Discoid eczema
The cause of Discoid Eczema is unknown though stress and local infection are both thought to play a part. Dry skin is the most common factor found in people with Discoid Eczema and the use of soaps and detergents acting as irritants can trigger it.
One theory is that having dry skin means your skin cannot provide an effective barrier against substances that come into contact with it. A previously harmless substance, such as soap, can then irritate and damage your skin.
It is usually seen in adults in their forties and fifties and it is more common in men. It can appear in women in their teens and twenties, particularly if they have atopic eczema. It is rare in children.
As the name suggests, Discoid Eczema appears in disc or coin-shaped patches about 5cm across. These start off slightly bumpy, usually on the lower legs or arms and sometimes on the trunk.
If you look closely you will see some tiny little blisters and some crusting where the fluid from them has oozed and dried. The patches can then become very itchy and the skin dry and flaky and probably thickened.
Treatment of Discoid Eczema
Discoid Eczema can be very stubborn and difficult to treat, so it may persist for many months. Even after treatment the condition may return, often with patches in the same places as before.
Your GP or dermatologist will probably recommend a regular use of emollients to reduce the loss of water from the skin or prescribe topical corticosteroids. SyrinxZa is a natural alternative.
Where possible avoid chemicals in soaps and detergents. A chlorine-removing filter for the shower or bath and basin can be beneficial.An everyday moisturiser such as Gloves in a Bottle or Skin MD will keep moisture in the skin and allow the skin's barrier to repair itself while keeping it protected from irritants.
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