Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
This page covers eczema, also called atopic dermatitis — Asthma & Allergy Care, P.C. treats both adults and children across our New Jersey offices.
What Eczema Is
Eczema is a long-term skin condition in which the skin becomes dry, itchy and inflamed. It often follows a pattern that comes and goes, with periods of flare-up followed by periods of calm.
The condition can appear at any age and affects people differently. Ongoing or recurring symptoms are worth having evaluated.
Asthma & Allergy Care, P.C. evaluates and treats eczema in adults and children across our New Jersey offices.
Symptoms to Watch For
These are common signs of eczema. If you notice any of these, it's worth having them evaluated.
Dry, itchy skin
Red or inflamed patches
Skin that thickens where it has been scratched
Patches in the creases of the elbows or knees
Flares that settle and then return
Skin that is easily irritated by soaps or fabrics
How We Evaluate It
Evaluating eczema starts with understanding you as an individual. We use these methods:
A Full History
We start by talking with you about your symptoms, when they appear, and anything you may have been exposed to.
A Physical Examination
A hands-on exam helps us understand your symptoms and rule out other causes.
Allergy Skin Testing, Where Relevant
If an allergy may be involved, we may recommend allergy skin testing to identify triggers.
Blood Testing, Where Appropriate
In some cases, blood testing can help us understand what may be contributing to your symptoms.
How We Treat It
Our approach to treating eczema includes:
Managing Medication
We help you manage medication to reduce your symptoms and keep flares under control.
Identifying and Avoiding Triggers
We work with you to identify the trigger or triggers involved and how to avoid them.
Allergy Shots, Where Appropriate
When appropriate, allergy shots, given as injections, may be part of your treatment plan.
An Individual Treatment Plan
We build a treatment plan specific to you and review it with you over time.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
A little preparation makes your first visit go smoothly.
Plan for a Longer Visit
Your first appointment takes longer than a routine visit, so we can take a full history and get to know you.
Bring Your Insurance Card
Please bring your insurance card, along with any referral your plan requires.
Bring a Medication List
A list of the medications you currently take helps us understand your full picture.
Complete Forms in Advance
You can save time by completing your forms in advance from our Patient Forms page. Visit Patient Forms