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Eczema treatment, since the 1950s, has been primarily to prevent inflammation and itching.

While eczema cannot be cured, its symptoms can be controlled.

Effective treatment requires a correct diagnosis, however, it is not easy to distinguish eczema from similar skin conditions. Dermatologists have the medical experience needed to see if eczema is present and which type. In diagnosing eczema, doctors examine the skin and ask several questions so they can determine the proper skin care needed. Some the questions they ask include:

• When did the condition first appear on the skin?
• What signs exists such as itching and inflammation of the skin?
• Does your family history include close relatives who have asthma, hay fever, or eczema?

Once eczema is diagnosed, the primary goal is to relieve discomfort. Eczema is usually dry and itchy so most treatment plans involve applying lotions, creams or ointments to keep the skin moist. The treatment plan also may require lifestyle changes such as avoiding exposure to sunlight, tanning beds, sun lamps, and treatment with ultraviolet (UV) light. Sun protection is essential.

If the skin is infected, a topical or oral antibiotic may be prescribed to kill bacteria. For severe itching, sedative antihistamines are sometimes used. These are available over-the-counter. In certain extreme cases of eczema, topical corticosteroids have been used. Also known as glucocorticoids and steroids, dermatologists use these drugs more than any other medication to alleviate the signs and symptoms of eczema. The strength prescribed depends on the patient's age, severity of the eczema, and where on the body the medication will be used.

So many factors affect why a person develops eczema. Sometimes it takes time to find an effective treatment plan.

Jennifer Ann Deters is a contributing writer for Cosmetics-n-Skincare.com. For more News, Articles, Guides, Tips, Tricks and various Skincare Products information... visit our site at Cosmetics-n-skincare.com.