Eczema

In short, eczema is an inflammation of the upper layers of skin resulting in itching, redness and swelling. Did you know that nearly 1 million Dutch people regularly suffer from itching and red, chapped skin patches? Eczema is therefore number 4 in the top 10 chronic disorders in the Netherlands* and brings physical and mental complaints.

What is eczema?

Eczema is a collective term for a variety of conditions that result in red, itchy skin rashes. Briefly, eczema is an inflammation of the upper layers of the skin that results in itching, redness and swelling. With any form of eczema, a thickening and hardening of the skin can occur from rubbing and scratching. Eczema occurs in all ages: from eczema in babies to eczema in children, from adults to older people.

Eczema additionally occurs in various areas of the body. These include the face, hands, legs, feet and elbows.

What are the causes of eczema?

The cause of eczema is often unknown. Its course is also not always predictable: sometimes it goes well for times. Sometimes there is a sudden period when the situation worsens.
It is likely that stress and, for example, a winter period can trigger or even worsen eczema. The following factors also play a role in the development of eczema

Nature or heredity -Allergens, which are substances that can cause an allergy. For example: latex, nickel and rubber Non-allergenic factors. For example, water, soap, wool, alcohol and food are known to trigger or aggravate eczema. Other factors such as dry skin, dry air, heat, bright sunlight, perspiration and stress can trigger and worsen eczema.