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Woman With Eczema On Her Neck And Chest. | Common Eczema Myths | Center For Surgical Dermatology

Dermatologist Addresses Common Eczema Myths

Did you know that an estimated 31.6 million Americans, or 10% of the population, have eczema? Though this aggravating skin condition is one of the most common in the United States, there are a lot of eczema myths floating around out there that our dermatologists would like to address. 

 

Eczema Myth #1: It Is Contagious 

Because of the way eczema looks (patches of dry, itchy, irritated skin that may be flaky or scaly), many individuals believe that it is contagious. However, this is completely untrue. You cannot catch eczema from another person and you can’t give it to someone by touching them. 

However, when not taken care of properly, eczema can lead to other bacterial and viral skin infections, such as staph and herpes simplex, which can be contagious and spread to other individuals. 

People with eczema tend to be more prone to getting skin infections because this skin condition affects the strength of their skin barrier, making it more vulnerable to invaders like germs and viruses.  

 

Eczema Myth #2: It Goes Away On Its Own

Our dermatologists believe that this myth stems from the fact that eczema can be more common in babies and children, with many of their eczema symptoms improving as they get older. 

However, millions of adults also suffer from eczema. In fact, a review published in the British Journal of Dermatology shows it’s almost as common in adults over 60 as it is in children under 18. 

Additionally, this belief may also come from the fact that many with eczema go through a cycle of flare-ups and clear skin. During periods of clear skin, it may seem as though their eczema has gone away. However, when triggered, it tends to come back. 

 

Eczema Myth #3: It’s Caused By Stress

Stress does not cause eczema, but it can certainly exacerbate it and may even trigger an eczema flare. This is due to the release of cortisol, otherwise known as the stress hormone, which can worsen inflammation. 

At the Center for Surgical Dermatology, our dermatologists often include mindful exercises and stress reduction techniques in our personalized eczema treatment plans to help patients better manage their stress and anxiety, which can alleviate eczema symptoms

 

Eczema Myth #4: The Skin Condition is “Just Itching” 

Those who do not have eczema or don’t understand this common skin condition often believe that it is simply a skin condition that causes excessively dry skin and itching. However, those with eczema know that it can severely impact their quality of life. 

In many cases, eczema can make it hard to sleep at night, focus at work, exercise regularly, and simply move through the day with ease. Furthermore, eczema can seriously damage an individual’s self-esteem and confidence levels, leading to an increased risk of depression and substance abuse. 

Put shortly, eczema is not “just itching.” It’s a chronic skin condition that, when not properly managed, can wreak havoc on the lives of those who suffer from it. 

 

Eczema Myth #5: It Can Be Cured

Eczema cannot be cured and there is no one single treatment that will make it go away permanently. 

Instead, treating eczema is a lifelong journey that focuses on better managing the symptoms and reducing the frequency and severity of eczema flare-ups. 

At the Center for Surgical Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists generally use a combination of prescription treatments and lifestyle changes to help patients better manage and alleviate their eczema symptoms. 

This may include antihistamines, antibiotics, injectable or oral immunosuppressants, light therapy, topical skin creams, and lifestyle recommendations (e.g. stress management, avoiding your unique triggers, and bathing habits). 

For more information on how we treat eczema in Westerville, Ohio, please get in touch with our friendly team by calling (614) 847-4100 or contact us online

 

Effective Eczema Treatment at the Center for Surgical Dermatology 

Center of Surgical Dermatology is the largest medical and surgical skin treatment and wellness facility in Central Ohio. Since 2007, our board-certified dermatologists, fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons, and caring professional staff have provided patients with personalized eczema treatment they can trust in an environment second to none. Learn more about our state-of-the-art Dermatology Center before booking your appointment today.

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