Eczema affects millions of Americans, and it’s no joke. There’s no cure for it, and this skin condition can be quite difficult to manage.

Not only is it incurable and tough to manage, but also tends to get worse during this time of year! Find out why that is, as our AFC Urgent Care Louisville team explains below.

What Is Eczema?

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a condition that makes the skin red, itchy and dry. It’s common among children, but it can occur at any age. Most forms of eczema are long lasting and will flare up periodically.

It’s one of many types of dermatitis, and it damages the skin barrier function (the “glue” of your skin), which will, in turn, make the skin more sensitive and more prone to infection and dryness. We’ve listed eczema’s common symptoms below.

Common Symptoms of Eczema

• Dry skin
• Itching, which may be severe, especially at night
• Red to brownish-gray patches—especially on the hands, feet, ankles, wrists, neck, upper chest, eyelids, inside the bend of the elbows and knees, and in infants, the face and scalp
• Small, raised bumps, which may leak fluid and crust over when scratched
• Thickened, cracked, scaly skin
• Raw, sensitive, swollen skin from scratching

Why Does Eczema Get Worse in the Winter?

If you have eczema, it’s no coincidence that it tends to get worse during this time of year. Dry, outdoor air combined with indoor heating systems can dry out your skin, which can cause flare-ups, due to the fact that the skin can’t stay moist on its own.

It’s not easy to treat eczema. In most cases, you may need to try various treatments over months or years to control it. And even if treatment is successful, signs and symptoms may still periodically flare up. If regular moisturizing and other self-care steps don’t help, your doctor may suggest things like OTC creams, ointments and some prescription medications.

Ways to Limit Eczema Flare-Ups

• Use a humidifier if dry air makes your skin dry.
• Use mild soaps and other products that are free of perfumes, dyes and alcohol. Look for products labeled “fragrance free,” “hypoallergenic” and “for sensitive skin.”
• Moisturize your skin using a cream or ointment. Lotions don’t work as well. Apply several times a day, including after you bathe or shower.
• Use lukewarm water in the tub or shower instead of hot.

Do you have more questions about eczema? If so, don’t hesitate to reach out to our AFC Urgent Care Louisville team today.