Living with eczema can be quite unpleasant since itchy, cracked skin is a continual annoyance. Recent research reveals that environmental factors are contributing to an increase in eczema cases.
Eczema is a skin disorder characterized by itchy, dry, and cracked skin. It is particularly prevalent in children and typically appears before the age of one. Nonetheless, it is also possible to develop eczema as an adult. Despite the possibility of therapy, it is often a chronic illness. According to the National Eczema Association, over 31.6 million Americans suffer with eczema.
This indicates that around one in ten people develop eczema during their lifetime. 9.6 million children under the age of 18 suffer atopic dermatitis, a prevalent form of eczema. In a recent study published in Clinical & Experimental Allergy, the research team gathered data from 14 nations for the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood, which included thousands of children and adolescents. The research utilized information from 74,361 teenagers and 47,907 youngsters.
They searched for eczema prevalence, severity, and lifetime eczema prevalence. The proportion of children and adolescents with eczema symptoms has increased over the previous decade, according to a study. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology, eczema cases have increased for numerous causes.
It could be due to exposure to allergens, including dust mites, or other items, such as harsh cosmetics, soaps, detergents, lotions, and more. The weather can also trigger eczema, particularly when it is cold and dry.
“Priority number one is to understand why the prevalence of eczema is growing in various situations. From a health services and disease burden standpoint, there is a need to concentrate research efforts on determining why the frequency of severe eczema symptoms is disproportionately high in certain geographic areas,” said the paper.
The majority of the participants were from urban environments, as opposed to rural ones. Hence the study had a few drawbacks. This face inhibits the presentation of a global community. Inaccurate self-reporting results from parents and participants were also used in the study.
“Global research efforts are required to address the burden associated with eczema, with sustained worldwide efforts to develop strategies to avoid the start of eczema and to better manage its impact on individuals, their families, and health systems,” concluded the research team.
As an ongoing condition, eczema requires treatment. Some individuals with eczema may have extremely itchy and dry skin, which frequently results in oozing. Treatment for eczema differs from person to person; for some, the condition worsens over time, while for others, the symptoms disappear.
Some specialists feel that eczema is more prevalent in locations with higher incomes because of the greater prevalence of cleaner environments, vaccinations, and antibiotic use. Ironically, these elements might boost your immune system, leaving you more susceptible to eczema.
There is no single cure for eczema, but medical professionals can prescribe cream drugs and provide education on controlling the skin problem. They can also utilize self-techniques, such as minimizing scratching and using emollients.
Also, you can focus on keeping proper cleanliness and avoiding harsh skin products. If your eczema worsens, you should consult a medical expert for assistance. The actual cause of eczema is unknown. However, it may be inherited or develop from other conditions, such as asthma and hay fever.
