A rash is a skin irritation that may appear red, painful, swollen, or itchy, leading to blisters. A rash can be a symptom of another condition like shingles or lupus. Eczema is a skin condition characterized by itchy, dry, and red skin and can present itself in different forms. It is challenging to differentiate between eczema & rashes Santa Barbara through physical examination, but eczema is a long-term problem, unlike rashes. Biopsies, family history, patient history, and existing medical conditions can help determine the skin problem you are experiencing. There are many myths related to eczema and skin rashes.
Eczema and rashes are contagious
Eczema and rashes are not contagious. The visibly irritated skin, redness, itching, and scratching make people think it is contagious. You cannot contract these conditions by touching someone else’s rash. These skin conditions are caused by allergic reactions, environmental factors, or genetic problems, so there is no possibility you will spread it by rubbing your skin against another person.
Stress causes eczema
Stress does not cause eczema, but it can trigger flare-ups of your skin condition, making it severe. When you are stressed, you release stress hormones which intensify inflammation. Stress can also worsen your situation as it increases scratching and irritation. Because eczema relates to stress, proper meditation and exercises can help reduce their effects.
Eczema and rashes will get better on their own
Skin rashes caused by an allergic reaction can clear up without treatment, but those from skin diseases may require treatment. Eczema does not clear up on its own and requires quick treatment to prevent more inflammation and severity. Extreme inflammation leads to scratching, which can finally cause bacterial infection. Doctors can use medications to treat eczema, and a healthy lifestyle will prevent triggers.
A family history of eczema means your child will have the disease
Although eczema can be a genetic disorder, that does not mean your child must get it. But there are high chances of your child getting eczema if you have it. Scientists say that breastfeeding your child exclusively for six months can minimize the risk of eczema. Since environmental factors can cause eczema, your child can develop the problem even if you do not have it.
Eczema and rashes are not severe conditions
These skin conditions may not seem severe, but constant scratching can lead to long-term skin damage. The severity of itching and irritation can cause chronic discomfort interfering with your daily activities and decreasing your life’s overall quality. Skin rashes can be due to severe conditions like lupus. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment can prevent permanent skin damage or future complications.
Treatment can cure eczema
There is no cure for eczema. The treatments available are used to manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups. Your doctor can help you control your skin from the causing elements and potential triggers. Non-irritating products will moisturize your skin, minimize irritation, and prevent chronically dry and scaly skin.
If you encounter any skin rash or irritation, visit your doctor immediately for early diagnosis and treatment to prevent severe skin damage. Schedule an appointment at LUX Dermatology to relieve your skin irritation by treating eczema and rashes.
