Eczema is a common skin condition familiar to many. Suffering from eczema not only affects the patient's physical health but also disrupts daily life. Those who have experienced eczema know it can be stubborn and recurrent, much like psoriasis. Patients must also endure sudden, intense itching.Some people immediately apply 999 Dermatitis Ointment upon noticing redness or swelling, but this not only fails to help but can worsen symptoms. With numerous types of eczema, never self-medicate without a full understanding to avoid incorrect treatment.
Eczema triggers are diverse, including contact with irritants like dish soap, chemical products, or disinfectants. Chronic dry skin, insufficient hydration, and damage to the skin's protective barrier also contribute. Beyond external factors, psychological stress—particularly severe anxiety—can trigger flare-ups, manifesting as itching and redness when emotions escalate.
How can eczema be prevented? How can it be cured? Or at least alleviated? These are questions many sufferers seek answers to. The Changxiao Health public account previously published an eczema handbook authored by Dr. Yan Shuxian, Associate Chief Physician at the Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University. The handbook is divided into three sections, offering professional insights from understanding eczema and its causes to prevention and treatment.Dr. Yan explains that eczema's causes are complex, often resulting from the interaction of internal and external factors. It significantly impacts daily life and work. Therefore, patients must understand its causes to facilitate early prevention and treatment.
Expert Profile
Yan Shuxian (MD)
Associate Chief Physician, Medical Laser Center, Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University
Specializes in research and treatment of photodermatology, medical aesthetic conditions, and cosmetic laser therapies, with in-depth expertise in ultraviolet radiation and skincare products. Has led multiple research projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, Shanghai Municipal Health Bureau, CMA, and CDA.As first or corresponding author, she has published over 20 academic papers, with more than 10 indexed in international SCI journals. She has contributed to the compilation of specialized works including Laser Medicine and Cosmetology for Skin, Laser and Phototherapy for Skin Aesthetics, and Applications of Photodynamic Medicine in Dermatology.
Some patients, however, resort to desperate measures when facing eczema, believing in folk remedies or falling into treatment pitfalls, which often exacerbates the condition.Regarding common misconceptions about eczema, Director Yan provides a concise overview in the handbook.
Misconception 1: Eczema is contagious.
Eczema is a genetic condition; if grandparents have eczema, the likelihood of parents or children developing it is generally higher. However, eczema cannot be transmitted through friction or contact.
Misconception 2: Eczema inheritance is inevitable
While eczema's hereditary nature is undeniable, there are ways to reduce susceptibility. For instance, applying moisturizer daily to infants from an early age can significantly lower their risk of developing eczema.
Misconception 3: Eczema is caused by stress
It's important to distinguish: Stress does not cause eczema, but it can worsen skin symptoms. Stress triggers the release of hormones that exacerbate inflammation, making individuals more prone to scratching and worsening eczema.
Misconception 4: Eczema heals on its own
Due to its complex causes, eczema generally does not resolve without intervention and tends to recur, especially in adults.Eczema arises from diverse triggers, primarily including an individual's allergic constitution combined with unhealthy lifestyle habits. These may involve consuming spicy, irritating, or greasy foods, frequent alcohol consumption, internal damp-heat accumulation, or emotional fluctuations during treatment. Therefore, targeted treatment is recommended.
Numerous misconceptions persist about eczema. Do eczema patients have "toxic blood"? Does staying in air-conditioned rooms truly "soothe" eczema? Can frequent hot compresses or scalding baths effectively relieve itching? Many patients likely share these doubts. To explore more common misconceptions, search "Changxiao Health" on WeChat, click "More Highlights - Original Collection," and find the answers you seek.
Beyond the eczema guide, the Changxiao Health official account offers manuals for various conditions—including cervical cancer, fatty liver disease, osteoporosis, and menopause. Each manual provides comprehensive health knowledge, from foundational understanding to scientific prevention. Content is authored and reviewed by specialists with years of clinical experience, ensuring professional, practical, and scientifically sound disease education.
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