At Dermatology Associates of Northern Virginia, now a part of U.S. Dermatology Partners, we are dedicated to assisting patients in the Centreville area with their skin care concerns. If you have been diagnosed with eczema, you may be interested in learning about the methods of treatment available for your consideration in order to improve your skin’s health and appearance.
Eczema explained
Eczema is a skin disorder that can be a chronic issue for children and adults. Rashes that are red and itchy can develop anywhere on the body. It can be incredibly uncomfortable, and it can be difficult to get rid of without the help of a dermatologist. Over-the-counter products are often meant to keep the skin moisturized and reduce flare-ups, but once they occur, treatment by a dermatologist is the first step in finding relief.
Treatment methods
The most common treatment for eczema is topical medications, often steroids. They are applied directly to the rash where the flare-up is occurring to treat the area and bring the patient back to comfort. Dr. Neeraja Mattay and her team at Dermatology Associates of Northern Virginia encourage patients to consider this non-invasive treatment as the first line of defense. Once the condition is under control and patients are comfortable again, then the doctor may describe to patients the ways in which they can keep the skin moisturized and reduce the likelihood of developing flare-ups in the future. Treatment for eczema between flare-ups may include light therapies and certain skin care regimens to lock moisture in the skin and reduce dryness overall.
Treatment methods include some of the following services:
• Topical creams/medications
• Light therapy
• Unique skin care plan
• Barrier creams
• Antihistamine
• Antiseptics
• Avoidance of irritating products
Who can develop eczema?
Anyone of any age and ethnicity is at risk of developing eczema. The condition can often develop in the childhood years and can continue to be a chronic problem for these patients as they become adults. It can be difficult to manage if severe, but with the help of a dermatologist, a treatment plan can be developed to reduce flare-ups and then treat them effectively when they occur. We encourage patients to take the steps necessary to maintain their healthy skin between flare-ups by using moisturizers to lock in hydrated skin. It is unknown what causes or triggers eczema, but it is extremely common in both children and adults and is seen routinely in our office.
How to receive a proper diagnosis
There are so many reasons why a rash may develop on the skin, and not every rash is considered eczema. It is best to get a proper diagnosis from a dermatological professional. A primary care physician may not have the training to spot eczema and determine which rash can be treated with over-the-counter products and which one needs prescription-strength solutions. Dr. Neeraja Mattay encourages patients who have chronic rashes to visit her practice to get an appropriate diagnosis and self-care plan to control and reduce flare-ups. Our team of professionals will physically examine the rash, speak to the patients about their history of rashes, and discuss possible reasons why the flare-ups are occurring. Then, a treatment plan is developed. This includes treatment to reduce the current flare-up, and a proper skin care regimen to reduce the likelihood of flare-ups in the future. Our professionals know how important it is to get a proper diagnosis and develop a treatment plan that works to improve the overall quality of life.
If you are interested in learning more about the services and treatments we offer, contact Dermatology Associates of Northern Virginia Centreville. We assist patients of all ages in our state-of-the-art facility. We provide medical and cosmetic dermatology solutions to men and women at both our Centreville and Sterling locations. Our Centreville location can be reached at (703) 222-2773 and is conveniently located in Suite #301 at 13880 Braddock Road. We accept new patients who are ready for quality, comprehensive dermatological care.
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