Is eczema an autoimmune disease? Eczema is one of the most common inflammatory skin conditions and affects 230 million people worldwide. It can cause a lot of itching and is often associated with other health problems, such as allergies and asthma. There is a strong co-relation in eczema as an autoimmune disease.
It’s a condition that affects the immune system and may be linked to some autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Patients with SLE are at greater risk for eczema, and they often have other autoimmune manifestations like arthritis and thyroid disease.
Does eczema make you more susceptible to other autoimmune diseases?
Psoriasis is another autoimmune disease that can affect the skin, joints and heart. It’s characterized by red, raised, itchy and painful plaques that can bleed if they are scratched.
Dyshidrotic eczema is a type of eczema that happens in the hands and feet. It can last for weeks, months or years. It is usually caused by an itchiness that goes away with the use of hand lotion or anti-itch creams.
Autoimmune cytopenias can occur when the body doesn’t make enough blood cells. They’re most common in children, but adults can have them as well.
Treatment for autoimmune cytopenias is usually to remove the autoantibodies and let the body replenish the blood cells. Many different treatments are available, including intravenous immunoglobulin, steroids and chemotherapy drugs.
There is also some evidence that a gluten-free diet can help to reduce the symptoms of dermatitis herpetiformis, which is another autoimmune skin condition. It occurs when the immune system attacks parts of the skin and intestines that are influenced by gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, rye and triticale.
Causes of eczema in adults
Eczema is a skin disorder that can affect anyone. It typically begins in childhood and recurs throughout adulthood, according to the National Eczema Association (NEA).
The main symptom of eczema is dry, itchy skin. It can be a very frustrating condition to live with, but you may have control over it with good coping skills and treatments.
Some causes of eczema include environmental factors, genetics, skin infections and emotional stress. You may also have allergies that trigger your eczema.
Allergies to irritants in the environment like smoke, air pollutants and harsh soaps may aggravate your eczema. Your doctor will help you identify these triggers so that you can avoid them.
Chemicals and fragrances in personal care products, laundry detergents and cosmetics can also irritate your skin. Using mild or sensitive soaps and lotions can help reduce eczema.
Sun exposure is also a common cause of eczema. UV rays can exacerbate itchiness and flare-ups of your symptoms, so be careful with sun exposure and take precautions to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
Infections
People with eczema are more likely to have bacterial and fungal skin infections. These infections can be very uncomfortable and even dangerous.
Infections can be treated by antibiotics, creams or ointments, and antifungal medication. In some cases, doctors recommend a course of phototherapy, or ultraviolet light treatment.
Eczema usually starts on the face, but can also occur in other areas, such as the hands and feet. The rash can be itchy and painful, but it is not contagious.
Does eczema genetically predispose you to it?
There is no clear answer to this question, but it is possible that a person may be more prone to developing eczema if there is a family history of the disease. It is also important to note that eczema can develop in people who do not have a family history of the disease.
In many cases, people with eczema have a genetic mutation that affects the skin barrier. This barrier is the first line of defense between your body and environmental irritants, allergens, and microbes. When it is damaged, it causes your skin to lose water and irritate itself.
Genetics contribute to atopic dermatitis
A mutation in a gene called FLG, which instructs cells to make filaggrin, is common in people with eczema. The skin isn’t able to produce enough filaggrin, which compromises the skin’s epidermis and makes it more prone to infections and allergies.
Another gene that is mutated in people with eczema is SPINK5, which instructs skin cells to make proteins. In one study, patients who had mutations in this gene were more likely to develop eczema than those without the mutation.
Other genes that are associated with a weakened immune system have also been linked to the development of eczema. These include interleukin (IL) 4, 5, and 13. They promote allergic inflammation and weaken the immune response to pathogens, which in turn reduces the skin’s ability to protect against irritation.
Is eczema curable?
There’s no cure for eczema. However, there are a variety of treatments that can help ease the symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected by the condition.
Some eczema treatment options include antihistamines (such as doxylamine or Unisom), skin moisturizers and anti-itch creams that can be applied directly to the skin. These treatments can reduce inflammation, relieve itching and help you to sleep better.
Medicated OTC shampoos can also help to treat some forms of eczema. The active ingredients in these products can help to remove scales from the scalp, reduce itching and soothe dry, irritated skin.
Topical corticosteroids are a type of medicine that is applied to the skin and can help control the symptoms of eczema. These medications may cause a mild itching sensation as you apply them. They come in different strengths and can be used for short or long periods of time.
Immunosuppressants can also help to control eczema. These drugs work by blocking the immune system’s ability to respond to specific triggers. They are commonly prescribed for children with eczema.
Phototherapy uses specific wavelengths of ultraviolet light to target the immune system and stop inflammation. It’s a non-invasive, low-cost and safe way to manage some forms of eczema.
You should always follow your doctor’s recommendations for treatment. If your eczema isn’t responding to treatment, or if you notice any side effects from the medications, contact your healthcare provider.
Diet: You should talk to a GP about any changes you can make to your diet to reduce your eczema symptoms. It’s especially important to avoid foods that you are allergic to.
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