Eczema Specialist

Consultants in Asthma, Allergy and Immunology

Allergists & Immunologists located in Clark, NJ, Clifton, NJ & Garfield, NJ

If you suffer from itchy, irritating eczema, the board-certified adult and pediatric allergy and immunology specialists at Consultants in Asthma, Allergy and Immunology can help. Peter Benincasa, MD, and Richard E. Luka, MD, provide personalized treatment for children and adults with eczema at their convenient locations in Clark, Clifton, and Garfield, New Jersey. If you think you or your child may have eczema, call or go online to book an appointment today.

Eczema Q & A

What is eczema?

Eczema refers to several skin conditions that cause redness, itching, and irritation. The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis. Eczema can occur at any age but is especially prevalent in children under five years old.

When you have eczema, your skin becomes very itchy. Though eczema isn’t contagious, it’s important not to scratch the affected surface. Scratching may worsen the condition, leading to redness, swelling, and increased sensitivity.

What are the symptoms of eczema?

Eczema symptoms vary significantly from person to person. You may have eczema if you experience one or more of the following symptoms:

Dry, itchy skin
Red or brown patches, especially on the hands, feet, face, inside the elbows, or behind the knees
Raised bumps that may ooze and crust over when scratched
Cracked or scaly skin

In some cases, eczema symptoms can flare up and then disappear for several years. Eczema is a chronic condition that typically persists throughout adulthood.

What causes eczema?

Eczema is a genetic condition that affects your skin’s ability to retain protective moisture. Specific factors may increase your risk of developing eczema, such as:

A family history of eczema
Personal or family history of allergies, asthma, or hay fever
Living in a dry climate
Food allergies, usually in children

Stress and exposure to things that irritate your skin may worsen your condition, but stress isn’t a direct cause of eczema.

How do you diagnose and treat eczema?

Drs. Benincasa and Luka can diagnose eczema by visually examining your skin and reviewing your medical history. They may also perform a variety of tests to make sure you don’t have another skin condition.

Eczema can be challenging to treat, but Drs. Benincasa and Luka will work with you to determine the best approach to managing your symptoms. Depending on your situation, eczema treatment may include:

Avoiding skin irritants such as certain soaps or lotions
Avoiding things you’re allergic to
Stress reduction techniques
Light therapy
Medicated creams to control itching and repair skin
Oral medications to reduce inflammation
New biologic therapies to control inflammation

For expert care in eczema treatment, call or go online to book an appointment with Consultants in Asthma, Allergy and Immunology.