Eczema

Eczema in Columbus, OH

Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes areas of dry, irritated, itchy skin. Patients with eczema experience “flare-ups” during which symptoms appear, worsen and then subside. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shari Hicks-Graham specializes in eczema treatments for children, teenagers and adults in the Greater Columbus area.

What is Eczema?

Eczema, also known as “atopic dermatitis,” is a skin condition that is noted by:

  • Skin that is thick, cracked, scaly and dry
  • Patches of red or brownish-gray skin
  • Moderate to severe itching that worsens at night
  • Small bumps that may leak fluid when scratched

The symptoms may appear for a period of time and then resolve. Some patients go several years before their eczema flares up again. The most common areas that are affected by eczema are the:

  • Face and scalp (primarily children)
  • Ankles
  • Wrists
  • Inside the bend of the knee or elbow
  • Hands
  • Upper chest
  • Feet

Eczema most often affects small children and infants before the age of five, but the condition can also first appear in adulthood.

Eczema Treatment Benefits

When left untreated, eczema can lead to complications, such as:

  • Eye problems if the affected skin is near the eyes
  • Thick skin with a leathery appearance caused by excessive scratching
  • Skin infections
  • Other types of dermatitis, such as allergic contact dermatitis
  • Sleep problems that can lead to emotional issues in children and adults

What Areas Can Be Treated for Eczema?

Our topical eczema treatments can be used on any part of the face or body that is affected by eczema. Oral medications will resolve the symptoms from inside the body.

What Can I Expect From Eczema Treatment?

First and foremost, Dr. Hicks-Graham asks those living with eczema to be patient. Sometimes finding the right treatment or combination of treatments takes time, especially when the condition flares up and subsides. She may recommend medications to:

  • Treat infection related to your eczema
  • Reduce itching and inflammation (topical, oral and injections)
  • Creams to help repair damaged skin caused by your eczema

Applying moist dressing to areas that are affected by eczema has proven effective, as well as phototherapy.

Eczema Treatment Preparation

When you meet with Dr. Hicks-Graham for your eczema consultation, please be prepared to discuss your personal and family history. She will also be interested in the severity and pattern of symptoms for your eczema. Tests are usually not required to diagnose eczema, but if Dr. Hicks-Graham suspects another type of skin condition, she may take skin samples and order lab work.

Eczema Treatment Recovery

Unfortunately, eczema is not curable, so the goal of treatment is to manage the flare-ups in both severity and frequency. Over time, you may find that a specific treatment no longer provides adequate relief, and Dr. Hicks-Graham may need to adjust your medications.

How Much Does Eczema Treatment Cost?

Medical insurance does cover the cost of eczema treatment, so you are only responsible for the co-payment, deductible and co-insurance as determined by your insurance carrier. We accept payment by cash, check, and major credit card. Financing is available through CareCredit®.

Is Eczema Treatment Right for Me?

Eczema can affect anyone, but certain factors make you more likely to have eczema, such as:

  • Family history of allergies or eczema
  • Working directly with patients in the healthcare field

For children, risk factors include:

  • Attending day care or other types of child care
  • Living in cities and urban areas
  • Being African-American

Eczema Consultation

You need not live with the discomfort and embarrassment of eczema. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shari Hicks-Graham specializes in eczema treatment for children and adults in the Greater Columbus area. Contact us today to schedule a personal consultation.Eczema is a frustrating skin condition that affects children and adults. If you want a permanent solution to your eczema symptoms, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shari Hicks-Graham of Downtown Dermatology is here to help!