What Causes Eczema: Surprising Triggers You Need to Know

Eczema is a skin condition that many people have. It makes the skin red, itchy, and dry. But what causes eczema? Why do some people get it and others do not? In this article, we will explain the main causes of eczema in a simple way. You will learn what triggers eczema and how to understand it better.

What Is Eczema?

Eczema is not just one thing. It is a name for a group of skin problems. The most common type is called atopic dermatitis. This type causes dry, itchy, and red skin. People with eczema often scratch their skin. This can make the skin sore and even infected.

Eczema can happen at any age. Many children get it, but adults can have it too. The skin can be affected on the face, hands, arms, or other parts of the body.

How Does Eczema Start?

Eczema happens because the skin does not work the right way. Healthy skin keeps water inside and stops bad things from coming in. In eczema, the skin barrier is weak. This means:

• Water escapes from the skin.
• Harmful things can enter easily.
• The skin becomes dry and cracked.

When the skin dries out, it feels itchy. Scratching makes the skin worse. This cycle can go on for a long time.

Main Causes of Eczema

There is no single cause for eczema. Many things can cause it or make it worse. Here are the main causes:

1. Genetics (family History)

Some people get eczema because it runs in their family. If parents or brothers have eczema, the chance is higher. This means genes play a big role. Genes are parts of our body that decide how we look and how our body works.

People with eczema often have a gene that makes their skin barrier weak. This gene problem makes skin dry and easy to get irritated.

2. Immune System

Eczema is also linked to the immune system. The immune system protects us from germs. But in eczema, the immune system reacts too much.

It causes inflammation. Inflammation is redness and swelling. This reaction makes the skin itchy and sore.

3. Allergies

Many people with eczema have allergies. Allergies happen when the body reacts to things that are usually harmless.

Common allergens are:

• Dust mites
• Pollen from plants
• Animal fur
• Some foods

When people with eczema meet allergens, their skin can flare up. This means the eczema gets worse.

4. Irritants

Irritants are things that hurt the skin. They do not cause allergies but can make eczema worse.

Common irritants include:

• Soaps and detergents
• Shampoos
• Perfumes
• Some fabrics like wool
• Chlorine in swimming pools

If you have eczema, it is best to avoid these irritants.

5. Weather

Weather can also cause eczema to flare up. Both hot and cold weather can be a problem.

• Cold weather: Dry air takes moisture from the skin.
• Hot weather: Sweat can irritate the skin.
• Rapid changes in temperature can also trigger eczema.

6. Stress

Stress can affect the skin too. When you are stressed, your body makes chemicals that may make eczema worse.

Many people notice their eczema gets worse during times of stress.

7. Infections

Sometimes, infections can cause eczema to flare. Bacteria or viruses on the skin can make the problem worse.

People with eczema have skin that is not strong. This allows germs to enter easily.

Common Triggers That Can Cause Eczema Flare-Ups

Even if you have eczema, you can keep it under control by avoiding triggers. Triggers are things that make eczema worse. Here is a table of common triggers:

Why Is It Important to Know the Causes?

Knowing what causes eczema helps you manage it better. If you know your triggers, you can avoid them. This can reduce itching and skin damage.

Also, understanding that eczema is not caused by dirt or poor hygiene helps reduce stigma. Many people feel embarrassed because others think eczema is contagious. It is not true.

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How Doctors Find the Cause

Doctors look at many things to find what causes eczema in you. They may ask about your family history and your daily life. They check your skin and sometimes do tests.

Patch tests can find if you are allergic to certain things. Blood tests might help find allergies too.

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Simple Tips to Protect Your Skin

You cannot always stop eczema, but you can take care of your skin. Here are some easy tips:

• Use mild soaps: Choose gentle, fragrance-free products.
• Moisturize often: Use creams to keep skin soft.
• Wear soft clothes: Cotton is best, avoid wool.
• Avoid hot baths: Use warm water and limit bath time.
• Protect skin from cold: Wear gloves and scarves in winter.
• Manage stress: Try to relax and rest well.
• Keep nails short: This helps reduce damage from scratching.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water.

When to See a Doctor

If your eczema is very itchy or painful, see a doctor. Also, if your skin looks infected or does not get better, you need help.

Doctors can give medicines to reduce itching and inflammation. They can also teach you how to care for your skin.

Summary

Eczema is a skin condition caused by many factors. Genetics, immune system, allergies, and irritants all play a part. Weather, stress, and infections can also make eczema worse.

Knowing what causes eczema helps you avoid triggers. Simple skin care can reduce symptoms. If needed, a doctor can help with treatment.

Remember, eczema is common and can be managed well. Take care of your skin and learn what works best for you.