is this eczema?

[sintj]

Some months ago, I noticed a couple of small areas that were red. I didn't pay attention until a month ago, when I had a better look at my skin and I had red patches on the skin of my feet, raised too, I also had inflamation around the waistline. I went to a dermatologist and gave my two corticosteroid creams and corticosteroid pills to apply and take for five days. He said, it was an allergy and he didn't say anything more. After that, the patches subsided. But still I keep getting more red markings on my feet and got a small one under my nose too. I also keep keeping a bit of inflamed skin on my upper arms, but it resolves on its own soon. I plan to see the dermotologist again.
Is what I describe eczema?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to eczema or atopic dermatitis. Allergic reaction is one of the causes of eczema. Do not use any cosmetic products at the sites. You can apply some calamine lotion at the rash as it will help in soothing the skin. You can take some OTC oral antihistamine medications like Benadryl or Claritin and see if it helps.

For mild-moderate eczema a weak steroid may be used (e.g. hydrocortisone as dermacort), whilst more severe cases require a higher-potency steroid (e.g. clobetasol propionate, fluocinonide).

Eczema can be exacerbated by dryness of the skin. Use good quality moisturizers to prevent moisture loss from the skin.
It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[sintj]

Hello,

my doctor said that my rashes are allergy. Does he mean allergic contact dermatitis or atopic dermatitis or any of those?

best regards,

sintj

[sintj]

Also, I've read that if you have eczema and you find the allergen with a test, you should avoid the allergen. Avoing, obviously, will prevent rashes?