Discoid eczema, also referred to as nummular eczema or discoid dermatitis, is a type of eczema that is characterized by round or oval-shaped patches of inflamed, itchy, and red skin. This informative guide will provide you with details on the causes, symptoms, and available treatment options for discoid eczema, allowing you to gain a solid understanding of the condition and manage it more effectively in your daily life.
What are the symptoms?
Discoid eczema is a chronic skin condition that is characterized by round patches of inflamed, itchy and red skin. These patches can vary in size and may be accompanied by dryness, scaling and crusting. Other more severe symptoms may include cracked or weeping skin; this occurs when the skin becomes extremely dry or irritated, leading to the formation of cracks or blisters. Early stage discoid eczema is often numerous small red bumps which later develop into larger round patches of discoid eczema if untreated, so noticing symptoms early and applying the necessary measures will allow you to manage it more effectively. The exact cause of discoid eczema is unknown; however, it is believed to be related to genetic, environmental and immune system factors.
Who is most prone?
While anyone can develop discoid eczema, there are certain factors that can put someone at a higher risk of developing the condition. The first factor is genetics; people that have a family history of eczema or other allergic conditions such as asthma or hay fever, are at a higher risk of developing the condition than those that don’t.
Another risk factor is age; although discoid eczema can occur at any age, it is more common amongst older adults. The reason it occurs amongst a slightly older age demographic is due to factors such as weakened immune systems, reduced physical activity and increased stress levels. These factors can weaken the skin’s barrier and disrupt its natural protective mechanisms, making it more susceptible to inflammation and irritation.
Discoid Eczema treatment
Apply a moisturizer
Moisturizers play a crucial role in the treatment of discoid eczema. Dry, inflamed skin needs to be moisturized frequently in order to lock the moisture back into the skin and restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Moisturizers create a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, which helps alleviate symptoms such as itching and inflammation. In addition, moisturizers can help improve the overall appearance and texture of the skin affected by discoid eczema.
It is recommended to apply a moisturizer throughout the day to the affected area in order to hydrate the skin and manage symptoms effectively. The best time to apply is when the skin is most dried out, this normally occurs after the skin is exposed to heat in the shower. It is worth applying a generous amount of moisturizer to the affected area after each shower to improve the symptoms of discoid eczema and enhance the effectiveness of other treatment methods.
Use bath salts
The use of bath salts can be an effective method for finding relief and managing discoid eczema symptoms due to their soothing and moisturizing properties. When dissolved in warm water, bath salts release minerals and nutrients that hydrate and nourish the skin. These properties can help alleviate certain symptoms associated with discoid eczema such as dryness, itching and inflammation.
In addition, they have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can allow the skin to heal. It is recommended to use 1 to 2 cups of Epsom salt or dead sea salt per bath and to soak for at least 20 minutes. To see the full benefits of bath salts for eczema relief, it is recommended to do this every night, however, the amount of salt baths you choose to have per week will depend on the severity of your symptoms. If you would like to see some recommendations on bath salts for eczema, then check out my best bath salts for eczema article.
Avoid harsh chemicals
It is worth nothing that harmful chemicals can have a detrimental impact on discoid eczema as they irritate the skin, so it is important to identify these so you can take the necessary preventative measures. These chemicals can often be difficult to avoid as they are found in many household and personal care products; these chemicals can include fragrances, preservatives and dyes.
It is important to be wary of harsh chemicals in household products in order to avoid frequent flare-ups. For instance, potential irritants in hand soaps are chemicals such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Parabens. These chemicals can also be found in various shampoos and body washes; being wary of these two chemicals in any household products that you use and finding a suitable alternative could help you avoid exacerbating symptoms. If you would like some recommendations on eczema friendly hand soaps, then check out my best soaps for hand eczema article, which recommends SLS and paraben free products.
It is also recommended to wear rubber gloves when washing the dishes or cleaning surfaces in order to avoid exposure to chemicals in cleaning products that could cause irritation to the skin such as solvents and detergents.
The link between discoid eczema and temperature
It is worth noting that temperature can play a significant role in the development of discoid eczema, so it is important to be cautious in order to avoid potential flare-ups. Exposure to extremely cold temperatures, can irritate the skin and exacerbate symptoms. Very cold weather can cause the skin to become dry and dehydrated, leading to increased itchiness and inflammation. Cold temperatures can constrict blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the skin and preventing its ability to heal.
It is essential for discoid eczema sufferers to be mindful of temperature changes and take the necessary measures to protect their skin, such as using moisturizers, wearing the appropriate clothing, and avoiding prolonged exposure to very cold temperatures. It is important to be militant and apply these preventative measures whenever there is extremely cold weather in order to see the best results for your skin.
How to combat extreme cases of discoid eczema
If you’re dealing with a severe case of discoid eczema, it may be time to seek professional help. Dermatologists and other health care specialists will be able to provide expert guidance and recommended the appropriate treatment for your specific situation. In some scenarios, they may recommend prescription medication in order to manage the condition effectively. These medications may include topical creams, shampoos, or oral medications which target the underlying causes of discoid eczema. It is important to consult a healthcare professional if you are struggling to determine the best course of action based on your individual needs.