sunburn type rash in eczema sufferer

[JJ57]

22yo male with history of eczema since infancy (also asthma/allergies).  Historically treated with hydroxyzine and topical steroid cream.  One year ago, skin condition worsened.  Experienced "sunburn" like appearance to face with severe itching to scalp and face. the usual bleeding and large, painful lymph nodes to scalp and neck.  Treated with several rounds of oral steroids and antibiotics.  No relief presently with maximum dose of hydroxyzine.  Symptoms now reappearing after recent round of steroids.  Please help!!!

[THP815]

I'm female 43 with terrible flares of eczema since infancy.  You are the first person I heard mention the sunburn affect.  I  haven't done much research but that symptom seems not to ever be mentioned.  The skin gets red, hot to touch, may produce moisture and edema, can become smooth and shiney and then get extremely dry, parched. the peel can be very painful with the itch, fissures and raw skin. sometimes that leaves a beautiful layer of skin beneath but that only lasts a couple days and then the cycle repeats itself. It is similar to sunburn but seems to come from the inside out.  I feel for you completely if that is what you are experiencing!!!!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
In most cases of eczema no one treatment will be effective. There should be a combination of therapies to treat the skin and making lifestyle changes(prevention of triggers and application of lots of moisturizers) to control flare-ups. Doing so tends to increase effectiveness and reduce side effects from medications. If the eczema is more severe, phototherapy (a type of treatment that uses light therapy) or systemic (circulates throughout the body) medication like oral steroids may be prescribed. Please discuss these options with your dermatologist and also consult an allergist to find out the triggers to which you may be allergic. Then avoiding these triggers can prevent flare ups.

I hope it helps. Take care and please do keep me posted in case you have any additional doubts. Kind regards.