Is Eczema Curable?
Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that causes itchy, red, dry skin. It frequently occurs on the ankles, hands, knees, elbows, and feet. A dermatologist can manage eczema through some of the following treatments:
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are antimicrobial substances that fight bacterial infections. A dermatologist may prescribe antibiotics for eczema that occurs alongside bacterial skin infections. This treatment could take the form of antibiotic topical or oral medications. Topical antibiotics are creams or ointments used to treat a small area of infected eczema. For patients with extensive eczema infections, doctors usually prescribe antibiotics taken by mouth, including flucloxacillin. Specialists might provide clarithromycin and erythromycin to patients who are allergic to penicillin.
Clarithromycin belongs to the macrolide antibiotic class and inhibits bacterial protein synthesis. Your doctor can prescribe clarithromycin when bacteria penetrate the skin and proliferate. The medication provides systemic treatment in cases of widespread infection and is more effective for targeting specific bacterial strains. Erythromycin binds with bacteria to stop their reproduction and growth. It works to prevent skin infection by reducing itching and scratching, and its topical application reduces bacterial load on the skin and inflammation.
Corticosteroids
Dermatologists also could prescribe corticosteroid ointments to treat eczema. Patients apply the steroid medicines on the skin to reduce swelling, itching, and redness. Corticosteroids work by making your immune system less sensitive and blocking inflammation triggers. Immune system modulation may prevent further flare-ups, allowing your skin to heal. The quantity of corticosteroids that a doctor prescribes depends on the medication’s strength. Medicines are available in mild, moderate, potent, and extremely potent varieties. The treatment plan often begins with a low-potency steroid for mild cases, followed by ointments with higher potency for severe flare-ups. Patients use ointments until their symptoms improve, then gradually tapering off to prevent reinfection. Combining corticosteroid ointments with emollients, including lotions, promotes skin hydration during treatment.
Calcineurin Inhibitors
Topical calcineurin inhibitors treat atopic eczema by blocking calcineurin and dampening the immune response. Calcineurin is a protein phosphatase that contributes to inflammation in eczema. Doctors prescribe two types of calcineurin inhibitors: tacrolimus and pimecrolimus. Tacrolimus is a protopic ointment that treats moderate to severe dermatitis. You can apply it on most parts of your body, including the face and neck. Patients use pimecrolimus when other eczema medications fail. Before prescribing pimecrolimus, your doctor should assess you for pregnancy and infections.
Light Therapy
Doctors might employ phototherapy to treat different forms of eczema. They may recommend the treatment when topical medicines fail to control eczema. It involves the use of narrowband ultraviolet light to reduce inflammation. Dermatologists use ultraviolet-A and ultraviolet-B rays to treat eczema. Ultraviolet A rays have a longer wavelength than ultraviolet B rays. Ultraviolet-A rays treat deep skin conditions, while ultraviolet-B rays treat the top layer. Ultraviolet-B rays slow down the growth of affected skin cells. Ultraviolet-A rays decrease cell turnover and have an immunosuppressive effect on the skin. During treatment, patients usually stand in a booth with ultraviolet light tubes. Your doctor may use a smaller light therapy device for localized eczema.
Learn More About the Dermatologist
Dermatologists can provide comprehensive care to treat and minimize eczema flare-ups. They aim to address the underlying causes and prescribe medications to treat symptoms. Contact a reputable dermatologist to learn more about their eczema treatments.