The root cause of eczema is a defective skin barrier. This defect often leads to the development of food and environmental allergies.
Understanding the Causes of Eczema
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that causes itchy, inflamed skin. It is not just one thing causing it; rather, it is a combination of factors:
The Defective Skin Barrier
- Primary Cause: The primary issue in eczema is a malfunctioning skin barrier. This barrier normally protects the skin from irritants and allergens, as well as keeping moisture in.
- Breakdown: When this barrier is not working correctly, irritants and allergens can enter the skin more easily, and moisture is lost.
- Consequence: This results in inflammation, itching, and the characteristic dry, scaly skin associated with eczema.
Genetic Predisposition
- Inherited: Eczema is frequently inherited, with individuals being at a higher risk if they have family members with allergies or asthma.
- Infants at Risk: Infants are especially prone to developing eczema if their parents have a history of allergies or asthma.
- Genes: Specific genes related to skin barrier function can be passed down, contributing to a higher risk.
Allergies and Environmental Factors
- Development: Eczema is linked to the development of both food and environmental allergies.
- Triggers: Common triggers include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, certain foods, and some skin care products.
- Reaction: The weakened skin barrier reacts more strongly to these substances, causing eczema flare-ups.
A Summary
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Defective Skin Barrier | Primary issue; skin cannot protect properly from irritants/allergens. |
| Genetic Predisposition | Inherited tendency; increases risk if family has allergies/asthma. |
| Allergies | Eczema develops with food and environmental allergies. |
Managing Eczema
Although the root cause is a defective skin barrier, managing eczema often involves:
- Moisturizing: Regular moisturizing to help keep skin hydrated and to support the skin barrier function.
- Avoiding Triggers: Identifying and avoiding specific allergens and irritants that cause flare-ups.
- Topical Treatments: Using prescribed creams or ointments (e.g. corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors) to reduce inflammation and itching.
- Other Medications: In severe cases, oral medications or biologics may be required.
Eczema management requires a multifaceted approach, and it's important to work with a dermatologist to develop a personalized plan.
