Eczema & Atopic Dermatitis in Silver Spring, Maryland
Eczema can cause itching, dryness, redness, and recurring skin flares. Our team evaluates eczema in children and adults, identifies possible allergic triggers, and develops personalized treatment plans based on individual needs.
What is Eczema?
Atopic dermatitis is a common chronic inflammatory skin condition. The skin barrier becomes less effective, which can lead to dryness, irritation and intense itching. Symptoms often come and go over time.
Common Symptoms:
- Dry or scaly skin
- Itching
- Red or inflamed patches
- Thickened skin from repeated scratching
- Cracking or oozing during flares
- Sleep disruption from itching
Eczema and Allergies
Eczema is associated with allergic disease, but not every eczema flare is caused by a specific allergen. Some patients also have
food allergies,
environmental allergies,
asthma or allergic rhinitis. Our team looks at the full clinical picture before deciding whether allergy testing is useful.
Common Triggers and Flare Factors
- Dry skin
- Heat and sweating
- Fragrances or harsh skin-care products
- Certain fabrics or irritants
- Environmental allergens in selected patients
- Food allergy in selected patients
- Stress and scratching
How Is Eczema Evaluated?
Evaluation may include symptom history, skin examination, family history, other allergic conditions, suspected exposures, and review of previous treatments. Allergy testing is recommended only when the history supports a specific concern.
How Is Eczema Managed?
Management often combines daily skin-barrier care with treatment of inflammation and identified triggers.
- Regular moisturization
- Gentle bathing and skin-care routines
- Avoidance of known irritants
- Topical medications when prescribed
- Evaluation for related allergies when appropriate
- Management of asthma or allergic rhinitis when present
When Should You See an Allergist?
Consider allergy evaluation when eczema is difficult to control, flares appear linked to specific foods or exposures, the patient has other allergic conditions, or there is concern for an immediate allergic reaction in addition to eczema.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about eczema and treatments we offer at our office in Silver Spring.
Still have a question?
Call our office and our team will be happy to answer any questions you may have about treatments, scheduling, or anything else.
Is eczema an allergy?
Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition. Allergies can coexist with eczema and may worsen symptoms in some patients, but eczema is not always caused by an allergy.
Can food allergies cause eczema?
Food allergy can be relevant in selected patients, especially when there is a clear reaction history, but routine broad food testing is not appropriate for every patient with eczema.
Do children outgrow eczema?
Symptoms may improve with age for some children, while others continue to have eczema into adolescence or adulthood.
Can allergy testing help eczema?
It can be useful when the history suggests a specific allergic trigger or another allergic condition is present.
What is the difference between eczema and contact dermatitis?
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition. Contact dermatitis occurs when skin reacts to a substance that touches it and may require patch testing to identify a trigger.
Do you treat adults with eczema?
Yes. Our team evaluates allergic conditions in both children and adults.
Get Treatment for Eczema
If these symptoms or concerns are affecting you or your child, our team can help determine whether allergy or immunology evaluation is appropriate and create an individualized care plan.
Phone: (240) 531-2902
