Nummular Eczema Treatment

Otherwise known as nummular dermatitis or discoid dermatitis, nummular eczema is characterized by round and itchy lesions on the skin. The name of the condition is derived from the Latin word nummus that means coin. It may affect people of all ages, but is more common in males; especially those, who are above the age of 60.

The itchy rash associated with this disorder may develop in any part of the body, but is mostly found on the legs, arms, and the buttocks. Even though it is not contagious, nummular eczema is usually found to be a recurrent and chronic disorder, with periods of flare-ups and dormancy. It has been noticed that, the symptoms of nummular eczema worsen during winters. People with this kind of eczema may develop other forms of dermatitis too.

Nummular eczema is a condition with no exact cause. There are various suggestions regarding the causes of this condition. They include dry skin, use of some prescription medicines, like isotretinoin, poor blood flow to the legs, and bacterial infections that result in hypersensitivity of the skin.

Those living, in cold, dry climates, are more prone to this condition. Those with other forms of dermatitis, may also develop nummular eczema.

Genetic and allergic causes have been ruled out. Nummular eczema is worsened by dry weather, dry skin conditions, wearing tight woolen clothes, excess use of soaps and detergents, frequent hot bath, use of topical medication, excess intake of caffeine, and stress. Extreme climatic conditions and some type of allergies may also worsen this eczema.

As mentioned above, the most common symptom of nummular eczema is coin-shaped, itchy lesions. These lesions are mainly found on the arms, legs, and buttocks. These well-defined, itchy patches can be very small or large in diameter; and can be red, brown, or pink in color.

Such rash may appear as a single patch or numerous patches, and they persist for some weeks or even months. Later, these patches form a ring with a clear center. This may resemble a roundworm infection.

Sometimes, the patches may ooze and become crusty. Older lesions are often found to be scaly in nature. While in some cases, the lesions clear up within a year without any relapse; others may suffer from chronic, persistent, or recurrent nummular eczema.

As there is no cure for this condition, nummular eczema treatment is aimed at alleviating the symptoms. However, right diagnosis is very much important, as tests have to be conducted, to rule out the possibility of other diseases.

One of the most important part of the treatment is avoidance of triggers, and maintaining a well moisturized skin. Emollients are used to reduce the dryness of the skin, itching, scaling ,and burning sensations.

Topical steroids are also prescribed for chronic cases, to reduce irritation and other symptoms. While stronger ones are used for a few days at repeated intervals, mild ones can be used daily, if prescribed by the doctor. Some of the affected people may respond well to antibiotics, especially those with oozing lesions.

In case of severe itching, antihistamines may also be prescribed. Ultraviolet treatment for a prolonged period is found to be effective in controlling the condition in some people.

To conclude, it is always recommended to avoid triggers. Some people resort to natural remedies and alternative medicine for relief from nummular eczema. According to some health experts, avoiding allergens, like dairy products, gluten rich foods, and food additives; may prove beneficial in reducing the symptoms associated with the condition. However, self medication must be strictly avoided.

Disclaimer: This story is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.