Overview
This is also known as varicose, gravitational or stasis eczema. It is commonly seen in the elderly and people with varicose veins in the legs. The pooling of blood in the leg veins due to gravity leads to this form of eczema. The legs may become swollen, especially at the end of the day or after prolonged standing. There may also be associated discolouration of the skin, as well as skin tightening and thickening.
Detection & Treatment
Treatments commonly prescribed for eczema include moisturisers and topical steroids. Topical steroids are useful in reducing skin inflammation. They are safe if used appropriately. Some possible side effects of prolonged use of steroids include skin thinning. Your doctor will advise on the appropriate use of topical steroids.
More recently, steroid-free topical medications have been developed and are available for the treatment of eczema. These new TCI creams (tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) are costly and your doctor will assess the suitability and appropriate use of these medications.
Oral treatments for eczema include oral antibiotics when the skin is infected. Antihistamines are also commonly prescribed to reduce the itch. In severe cases of atopic eczema, other treatment options such as phototherapy or systemic immunomodulators may be indicated. Your doctor will advise you accordingly.
Care Management
How do I care for the skin?
The following are important in the skin care of people with atopic eczema:
- Avoid scratching, rubbing and picking the skin. This aggravates the eczema and may also lead to unsightly pigmentation, open wounds and scars.
- Avoid irritant soaps and detergents. Use gentle soaps or soap substitutes instead.
- Moisturise the skin frequently. Moisturisers do not cause thinning of the skin and should be applied liberally and frequently throughout the day. Remember to apply moisturisers after swimming.
- Certain clothing materials such as wool and linen tend to irritate the skin while materials like cotton are more comfortable for sensitive skin.
- When in a dry and cold environment, it is important to keep the skin well moisturised to prevent flaring of the eczema.
Do certain types of food make eczema worse?
It is rare for food allergies to cause eczema, although food allergies may make eczema worse in some people. Prevalence of food allergies is highest in young children with severe eczema. It may be present in about one third of children less than 3 years of age with severe eczema. In adults, food allergy is very uncommon. Common food allergens in children include cow's milk, hen's egg, peanut, tree nuts, shellfish, wheat and soy.
Screening tests for food allergy include skin prick test and specific IgE blood test. The results of these tests must be interpreted by an experienced dermatologist.
Specialties & Services
