WHAT IS ECZEMA?
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) is a very common skin condition which causes dry and itchy skin. It is commonly associated with other atopic disorders such as asthma and allergic rhinitis (hay fever). Eczema tends to run in families.
The skin specialists at Melbourne City Dermatology are able to offer a wide range of treatment options for atopic dermatitis.
Your treatment may include alterations in your skin care and lifestyle, prescription creams, phototherapy and sometimes oral medications. We can arrange further tests for you to investigate contributing or aggravating factors such as contact allergies or reactions to medications. Click here to read about contact allergies.
Treatment plans are tailored for individuals to be as safe, practical and easy to follow as possible. Treatments are available for all ages and include some of the newer injectable therapies that have become available in Australia in recent years.
If you are struggling to control flare ups in your dermatitis then ask your GP for a referral to see what could be improved in your management plan.
Melbourne City Dermatology can facilitate urgent appointments with a dermatologist for severe flare ups. You will need to visit your GP who can download our urgent referral form which then can be faxed directly to our clinic.
Some practical advice that will assist most patients to manage their itchy skin includes;
- keeping fingernails short to reduce trauma from scratching
- keep baths and showers to mild temperatures, avoid excessively hot water
- regularly moisturise the skin after bathing
- avoid products which may irritate the skin – such as highly fragranced products
- take measures to reduce household dust mites
For further information on eczema please visit the Eczema Association.