Botox for Depression: New Study Shows Promising Findings

Everyone has heard of Botox, and many know of its amazing benefits outside of aesthetic use.  Botox was first approved for therapeutic use more than three decades ago. It was developed as a treatment for eye muscle disorders like blepharospasm (involuntary blinking) and strabismus (crossed eyes). Over the years, doctors found they could use Botox to treat a variety of health conditions. As the use of Botox has increased over the years, a surprising finding has emerged. People who receive Botox, whether it is for cosmetic reasons or a medical condition, have significantly lower rates of depression.  Furthermore, we here at Village Dermatology have had a myriad of patients over the years that do not have a clinical diagnosis of depression, express a “mood-lifting” benefit after receiving their Botox treatment. So, when this study came out, we were very intrigued to read this information.  This is our attempt at summarizing the information in the study.  If you want to read the entire study, we have provided a link at the bottom of this article.

 Depression: A Global Disease

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 250 million people worldwide suffer from depression. In the United States, major depression is one of the most common mental health disorders. More than 17 million Americans report at least one major depressive episode in the past year, representing roughly 7% of the population.

Depression can result in severe functional impairment. It interferes with a person’s ability to carry out day-to-day activities. Symptoms of depression include sadness, anxiety, and a lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities. Depressed people are often irritable, frustrated, and restless. They may suffer from sleep and appetite disturbances. Feelings of worthlessness, helplessness, and guilt are common. Depression can also lead to trouble with concentration, decision making, and memory.

Due to its profound impact on a person’s health and quality of life, it’s important to recognize and treat depression.

Uses of Botox: Much More Than Facial Rejuvenation

Botox is best known for its use in facial rejuvenation. Botox injections for the treatment of facial wrinkles are the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures in the United States. They’re a safe, FDA-approved treatment to get rid of crow’s feet and frown lines. But what many people don’t know is that Botox is also approved for several medical conditions besides cosmetic use, including:

• Hyperhidrosis (abnormal sweating not related to heat or exercise)
• Migraine prevention
• Neurogenic bladder (lack of bladder control due to nerve problems)
• Overactive bladder (uncontrolled urge to urinate)
• Urinary incontinence (loss of bladder control)
• Spasticity (tight or stiff muscles)

Botox for Depression: Yes, It Works

Over the last decade, several clinical trials and studies have shown that facial Botox injections are very effective in treating depression. However, many doctors remain unconvinced because some of these studies were small. Also, it was not possible to reliably blind the patients (in a double-blind clinical trial, the patient and physician do not know whether the patient is receiving the actual drug versus a placebo). Due to the obvious cosmetic effects of Botox, it hasn’t been possible to conduct a double-blind trial in cosmetic patients.

Moreover, the mechanism by which Botox has an antidepressant effect remains unclear. It is thought that Botox relaxes the “grief muscles” that are used to express negative emotions like sadness, anger, and fear. This breaks the feedback from the face to the brain that reinforces these emotions.

New Study Results: Botox Can Treat Depression

A new study has looked at more than 45,000 clinical reports of adverse events related to Botox injections submitted to the FDA. These reports include Botox treatments not only for cosmetic purposes but also for other frequent medical indications and injection sites. In total, the authors looked at over 13 million reports submitted voluntarily to the FDA’s MedWatch program by physicians, other healthcare providers, and patients. The reports related to patients on treatment with antidepressants were eliminated from the study to avoid confusion.

The results showed that patients who received Botox had a significantly lower incidence of depression. The study confirmed the antidepressant effect of facial Botox injections shown by previous clinical trials. Surprisingly though, the antidepressant effect of Botox was also noted for other sites of injection and medical conditions. In other words, when Botox was used for migraine prevention, muscle spasms, torticollis (neck pain), blepharospasm (involuntary blinking), hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), urinary bladder disorders, and sialorrhea (excessive salivation or drooling), it had an antidepressant effect.

The authors of the study believe the mechanism of action of Botox in treating depression is more complex than simply grief muscle paralysis. But what’s clear is that cosmetic facial Botox injections in the glabellar region (between the eyebrows) have a protective effect against depression and its symptoms. This means, in the future, Botox could potentially be used to treat depression. However, further clinical studies are needed before Botox is approved as a treatment for depression.

Other reading on Botox:

How much does Botox cost?

The post Botox for Depression appeared first on Village Dermatology.

1. Ignoring the label

There are a variety of sunscreens on the market. To effectively protect yourself choose a sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or higher, is water-resistant and provides broad-spectrum coverage (meaning it covers you from both UVA and UVB rays)

1. Using too little

Adults need about 1 ounce (size of a golf ball/shot glass) to fully cover their body. Apply a liberally amount to all areas of the body before getting dressed and going outside to allow more time for your skin to absorb and provide the best protection

1. Applying too infrequently

Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours while outdoors and more frequently if your skin will become wet with activities such as swimming or sweating. Individuals who get sunburned usually don’t use enough sunscreen or didn’t reapply after being in the sun.

1. Relying solely on sunscreen

Don’t forget lip balm with SPF, wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses with UV protection, and UPF clothing. Heliocare is an oral supplement that works as an antioxidant to help prevent UV damage and skin aging when used in combination with sunscreen.

Sunscreen is meant to protect your skin against skin cancer and premature aging. However, it is not as effective unless it is applied correctly! Make sure you follow these tips to ensure adequate protection.

As always, if you have any questions about this information or simply need to speak with someone regarding your skin health, then please give us a call.

Village Dermatology

Other recommended reading:

6 myths about skin cancer

How to check yourself for skin cancer

https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/prevent/sunscreen-apply

The post Five ways you may be applying sunscreen incorrectly appeared first on Village Dermatology.

The History of Telemedicine

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It could be seen as something new, strange, or unfamiliar to a generation of medical professionals; however, telemedicine has been in existence since the 18th century. Some doctors still find this concept strange, which is partly why the adoption of telemedicine technology in recent years has been quite slow (until recently with the COVID-19 situation).

The methods of communication and, more specifically, telemedicine, have gradually evolved and improved over time from the initial invention of the electrical telegraph and, later, the telephone.

During the U.S Civil War, the telegraph was used for ordering medical supplies and also to notify family members about deaths or injuries on the battlefield. There is evidence that it was also used to communicate medical conditions and medical care from long distances.  It is important to note that before the invention of the telegraph and the telephone, communication inventions did not necessarily improve the practice of telemedicine. The popular long-distance medium of communication before these inventions was the mail.  As you might imagine, the use of mail to engage in any useful form of medical care was very difficult.

So, what is telemedicine? How did it start and its use over the years? What is its relevance to the health industry? Let’s dig into the facts.

Telemedicine – The Beginning

Telemedicine basically provided the tools for connectivity between people whereby recipients of care and their providers were unable to physically be in the same place at a time.

This idea of communicating with someone not physically present primarily started when ancient societies wanted to establish important communication between the settlements who were faced with internal and external threats.  So, inventions like smoke signals, drums, and horns were developed as a means of alerting someone at a distant location about developing information.  From these very humble beginnings, we can see the rise of telemedicine follow the rise of technology very closely.  This subsequently invented the establishment of clinical connectivity that now exists between patients and their health care provider(s).

Surprisingly telemedicine is not something that started to gain popularity in the technology age. For example, in 1924, the newspaper called Radio News had a black and white cover of a doctor conducting a patient assessment through a radio transmission.  That picture is here on this blog.  This was foreshadowing of what was going to happen over the next 100 years.

It wasn’t long before the medical field started to use the technology offered to them to better care for their patient.  For example, according to the medical literature, the first radiologic images were sent by physicians via telephone in 1948, which spanned 24 miles in Eastern Pennsylvania.

Some of the early use of telemedicine devices consisted of:

• Transmitting EKG rhythms from remote locations to a hospital via the use of voice radio channels
• The use of interactive television microwave link to transmit clinical data
• Using a coaxial cable to transmit fluoroscopic images
• Remote transmissions of EKG and X-ray data

Telemedicine in modern healthcare

Following on from when telemedicine first started, the past fifty years has seen it move into more mainstream use. Kaiser Permanente hospital announced in 2016 that they had seen patients via virtual telemedicine applications more than they have through the traditional in-person visits.

Prior to that, Kaiser Permanente hospital in 2014 to 2015 made use of telemedicine technology by:

• Viewing 37 million tests online
• Sending 20 million emails
• Scheduling over 4 million patient appointments
• Processing more than 17 million patient prescriptions

Although the telemedicine devices used presently might seem similar to those used in ancient times, modern health technology has improved this equipment to become smaller in size but greater in its range of features.

Devices such as fitness wristbands, heart rate monitor wearables are some examples of the modern-day health tools that are used to track patient’s vital data in real-time.

Popular amongst physicians are smart glasses and smartwatches, which in the long run, will become useful in relieving some of the tedious workloads of these doctors. For instance, some medical students at Stanford medical school have founded a digital health start-up that makes use of Google Glass to automatically transcribe medical records while performing patient examinations.

All these concepts and more are just evidence that with the combination of technology, there is more in place for telemedicine than its humble beginnings year ago.

There are still lots of uncharted territory and possibilities in the telemedicine industry that have not yet been explored by both private and government-owned research firms. However, given the explosion of this type of medical care recently, one can only imagine that more firms are going to start investing in this sector.  We here at Village Dermatology have always leaned into technology and welcomed any advances in technology that make our job of serving patients easier and more effective.

Currently, we are conducting patient visits virtually and will continue to do so even after this current situation calms down.  If you would like to have a virtual dermatology visit with any of our providers, then please call us or fill out the form on this page.

Stay Healthy!

Village Dermatology

For more information about Telemedicine check out our other blog entitled \”What is telemedicine?\”

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In clear terms, telemedicine is the use of telecommunications technology to provide education remotely as well as provision of health care services. This also means using said technologies to provide remote clinical services to patients in need of one.

The use of medical imaging like x-ray, medical diagnosis & evaluations including specialist consultations via video consultations are all examples of how telemedicine operates.  Telemedicine is sometimes confused for telehealth, while most times, it is used interchangeably because both represent similar services. Telehealth is a broad term that simply means the dispersion of all health services via telecommunications technology. This usually involves non-clinical services such as administrative meetings, provider training, or explaining medical education.

Telemedicine was first created to basically provide health services to patients based in remote locations, far away from healthcare services or locations where there are limited medical professionals. The success of this method has seen telemedicine explode during this recent COVID-19 public health issue, and we have embraced this platform here at Village Dermatology.

Why Telemedicine?

The answer is simple – In the recent past, both medical professionals and healthcare recipients want to spend less time gaining access to adequate health services.  However, during the COVID-19 pandemic delivering high-level medical services remotely has been perfectly tailored to the CDC recommendations of social distancing and self-quarantine.

In recent years, the rise of telemedicine today is largely due to the factor that people are always on the move and want things done immediately. Moreover, the lack of excess medical professionals available to cater to the health needs of the ever-growing population has also contributed to the rapid increase in the establishment of several telemedicine companies.

Currently, telemedicine has aided our ability to see patients for specific dermatology conditions and offer them the medical support they need at this point in time.  Furthermore, most medical practices have been pushing telemedicine off for years, and now everyone has been forced to use to this technology to treat patients accordingly.  We here at Village Dermatology have always leaned into technology, and we will continue to offer telemedicine visits after we get through this situation.

Some experts say that telemedicine has the possibility of offering 24/7 access to medical services with the assistance of an on-call medical staff employed by the company. Some of these telemedicine companies provide extra clinical staff and specialists to hospitals and large health centers to assist with special cases.  The full story of telemedicine has yet to be written as we all begin dealing with the effects of COVID-19.  However, we are thankful that we are in a position to use these resources appropriately to treat our patients.

What Are The Benefits Of Telemedicine?

Telemedicine has proved itself as an essential aspect of mainstream telehealth. When used right, it is useful for the wider health community as a legitimate form of patient care especially through secure technology.

Here are other advantages of using telemedicine:

• It helps to reduce the burden of having to travel and take time off work for medical appointments especially in situations where there are no clinicians nearby for those that live in rural locations.
• For overloaded clinicians, telemedicine serves as a means to still be able to provide the care even when physical limitations (building, parking, scheduling, etc.) are stretched beyond capacity.
• With the advent of high tech telehealth devices, it is easy to get vital clinical data of patients with critical health challenges such as chronically ill cardiac patients, diabetics or even the elderly populations
• In the event of a public health pandemic (like COVID-19) whereby physical contacts are not allowed, telemedicine is the perfect option to still be able to keep in touch with patients and provide useful health services/advice with the use of technology.
• It saves you money, considering there are fewer ER visits or trips to the doctors, plus fewer missed appointments and cancellations.

Limitations to Using Telemedicine

As is the same with all technological devices, there are some limitations on what telemedicine can be applied to. While telemedicine clearly has its huge benefits as seen above, there are some cons to it that should be put into consideration.

• For some medical conditions, even some dermatology conditions, it is impossible to provide effective health services for them, and you would need to arrange to be seen in person by your medical providers.
  • Maybe technology will continue to develop in this space, but there are some limiting factors that will prevent all medical interactions from being completed remotely. It is always best to trust your medical professional’s advice when they want to see you in person.
• The use of telemedicine could, in the long run, reduce in-person interactions with doctors.

The effects of this would mean physical examinations may become a thing of the past by which it is necessary to make a full diagnosis. Also, dangers such as physical domestic violence may go unnoticed and lead to further health challenges.

Telemedicine Summary

Given the unique situation COVID-19 has put the world in at this time we are all trying to adjust to new realities.  We are thankful that we can still continue to deliver dermatology care to our patients in an effective manner during this fluid time.  We will continue to use technology to deliver the best medical care we can without compromising patient care.  Therefore, please understand that some medical conditions simply cannot be diagnosed or treated remotely and we will discuss options of dealing with those situations when you contact our office.

Finally, please stay safe out there and remember to practice social distancing and wash your hands!  We will get through this!

Village Dermatology

The post Telemedicine appeared first on Village Dermatology.

As more of us are spending time at home, it\’s important to keep taking care of ourselves! Indulge in a spa day at home to keep you relaxed and refreshed with these self-care essentials from our Skin for Life Boutique. To respect social distancing, we are offering curbside pickup and free shipping on all online orders. Click here to shop online.

1. Babyfoot Peel $29 – If you struggle with dry, cracked feet, now is the perfect time to try Babyfoot in the comfort of your own home! This innovative peel treatment uses 16 natural extracts that are scientifically formulated to exfoliate and moisturize your feet at the same time.

How to use: Wear the plastic booties with the solution for one hour and the peel will go to work! Your dry, cracked skin will begin to peel away in 3-7 days to reveal beautiful, soft feet. Shop Babyfoot here with free shipping.

2. SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque $55 – There’s nothing a good face mask can’t fix! This decongesting clay masque uses natural clays and botanicals to unclog pores, remove impurities and balance oil production. Plant extracts and minerals calm, soothe and nourish skin as a fruit acid blend sloughs away dead, dull skin cells.

How to use: After cleansing and toning, apply a thin layer to the face, neck, and chest avoiding the eye and lip area. Set for 10-15 minutes (will not dry hard). Rinse with warm water and pat dry. Use once weekly to help remove buildup of exfoliated skin or twice weekly for congested skin. Shop for Clarifying Clay Masque in-store. Call 205.877.9735 for curbside pickup or free delivery within 5-mile radius.

3. Patchcouli’s Butter Scrub Bar $13 each – Transport to a spa with this staff favorite for exfoliated + glowing skin! These Butter Scrub Bars leave your skin exfoliated, silky soft and covered in your favorite scent.  Formulated using only the highest quality sea salt and shea butter and handmade in Rosemary Beach.

How to use:  At the end of shower or bath, gently massage over body, then rinse and pat dry. Tub or shower may become slippery. Keep bar from sitting in water. For body only. Will melt when exposed to heat. Scrub bars are available in-store only. Call 205.877.9735 for curbside pickup or free delivery within 5-mile radius.

4. Trish Candle $58 – Make your work from home routine a little easier with a candle! Instantly set the mood and lift your spirits with the irresistibly warm, uplifting scent of Trish McEvoy\’s signature Wild Blueberry Vanilla Scented Candle. Trish McEvoy is available in-store only. Call 205.877.9735 for curbside pickup or free delivery within 5-mile radius.

5. Trish McEvoy Dry Sheet Mask $29 – This dry sheet mask will give you an instantly luminous, moisture-packed glow that lasts throughout your day. In just 15 minutes, this reusable mask leaves skin dramatically hydrated, plumped and smoothed for a lifted look and soft, cushiony feel.

How to use: Place the nude side of the mask onto your clean, dry face. Pull tight, hooking the top then the bottom loops over your ears. Gently press to activate. Wear for at least 15 minutes and follow with skincare (do not rinse). Each mask can be used three times. Following removal, refold and reseal it in the original package. Store at room temperature away from heat or light. Trish McEvoy is available in-store only. Call 205.877.9735 for curbside pickup or free delivery within 5-mile radius.

6. Epionce Restorative Hand Cream $20 – Make sure your hands stay moisturized with increased handwashing. This quick-absorbing, non-greasy hydrating cream helps reverse the visible appearance of imperfections and signs of skin aging on the hands. Shop for Restorative Hand Cream in-store. Call 205.877.9735 for curbside pickup or free delivery within 5-mile radius.

7. SkinMedica Instant Bright Eye Cream $88 – Key ingredients from Lytera 2.0, HA5, plus other advanced ingredients create this new comprehensive eye treatment from SkinMedica! Instant Bright re-energizes and rejuvenates eyes to help look brighter and more youthful while working over time to continue reducing the visible signs of aging.

How to use: Apply a thin layer adjacent to and beneath the eye area and eyelids twice daily. Add on the Instant Bright Eye Masks for the ultimate boost and enhanced results.  Shop Instant Bright here with free shipping.

For additional questions, call our LABL Studio at 205.877.9735 or take advantage of our Text Retail Service. Stay safe!

The post 7 Self-Care Essentials for Staying at Home appeared first on Village Dermatology.

There are phenomenal benefits to using good skincare products on our body because, as we all know, the skin is the largest organ in the human body and is the first defense against any virus or bacteria.

Antioxidants are part of the ingredients used in popular skin care products, which helps in protecting, preventing, and limiting free radical damage to the skin and assisting with hydration and inflammation. This consequently results in the skin looking better and healthier.

Most people spend thousands of dollars on skincare products with the ideology that the more expensive it is then, the more effective or beneficial to our skin.

However, products that contain antioxidants among their ingredients are the primary determinants of just how effective a skincare product is for use. Such products help to protect and feed the skin by shielding it from the damaging effects of free radicals, which ultimately lessen or substantially prevent the signs of aging skin.

What are antioxidants?

So, what are antioxidants? Simply put, they are substances that provide protection to the skin from free radicals within and outside the body system that increases with age, which is further aggravated by environmental factors such as ultraviolet (UV), cigarette smoke, pollution and other toxic chemicals. Hence the importance of antioxidants as they help stop these free radicals from assaulting the skin and damaging healthy skin cells.

The usage of antioxidants in a skincare regimen has been widely praised by dermatologists who advise that it is a must-have to help reduce pigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles. There is no limit to the number of antioxidants that can be used in a skincare product because the more you are able to hinder the unstable molecules caused by these free radical formations, the longer you are able to protect and prolong the health of your skin.

Top Five Benefits of Antioxidants in Skin Care

• Anti-inflammation
• Skin firming
• Acts an anti-aging by reducing skin wrinkles
• Aids in the restoration of scar injuries
• Repair of sun damage

It is important to note that although all types of antioxidants are good for the skin, there are some of these substances that are more potent than others. The most common and effective ones are green tea extract, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Resveratrol, and Ferulic acid.

Green Tea extract

While this is a very popular beverage, it also serves as an antioxidant extracted from the plant Camellia sinensis. Best known for its soothing tendencies, green tea extract acts as an anti-inflammatory agent that works in preventing sunburn by providing enhanced protection against sun damage and photoaging.

It also acts as an anti-carcinogenic agent, which are chemical substances that help in the prevention of the development of cancerous elements in the body.

A well-functioning green tea extract in any skincare product is essential to protect the skin from free radicals, sunburn as well as prevention of cancer. It is a recommended antioxidant for anyone suffering from sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Resveratrol

This antioxidant helps brighten the skin and prevents the development of wrinkles. It also acts as an anti-inflammatory agent by protecting the skin from UVB-induced photodamage, pigmentation, and collagen degradation.

It is naturally found in red wine, nuts, berries, and grapes. It serves as a plant’s defensive armor, hence the reason why it actively works in promoting the skin’s cell life when included in skincare products.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a natural anti-inflammatory agent best known for its moisturizing effect, which is why it is commonly found in moisturizers, creams, and lotions designed to treat dry skin and stretch marks.

This anti-oxidant acts as a protective barrier against free radicals and premature aging. It can naturally be found in various food products such as seeds, meat, and vegetables. Unlike other vitamins, Vitamin E gets the most benefit when used topically on the skin rather than orally digested.

When added to skincare products, it works by increasing the skin’s collagen production, which results in keeping skin soft and supple, accelerating the skin’s healing process, scar prevention, reduction of fine lines, age spots, and wrinkles.

When combined with Vitamin C in skin products, it becomes one of the most potent anti-oxidant skincare choices on the market.

Vitamin C

Also known as ascorbic acid, which is found in citrus fruits, Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant commonly known for its brightening capabilities. When used for long, it evens out hyperpigmentation and dark spots, thereby revealing much brighter and fresher skin.

It is undoubtedly one of the most studied antioxidants because of its substantial benefits on the skin, making it a favorite amongst dermatologists. Such benefits are fading dark spots, prevention of skin aging, improving and sustaining the skin\’s youthful appearance, and increasing collagen production.

Similar to green tea extract, Vitamin C also works in keeping the skin hydrated and fresh. It is definitely a recommended antioxidant that needs to be added to your daily skincare regime.

Caution must be taken; however, when storing Vitamin C, exposing it to sunlight will make it lose its potency. Therefore, skincare products that contain Vitamin C should be stored in a place suitable for this anti-oxidant.

Ferulic Acid

This is a plant-based organic compound primarily associated with fighting off free radicals and skin aging, hence why it is used in almost all anti-aging skincare products. It can be used both orally and as part of anti-aging skincare serums.

Ferulic acid can be found in the cell walls of certain foods such as rice, oats, citrus, apple seeds, and eggplant.

In skincare products, Ferulic acid works well by boosting the effectiveness of other antioxidants, such as vitamins A, C, and E. A study conducted in 2005 revealed that Ferulic Acid helps to stabilize a Solution of Vitamins C and E antioxidants and doubles its photoprotection of the skin.

While ferulic acid is safe to use for any skin type, those with sensitive skin are advised to test out a small part of the product on their skin before committing fully to this substance. This is due to the possibility of developing an allergic reaction such as redness, itchiness, and hives.

Antioxidants in Skincare Conclusion

The older we get, the faster our skin begins to thin out and lose its elasticity, which is part of the human skin’s natural aging process. However, imbibing one or all of these antioxidants in our skincare regime or checking out that they are included in the skincare products that we buy will significantly help reduce the effect that free radical has on our skin.

If you have any questions or concerns about skincare products or regimens, please reach out to our expert skincare team at Village Dermatology.

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Sunscreen Protection Factor (SPF) 101

The post Antioxidants in Skincare appeared first on Village Dermatology.

Eczema is a common name for a group of conditions that cause the skin to become red, itchy, and inflamed. Included under the name eczema are several different types of this condition, such as atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, nummular dermatitis.

Question 1:  How many Americans are affected by eczema?

It is estimated that over 30 million Americans have some type of eczema.

Question 2:  What are the symptoms of eczema?

Individuals with eczema typically experience some degree of itching ranging from mild to severe. Other symptoms that vary person to person may include dry/sensitive skin, red and inflamed skin, dark-colored patches of skin, oozing or crusting, and swelling.

Question 3:  Is it worse in the wintertime? This question may be redundant based on other answers.

Some people find that their eczema flare-ups occur more frequently or get worse in the winter. Dry air combined with indoor heating systems is more likely to dry out the skin. Flareups can also be caused by wearing too many layers of clothing, taking hot baths, and using too many bed coverings. These are all things people are more likely to do during the winter months.

Question 4:  What is the treatment for eczema?

The cornerstone of eczema treatment is the daily practice of good skincare: bathing, moisturizing, using OTC and prescription medications as prescribed and avoidance of triggers. Prescription treatments may include skin creams, light therapy, and in severe cases, there are systemic agents that may be used.  Moreover, many pharmaceutical companies are investing heavily in research for better treatment options.  In fact, there is currently a new injectable medication to treat moderate to severe eczema.

Question 5:  What are the most common triggers for eczema?

Commons triggers include everyday irritants such as metals, soaps, and cleaners, fabrics, antibiotic ointments; physical triggers such as stress, skin germs, sweat, long/hot baths or showers; climate such as change in season, hot weather, cold/dry weather, high or low humidity; airborne allergens such as pet dander, pollen, mold, dust mites, and second-hand smoke.

Question 6:  Will my eczema ever go away?

Eczema is a chronic condition, but more often than not, kids tend to outgrow as they get older. However, others may continue to have flares that continue into adulthood. Even adults can develop eczema even if they didn’t have it as a child. At this time, there is no cure for eczema, but it is a condition that can be treated and better controlled.

Question 7:  Is eczema dangerous if untreated?

Currently, there is a lot of research on this subject.  To give you an analogy, years ago, we would have said that psoriasis was not “dangerous,” but the more we learn about that disease state we know that because of the high levels of inflammation in the body it can lead to a host of other issues outside of just being classified as a skin disease.  So the honest answer to the is question is we don’t know, and we are learning more about eczema every day.

Conclusion

Eczema can be a frustrating condition to deal with if not controlled correctly.  Partnering with an expert dermatology healthcare provider can ensure you are getting the best treatment options for your eczema.  As always, our team here at Village Dermatology is ready to help you manage any skin condition more effectively.  We have highly qualified dermatology providers and use the latest technology and information to treat our patients.

Live a beautiful life

More blogs and information about Eczema:

What is Eczema?

The post Eczema – 7 Questions and Answers appeared first on Village Dermatology.

What is Eczema?

Eczema is a common name for a group of conditions that cause the skin to become red, itchy, and inflamed. Included under the name eczema are several different types of this condition, such as atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, nummular dermatitis.

How many Americans are affected by eczema?

It is estimated that over 30 million Americans have some type of eczema.

What are the symptoms of eczema?

Individuals with eczema typically experience some degree of itching ranging from mild to severe. Other symptoms that vary person to person may include dry/sensitive skin, red and inflamed skin, dark-colored patches of skin, oozing or crusting, and swelling.

Is it worse in the wintertime?

Some people find that their eczema flare-ups occur more frequency or get worse in the winter. Dry air combined with indoor heating systems is more likely to dry out the skin. Flareups can also be caused by wearing too many layers of clothing, taking hot baths, and using too many bed coverings. These are all things people are more likely to do during the winter months.

What is the treatment for eczema?

The cornerstone of eczema treatment is the daily practice of good skincare: bathing, moisturizing, using OTC and prescription medications as prescribed and avoidance of triggers. Prescription treatments may include skin creams, light therapy, and in severe cases, there are systemic agents that may be used.

What are the most common triggers for eczema?

Commons triggers include everyday irritants such as metals, soaps and cleaners, fabrics, antibiotic ointments; physical triggers such as stress, skin germs, sweat, long/hot baths or showers; climate such as change in season, hot weather, cold/dry weather, high or low humidity; airborne allergens such as pet dander, pollen, mold, dust mites, and second hand smoke.

Will my eczema ever go away?

Eczema is a chronic condition, but more often than not kids tend to outgrow as they get older. However, others may continue to have flares that continue into adulthood. Even adults can develop eczema even if they didn’t have it as a child. At this time there is no cure for eczema, but it is a condition that can be treated and better controlled.

Is eczema dangerous if untreated?

Eczema is not dangerous if left untreated, but treatment is recommended to prevent eczema from getting worse, reduce the risk of skin infections, ease discomfort, which can lead to sleep problems and impact one’s self-esteem.

We hope that helped answer a few of the most common questions we get regarding this very common skin condition.  As always please let us know if you have any questions.

Live a beautiful life!

The Village Dermatology Team

The post What is eczema? appeared first on Village Dermatology.