7 Different Types of Eczema

Eczema is an uncomfortable condition where parts of the skin become itchy, rough, inflamed, and in worst cases, ooze puss. Characterized by red patches and blisters, they are a great discomfort and are projected to plague a number of people in our population.

In this article, we will go over the various types of Eczema, their symptoms, and their causes in order to help you understand how to best prevent getting them.

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Different Types of Eczema

1. Stasis Dermatitis

What is Stasis Dermatitis?

Occurs usually in the lower leg, it is the formation of rough dry patches. It makes the leg feel heavy and inflamed. Stasis Dermatitis can also be known as Venous Dermatitis or Venous Eczema.

What are the symptoms of Stasis Dermatitis?

• Patches of skin colored yellow, red, or brown.

• Bulging veins and swelling of the leg.

• Itchiness and inflammation.

• Sores that ooze.

• Ulcers.

What are the causes of Stasis Dermatitis?

Usually found in individuals over 50 years of age or above, the condition is brought about by low circulation of blood to the leg. Usually due to high cholesterol or injury preventing proper blood flow.

2. Nummular Eczema

What is Nummular Eczema?

Also known as Nummular Dermatitis or Discoid Eczema, these are characterized coin-shaped lesions that appear on the arm and legs that may or may not ooze puss or clear liquid.

What are the symptoms of Nummular Eczema?

• Circular lesions on the skin

• Dry and itchy

• Blisters that ooze liquid or puss

What are the causes of Nummular Eczema?

There are no known definitive reasons why Nummular Eczema forms. It is thought that it is a congenital condition that forms when the individual is injured or experiences drastic changes in temperature. It may also be an allergic reaction to certain soaps or skin products.

3. Neurodematitis

What is Neurodematitis?

Typically found on the neck, wrists, arms, legs and anal region, it is known for causing extreme itchiness that will worsen if scratched – creating an uncomfortable itch-scratch cycle.

What are the symptoms of Neurodematitis?

• Itchy Patches

• Scaly textured skin

• Patches that are rough and differently colored to the rest of the skin.

What are the causes of Neurodematitis?

A chronic skin condition, it is generally thought to form through bug bites or tight fitting clothes. There is, however, no objectively proven reason for their formation.

4. Hand Eczema

What is Hand Eczema?

Also known as hand dermatitis, it is blisters and red patches in the hands that are thought to be caused by allergic reaction or genetics.

What are the symptoms of Hand Eczema?

• Red Patches on the hands

• Blistering

• Dryness and flaking

• Itchiness and pain

What are the causes of Hand Eczema?

Likely caused by allergic reaction to irritant substances. It is also known to come seasonally for those who possess it genetically.

5. Dyshidrotic Eczema

What is Dyshidrotic Eczema?

Also known as Pompholyx, it is a form of dermatitis that forms on the tips of fingers, soles of feet, toes, and palms. Such a skin condition can sometimes be unresponsive to treatment and can cause much burden to both patient and doctor.

What are the symptoms of Dyshidrotic Eczema?

• Blistering and scaliness

• Clear, white, or yellow colored patches

• Itchy and may exude clear liquid

What are the causes of Dyshidrotic Eczema?

It may be caused by stress, pollen, excessive sweating, and/or an allergic reaction to nickel in jewelry or other metals.

6. Contact Dermatitis

What is Contact Dermatitis?

It is the red and itchy patches of skin caused by direct contact to substances which one is allergic to.

What are the symptoms of Contact Dermatitis?

• Red rashes

• Bumps caused by severe scratching

• Itchiness

• Tenderness, swelling, or burning sensation of the skin.

What are the causes of Contact Dermatitis?

The likely culprits are cosmetic products, soaps, and/or cleaning chemicals that cause irritation and allergic reactions.

7. Atopic Dermatitis

What is Atopic Dermatitis?

Long lasting and tends to flare up in periodic time frames, it is characterized by red itchy patches and may be accompanied by fever or asthma. There is no known cure.

What are the symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis?

• Dry Skin

• Red Patches or Bumps

• Itchiness and swelling

• May be crusty and leak

What are the causes of Atopic Dermatitis?

Perhaps caused by an allergic reaction to certain foods, it is likely a genetic condition spurned by a lack of moisture on the skin thus making it more prone to irritants.

We provide testing, treatment and management for Eczema and other skin conditions at our clinics.

Speak to our doctors today!