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Eczema

Eczema is a collective term for skin inflammation with itching, redness, scales, bumps, cracks or weeping patches. The right approach depends on the type and cause. Daily moisturising often helps; pain, pus, fever or rapid spread need medical assessment.

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  • Eczema, or dermatitis, is inflammation of the skin and may have different causes and appearances.
  • Itching, dryness, scales, redness or colour changes, bumps, blisters, cracks and weeping patches may all occur.
  • Eczema is usually not contagious. An accompanying bacterial, viral or fungal infection may sometimes be transmissible.
  • Protecting the skin barrier with a suitable fragrance-free moisturiser is the daily foundation, even when symptoms are calmer.
  • Medicated ointments treat inflammation or a specific cause and must be tailored to the area, age and severity.
  • Scratching is not a lack of willpower: intense itching can cause automatic behaviour and sleep problems. A practical itch-management plan helps.
  • Fever, pus, rapidly spreading painful redness, clusters of blisters or feeling unwell need prompt assessment.

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Further reading

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Seborrhoeic dermatitis: flaky skin on the scalp, face or earsGreasy or dry flakes on the scalp, eyebrows, creases beside the nose and around the ears often suggest seborrhoeic dermatitis. It is not contagious and can return. Gentle care and a suitable shampoo or medicated treatment help; pain, pus, fever or patchy hair loss need assessment.
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Athlete's footAthlete's foot is a superficial dermatophyte infection, usually between the toes or on the sole and edges of the foot. Scaling, cracks and itching often respond to a topical antifungal and keeping the skin dry, but eczema and bacterial infections can look similar. A warm foot with rapidly spreading redness, pus, fever or a wound in someone with diabetes needs prompt assessment.
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Dry skinDry skin has too little water and fat in its outer layer. It may feel tight, rough, flaky or itchy, or develop cracks. Sun, heat, sweating, air conditioning, frequent washing and irritating products often contribute in Curaçao. Good skincare helps; inflammation, infection or an underlying illness may sometimes need medical assessment.