Eczema, a skin condition gives many people a lot of concern. Pharmacist Adenika P. Kehinde, the technical director of Kefol Pharmacy, Ota, Ogun State in an interview with Naomi Omoruyi sheds light on some of the concerns, its treatment, and prevention.
What is eczema?
Eczema is a fungal infection. This means a fungus from the environment invades the body cells through the skin.
How are people prone to eczema?
Staying in a crowded or poorly ventilated area consistently and for prolonged periods may predispose one to eczema. This is usually common for poorly ventilated houses or workplaces. The reason this is a major cause of eczema is that poor ventilation leads to a stuffy and hot environment. Excessive sweating is imminent and the risk of infection is very high.
Poor hygiene is also a cause. When one re-wears clothes that have been used to work or play especially for a long period one is at a very high risk of being infected.
Sharing of clothing items or towels with an infected person or not properly laundering second-hand clothes are also causes of eczema.
Is eczema a skin or blood problem?
The pathogenic fungi go in through the skin and the affected area looks somewhat bleached. But if not treated on time could become systemic, that is, gets into the blood. For this reason, eczema must be treated with both topical creams and systemic drugs.
Is eczema something one should be worried about? is it a sign of something else more deadly?
No. Eczema is not an indicator of any worse disease. One does not have to be overly worried but it should be taken care of as soon as it is detected because it is disfiguring and could also emit a bad odour or for some people, it could itch.
What kind of creams are appropriate? Does one need a doctor’s prescription first?
For Eczema, the treatment is usually antifungal creams or drugs. They can be purchased over the counter.
Why do people use antifungal creams and after a while it comes back? Is it an issue of the ineffectiveness of the cream?
No, it is not an issue with the cream. Eczema could reoccur if not properly treated. This is why both systemic and topical treatments are required.
Is eczema hereditary?
No, eczema is not hereditary. But it is contagious. This is why sharing clothes with an infected person or not properly laundering second-hand clothes before use are high-risk factors.
So how does one prevent eczema?
In conclusion, to prevent eczema, maintain personal hygiene by washing clothes regularly, bathing as regularly as at least twice daily with a good sponge, and the use of antiseptic soaps.