Eczema Specialist
-
- Tweet
West Houston Allergy & Asthma
Asthma, Allergy, and Immunology located in Katy, Richmond, & Houston, TX
Taking care of your skin's health, including any eczema or hives flare-ups, is critical to maintaining wellness. At West Houston Allergy & Asthma, Pardeep Rihal, MD, and the expert staff offer complete allergic skin care treatment for the entire family. If you're experiencing painful skin conditions or allergic reactions, call one of their locations in Katy, Richmond, and Houston, Texas, for an appointment, or book one online. Same-day appointments are available for acute care.
Eczema Q & A
What is eczema, and who gets it?
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a condition that makes your skin red and itchy. The inflammatory skin condition is long-lasting, isn’t contagious, and tends to flare up periodically.
Over 30 million Americans have some form of eczema, but it's more common in babies and children. Certain risk factors give you a predisposition for eczema and hives, including:
- Food allergies
- Irritants from everyday household products
- Cigarette smoke
- Fragrances
- Certain fabrics like wool and polyester
About 20% of the population experiences hives at least once.
What is the difference between eczema and hives?
The two major types of skin allergies are eczema and urticaria (hives). Both erupt on or just under the skin as a result of a heightened immune system. Hives resemble a pale red, raised eruption, while eczema presents as an itchy lesion that can be blistering or oozing.
Hives arise from the release of histamine from the skin cells when exposed to an allergen like pollen or milk products. Eczema is more common in those with a family history of asthma or who are associated with respiratory issues.
What are the symptoms of eczema?
Eczema symptoms vary from person to person, but generally, people experience one or more of the following:
- Dry skin
- Raw, swollen skin from itching
- Red to brownish-gray spots
- Raised bumps that may leak fluid
- Thickened and cracked skin
Hives have similar symptoms except the bumps are redder raised bumps that can appear anywhere on the body.
How is eczema treated?
West Houston Allergy & Asthma can use a variety of treatment methods to reduce eczema and hives. The skin disorders can be painful to treat, so you might have to explore a few different treatment options to find the right solution. Some suggested methods for prevention include medications and therapies, such as:
Medications:
- Creams to control itching and help repair the skin
- Antibiotic drugs to fight infection
- Oral medications to control inflammation
- Injectable medicine for severe eczema
Therapies:
- Wet dressings with topical corticosteroids
- Light therapy using natural and artificial light
- Talking with a therapist or other counselor
- Relaxation techniques to reduce chronic scratching
If you’re ready to begin the journey to healthy skin, the team at West Houston Allergy & Asthma can help you. Give the nearest office a call to schedule an appointment, or book one online.
