Eczema Treatment Near Chattanooga, TN

Eczema is not a single condition, rather it is a collection of various skin diseases that cause patches of skin to become rough, inflamed, itchy, and sometimes result in bleeding. With over 30 million Americans demonstrating symptoms, eczema is an issue that dermatologists treat often. While it’s prevalent in babies, adults can develop eczema as well.

The board-certified dermatologists at Uderm provide diagnosis and treatment for a variety of skin conditions including eczema. If you are experiencing dry, itchy skin and would like to discuss your treatment options, please call (423) 206-2777 to schedule your eczema diagnosis and treatment at our dermatology clinic near Chattanooga, TN.

Schedule an Appointment

How Do Dermatologists Diagnose Eczema?

Since there are 11 different types of eczema, a dermatologist will try to pinpoint exactly what is causing symptoms in order to provide the best treatment. In order to do this, a thorough examination of the skin will be performed, medical history will be reviewed and in some cases, a biopsy of a skin sample will be sent for examination.

What Eczema Treatment Options Are Available?

Eczema can be persistent and it may require several treatments over the course of months or even years to control. In most cases, a dermatologist will recommend home care in addition to any treatments they provide.

Can You treat Eczema At Home?

Preventing itchiness or discomfort could be as simple as eliminating possible allergic triggers such as certain laundry detergents or avoiding wearing certain fabrics such as wool. The most important step to treating this issue is to keep the skin well moisturized:

• Take a lukewarm shower for no more than 10 minutes.
• Use a mild soap with little fragrance.
• Dry your skin very carefully with the towel. Do not aggressively dry.
• Use a mild, fragrance-free lotion.

The final piece of advice is to stop scratching. Scratching itchy skin may make symptoms more pronounced and could irritate the skin further.

Medication & Therapy for Eczema

Topical cream and oral/injected medication could be recommended to keep symptoms under control. Prescription creams will help to control itching while repairing the skin. Oral medication can help to fight skin infection and relieve itching. Injected drugs could help to control inflammation in severe cases.

When at-home treatment and medication does not control symptoms, a dermatologist may choose to perform one of the following treatments:

• Ultraviolet Light Therapy. UVB or PUVA ultraviolet rays are effective for treating chronic cases, but increase risk for sunburn or skin cancer if used for too long.
• Wet Dressing Application. Wrapping the affected area with topical medication and wet bandages has proven effective with certain forms of eczema.

Eczema Treatment for Children

At-home treatment is almost always recommended for children before any cream or medication is prescribed. Be sure to keep skin well moisturized and avoid any products that seem to irritate skin.