Eczema is frustrating to have. The red, itchy patches of skin plague millions worldwide, and most patients who see a skin specialist Singapore are looking for a cure for this prevalent condition. So what’s the real cause of eczema? Let’s take it apart.
Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, may be the result of the interaction of genes with the environment. Your body’s water barrier, as well as the exclusion of the irritant, is not functioning. This normally occurs because of mutations in the genes of proteins like filaggrin that maintain the protective barrier intact. When I am consulting patients as a skin doctor in Singapore, I prefer to describe eczema as really your skin’s failure to defend itself adequately.
For individuals with eczema, the immune system overreacts and causes inflammation without any obvious reason. It is this hypersensitivity that makes eczema’s common association with other allergic disease conditions, such as asthma or hay fever.
Environmental factors contribute immensely. Singapore’s hot and humid weather causes symptoms in most people, causing itchiness and irritation because of sweating. Air-conditioned environments, on the other hand, dry the skin and hence worsen the condition. Any Singapore dermatologist would agree that it is difficult but inevitable to be able to accommodate it accordingly when treating eczema.
Daily irritants tend to trigger flare-ups. They are rough soaps, detergents, some clothing (particularly wool and polyester), and fragrant or preservative-containing personal care products. Something innocuous to another person may be a significant trigger for a person with eczema.
Stress can worsen the symptoms of eczema. When under stress, your body releases hormones that make itching and inflammation worse. Most patients complain of worsening symptoms during a high-stress situation, such as an exam or a work deadline.
Food allergy and sensitivity could be a problem with others, most especially children. Eggs, milk, nuts, soy, wheat, and certain fruits are often the usual perpetrators. Avoidance of food, however, without professional advice, may result in undernourishment. A dermatologist in Singapore can assist in determining if food is causing your eczema through legitimate tests.
The colonization by bacteria, particularly Staphylococcus aureus, is normal on the skin of an eczema. The bacteria infect and flare up the skin, reason in generating a vicious cycle of deterioration.
Hormonal changes are behind some women developing eczema during pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause. Hormonal changes break down the barrier and immunological functions of the skin.
Weather changes tend to trigger symptoms. Changing from dry to humid weather can challenge your skin’s adaptability.
Understanding these causes assists in formulating effective management plans. There is no cure for eczema in the long term, but a Singapore dermatologist can offer customized treatment plans depending on your triggers and severity. This typically consists of barrier repair moisturizers, anti-inflammatory medications, and lifestyle changes.
Keep in mind that eczema treatment is extremely individual to the patient. Something that helps one person will not necessarily be beneficial for someone else. There must be patience and cautious handling as part of maintaining symptoms in remission.
