Eczema

Alternate Names : Atopic Dermatitis, Atopic Eczema

What can be done to prevent the condition?

Eczema cannot be prevented, but progression of symptoms may be decreased by avoiding allergens that seem to cause flare-ups. Controlling stress or anxiety-producing situations may also decrease risk of eczema flare-ups.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

Long-term effects of eczema include infection and scarring. Other long-term effects may include emotional frustration from scarring. Children will usually outgrow eczema by about 6 years of age, although sometimes improvement is not seen until puberty or adulthood. Long-term effects can usually be lessened with early treatment.

What are the risks to others?

Eczema is not contagious, but if the lesions become infected, the organism causing the infection may be contagious.