2. Eczema
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition in adults. The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that 1 to 3 percent of adults have the disease. Most people develop the disease during childhood or adolescence and it persists into adulthood. Less often, it develops exclusively in adulthood. Inflamed, red, dry, itchy patches of skin characterize eczema. The plaques can appear anywhere on the body, but most often they are seen on the elbows, hands, and skin folds.
Eczema has strong genetic links and is commonly associated with asthma and hay fever (allergic rhinitis). It is estimated that about 70% of people diagnosed with eczema have a family history of eczema, asthma, or hay fever. Eczema is not contagious. It has no cure, but can be controlled with topical steroid creams and ointments, oral antihistamines, and immunosuppressants (drugs that prevent the immune system from overreacting). Particularly resistant cases of eczema can be treated with light therapy or phototherapy.
3. Beehives
Hives, also known as hives, are raised red bumps (welts) that suddenly appear on the surface of the skin. The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology estimates that the disease affects about 20% of people at some point in their lives. Urticaria can occur anywhere on the body. They are usually itchy, but can also sting or burn. Beehives turn white or white when squeezed. They vary in size from small to large and can merge or join together to form a very large mass.
Urticaria is usually caused by an allergic reaction to drugs, foods, or food additives; but they can also be caused by bacterial infections (streptococci) and physical factors such as cold, exercise or sunlight. They are generally acute (duration < 6 semaines), mais peuvent être chroniques (durée > 6 weeks). Since chemicals called histamines cause many symptoms of hives, antihistamines provide effective relief.
