, cracked, and thick (lichenification)
• Itching can be severe and disrupt sleep
• May have long-lasting or recurring flares

Punca

Punca utama

• A combination of genetic and environmental factors
• A defect in the skin barrier that lets moisture out and irritants in
• An overactive immune system that responds to triggers

Faktor risiko

• Family history of eczema, asthma, or hay fever
• Having allergies, such as food allergies or hay fever
• Living in cold, dry climates or in areas with high pollution
• Exposure to harsh soaps, detergents, or chemicals

Bila perlu berjumpa doktor

Jumpa doktor dengan segera jika:

• If you have signs of a skin infection (spreading redness, oozing, crusts, fever)
• If itching is severe and affecting daily life or sleep
• If symptoms get worse despite using moisturisers and other home care

Buat temujanji rutin jika:

• If symptoms appear for the first time and you are not sure what they are
• If you need a management plan or prescription medication
• If the condition is impacting your mental health or quality of life

Diagnosis

A doctor or nurse will usually diagnose eczema by looking at your skin and asking about your symptoms and family history. No specific test is needed.

Ujian yang mungkin dilakukan

• Sometimes a skin prick test or blood test to check for allergies
• Rarely, a small skin sample (biopsy) if the diagnosis is uncertain

Apa yang diharapkan semasa temujanji anda

Your doctor will examine your skin, ask when symptoms started, what makes them worse, and if you have other allergies. They may also recommend keeping a diary of triggers.

Rawatan

Treatment focuses on moisturising the skin, reducing inflammation, and managing triggers. Most people can control eczema with a good skincare routine and if needed, medications from their doctor.

Penjagaan diri di rumah

• Moisturise (emollient) every day, even when skin looks clear
• Use fragrance-free, mild cleansers and avoid hot water
• Apply moisturiser immediately after bathing to lock in moisture
• Avoid scratching — keep nails short and wear soft gloves at night
• Identify and avoid triggers such as certain soaps, wool, stress, or dust mites

Rawatan perubatan

Doctors may prescribe topical treatments (creams or ointments) that reduce inflammation or fight infection. They may also recommend light therapy or oral medications for severe cases. Always use treatments as directed.

Hidup dengan keadaan ini

Living with eczema means keeping a consistent moisturising routine and avoiding triggers. It may take patience to find what works for you, but most people learn to manage flare-ups.

Tip gaya hidup

• Use a humidifier in dry indoor air
• Choose soft, cotton clothing instead of wool or synthetic fabrics
• Avoid extreme temperatures and sweating where possible
• Manage stress with relaxation techniques or hobbies
• Keep a diary to identify personal triggers

Diet dan senaman

For most people, diet is not a major trigger. If you suspect a food allergy, see a doctor before cutting out foods. Exercise is good for overall health; shower and moisturise after sweating.

Kesihatan mental dan kesejahteraan emosi

Eczema can be emotionally tough. Itching, visible rashes, and sleep loss can cause frustration, embarrassment, or sadness. It's important to talk about your feelings and seek support if needed. If you have thoughts of self-harm, contact a crisis helpline immediately.

Pencegahan

There is no sure way to prevent eczema, but you can reduce flare-ups by moisturising regularly, avoiding known triggers, and managing stress. For babies at high risk, some studies suggest that regular moisturising from birth may help, but evidence is not strong.

Komplikasi

Jika tidak dirawat

• Skin infections (bacterial or viral)
• Thickened, leathery skin from chronic scratching (lichenification)
• Sleep problems and tiredness
• Emotional distress, low self-esteem, or depression

Pandangan jangka panjang

Eczema can be frustrating, but it often improves with age and good care. Many children outgrow it, and adults can learn to manage it very well. With the right support, most people lead a full, active life.

Cari sokongan

Organisasi antarabangsa

• International Eczema Council ↗
• Global Skin Atlas (eczema section) ↗

Organisasi tempatan

• National Eczema Association (USA) ↗ · USA
• National Eczema Society (UK) ↗ · UK
• Eczema Association Australasia ↗ · Australia

Talian bantuan

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