Causes of Eczema

About two years ago I was diagnosed with eczema.  Since then I have had itchy spots on my back, legs and arms.  I have used prescription creams such as Lac Hydrin and Temovate E to control the spread and itch.  Recently I went on vacation for two weeks in France.  By the end of the first week, all my symptoms were gone.  I have been trying to figure out what in my home is causing the symptoms, and I would like to know if you have ever heard of Soft Water causing this problem.  The apartment I stayed in France had rather hard water and was not treated.  Since coming home, the symptoms have come back.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Robert:

Eczema is best thought of as a hereditary sensitivity of the skin which manifests itself at different ages on different parts of th body, such as the hands, eyelids, or expremities, with dry-looking, itchy patches.  Despite its reputation, eczema is rarely allergic.  The "usual suspects" are: soaps,dtergents, foods, stress, changes in air and water, and so forth.  These rarely if even hold true, in my experience.  You just have to come to terms with the fact that your skin will act up sometimes, at which point you slam it down with the creams you were given.  It's annoying, but easily controlled in mild cases like yours, and it may well go away and leave you alone for long periods, too.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff

[Jack]

What the little white bumps on my sack