Consequences of Neglected Eczema Inquiry, Breaking It Down for You
In a recent survey, it was found that 48% of people with eczema have experienced worsened symptoms since their diagnosis, and 64% reported that more areas of their body are affected [2]. Eczema, a group of inflammatory skin conditions, affects more than 31 million people in the United States [7].
The progression of eczema varies from person to person, and the natural course depends on a variety of factors, including the cause of eczema and its management. While many people who develop eczema as a young child may outgrow symptoms, it may persist for others [8].
If over-the-counter treatments are not enough, prescription medications may be necessary to manage worsening eczema symptoms and prevent further complications. Treatment options for eczema include moisturizers, medicated lotions, creams, and ointments, oral medications, and injectable therapies. Prescription treatments for eczema include topical calcineurin inhibitors, biologics, Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, and oral immunosuppressants [3].
Untreated eczema can lead to several long-term complications. One such complication is skin thickening and lichenification, where the skin becomes leathery and more resistant to treatment as a result of chronic inflammation and continuous skin irritation [4][5].
Another concern is infections. The compromised skin barrier in eczema makes it easier for bacteria, fungi, or viruses to infect the skin. Common infections include methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and herpes simplex (eczema herpeticum) [1][5].
Chronic eczema can also cause noticeable changes in skin texture and color, such as postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (darkening) or hypopigmentation (lightening). These changes are more evident in darker skin tones [5].
Persistent itching and discomfort can significantly affect sleep and concentration, leading to increased stress and anxiety. This cycle can exacerbate the condition further [1].
In cases of venous eczema, poor circulation can lead to painful leg ulcers, infections, and persistent skin irritation if not addressed [3].
Early treatment and consistent management are crucial to prevent these complications and maintain a better quality of life. If you are experiencing bothersome symptoms despite taking steps to manage your eczema, it is essential to discuss more treatment options with your healthcare team.
Eczema most often develops during early childhood but can happen at any point from infancy to adulthood [6]. Recognising the signs of worsening eczema symptoms, such as more intense itchiness, pain, or flaking, deepening of skin discolorations, oozing or crusting of skin, involvement of new areas of the body, and symptoms that affect sleep or mental health, can help in seeking timely treatment and managing the condition effectively.
References:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5642280/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6883404/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470336/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3136934/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6933771/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7420081/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6883404/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6933771/
- Naive science has long been pursuing effective treatments for eczema, a common medical-condition affecting the skin-care of millions of people in the United States.
- Eczema treatment varies from person-to-person, as the natural course depends on factors such as the cause and management of the inflammatory skin-condition.
- Untreated eczema can lead to complications, including skin thickening and infections, which may have a long-term impact on a person's health-and-wellness.
- In the pursuit of better eczema management, it is essential for naive individuals to recognize the signs of worsening symptoms and seek timely treatment to maintain a better quality of life.
