Philip Walsh - What is eczema around the eyes?

What is eczema around the eyes?
There are different types of eczema, although the most common form is referred to as atopic eczema. While it is more frequent in children, it can continue into adulthood.

Eczema causes the skin to dry out and become itchy, red and cracked. It is a chronic condition, which means it usually recurs long term.

If you have eczema you may find that it affects the area around your eyes. This is because the condition is most common in places where there are folds of skin.

Eczema around the eyes will often worsen if you rub the irritated area. Other factors that may cause a flare-up include the consumption of certain foods, weather conditions and stress or anxiety.

There appears to be a genetic component to eczema, with the condition running in families. It also often occurs alongside other conditions such as hay fever or asthma.


Are there treatments for eye eczema?
Eczema is usually treated with emollients - otherwise known as moisturising treatments - or topical corticosteroids. You may also be advised to stop using soaps, as these dry out the skin, and avoid irritants.

There are many different types of emollients, with some acting as bath additives and others coming in creams or ointments.

Emollients help by:

• Reducing scaling
• Softening cracks
• Preventing itching
• Holding in moisture
• Helping other creams to enter the skin
  
  

Topical corticosteroids may also be prescribed. Their main purpose is to stop skin irritation and inflammation, although it is important to get the right strength steroid for the skin around your eyes.  Your local doctor or Specsavers optometrist will provide you with further advice on a suitable treatment plan.  For more information, visit www.specsavers.co.nz.