Eczema is a chronic condition, meaning it lasts for a long time and can be difficult to manage. This is where the role of dermatologists comes in. Dermatologists are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of skin conditions. They are experts in the field of dermatology, possessing extensive knowledge and experience in diagnosing and treating various skin conditions, including eczema.
This is a common experience for many children with eczema, a chronic inflammatory skin condition. Eczema is a complex condition with a variety of triggers, and its impact on children can be significant. Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects millions of children worldwide. It is characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin.
But the very same steroid cream can cause a flare-up in some people.”
This statement highlights a common dilemma faced by individuals with eczema. They are often prescribed steroid creams, which are effective in managing symptoms, but can also trigger flare-ups in some individuals. This creates a frustrating and challenging situation for those struggling with eczema.
“I have always been in and out of A&E for flare ups, because when eczema is as severe as mine, the whole body becomes inflamed and it’s hard to walk, turn my head, wear clothes and function properly.” Eczema is the name for a group of inflammatory skin conditions that cause itchiness, dry skin, rashes, scaly patches, blisters and skin infections. It can begin during childhood, adolescence, or adulthood and can range from mild to severe. Severe eczema, like Freya’s, may include periods of flare-ups that can last many days or even several weeks. Severe eczema comes with additional complications beyond itchy skin and rashes and can lead to hospitalization if left untreated. People with severe eczema are also at higher risk for food allergy and asthma, a triangulation of conditions that commonly co-occur known as the Atopic March.
(Image: Freya McGreevy) Freya’s condition came to a head at age 25 – describing it as “the worst it’s ever been”. She endured an agonising flare-up for 12 months and was forced to take three months off work. Despite taking oral steroid medication, her infections became so bad she was hospitalised after developing sepsis. “The nurses couldn’t treat the eczema because there was no dermatologist in the hospital and they were not trained to deal with extreme cases,” Freya added. “It wasn’t until my sepsis that I was sent to a dermatologist. I feel my body and me can never reach my full potential because of flare-up fears.”
This treatment was initially successful in controlling her symptoms, but over time, her condition worsened. Freya’s case highlights the complexities of managing chronic skin conditions like psoriasis and the challenges associated with finding effective treatments. Freya’s journey exemplifies the unpredictable nature of chronic illnesses. Her initial response to treatment was promising, offering a glimmer of hope for a better quality of life.
The treatment I am currently taking is a nonspecific immunosuppressant. It does not target specific parts of the immune system. It works by suppressing the entire immune system, which can lead to a variety of side effects.
This quote, from a young woman named Freya McGreevy, encapsulates the complex and often challenging reality of living with eczema. Eczema, a chronic inflammatory skin condition, affects millions worldwide, causing intense itching, redness, and dryness.
I was diagnosed with a chronic illness that requires me to be in a wheelchair for mobility.
(Image: Freya McGreevy) “My workplace are understanding and allow me to take time off when I need and adapt my day, like when I have a wheelchair. The love and understanding of my partner is unmatched. “He steps up into carer mode when he recognises my skin getting worse. He will literally help me in and out of bed and baths when it’s bad, moisturise my whole body and go and get late night bandages if we run out. “And he is still attracted to me which I struggle with because I am so disgusted by my own skin. If it wasn’t for him, I fear that the mental health issues that came with my eczema when it was at it’s absolutely worst would have been the thing that killed me.
The relief I feel is immense. My skin, once a source of constant worry and discomfort, is now manageable. This newfound control has opened up a world of possibilities. I can finally enjoy activities that were previously off-limits, like travelling, exercising, and working without the constant fear of a flare-up.
