Looking for the Best Eczema Treatment in Boca?

Uncontrollable itching and scratching, blotchy red bumps, dry scaly skin… Do you experience any of these symptoms?

You may be suffering from eczema, a skin condition that affects over 30 million Americans, according to the National Eczema Association.

In general, eczema refers to dermatitis, which means inflammation of the skin. There are various types of eczema, but they all essentially cause the same thing: itching and redness, with occasional blistering, weeping or peeling.

Symptoms of eczema vary from person to person, with some cases much worse than others. Your eczema might not look or feel the same as someone else’s, but the National Eczema Association notes that the main things to look for are the following:

• Dry, sensitive skin

• Red, inflamed skin

• Very bad itching

• Dark colored patches of skin

• Rough, leathery or scaly patches of skin

• Oozing or crusting

• Areas of swelling

The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but research has found that it derives from a combination of genes and the environment. Not to worry though, it is not contagious, and it is very manageable. This is something I learned this first hand from Dr. Green at Green Dermatology & Cosmetic Center, a premier medical and cosmetic dermatology center near Boca.

While there is no specific cure, there are many options when it comes to eczema treatment. I’ve used everything from over-the-counter creams to prescription topical steroids to natural and alternative remedies such as acupuncture. The main focus is not on getting rid of eczema, since this is virtually impossible, but instead learning how to manage it by being aware of what triggers a flare-up, implementing a good, daily moisturizing regimen, and using those over-the-counter or prescriptions when necessary, consistently, and as prescribed.

Dr. Green began treating me, Shaina Wizov, local blogger and eczema sufferer, after learning of my battle with this skin disorder just a few months ago.

As a dermatologist in Boca and its surrounding area, Dr. Green and his knowledge of how to treat skin disorders gave me confidence as soon as I stepped into his office. With my scratched-up legs covered in blotchy red marks and bumps, my fingers peeling from dry skin and my neck and behind my ears completely inflamed, I knew I was in good hands.

My eczema story started within the last couple of years. I grew up knowing all about this skin condition because my mom has suffered for as long as I can remember. She doesn’t wear perfume or makeup, and her lotions are all fragrance-free. It wasn’t until very recently that I noticed scaly patches of skin on the inside creases of my elbows. Sure enough, after showing my mom, she confirmed my suspicions. My eczema was minimal though, and only really revealed itself while I was working out and sweaty. A simple dab of over-the-counter Hydrocortisone did the trick during these minor flare-ups.

Then, Hurricane Irma came to visit last September.

The anticipation of this particular storm had the media going crazy. People were fleeing South Florida left and right, bolting up their homes and talking about extreme destruction. I had no idea how to process the information. I’d never experienced a hurricane. The stress began to build inside me. Do I stay or do I go? What do I do with all of my stuff? What happens if I lose everything? Where do I park my car during the storm? And most importantly, do I have enough wine and snacks to last me through the storm? (I kid, I kid…)

My anxiety was through the roof, and my body responded the only way it knew how — with visible signs on my skin. It started as hives on my thighs, developed into insatiable itchiness down to my ankles and feet, and resulted in mindless scratching even while I slept. I’d wake up in the morning with bumps and open wounds. Band-Aids made regular appearances, and short dresses and skirts were nowhere near my wardrobe rotation.

I tried a ton of different creams and lotions, topical steroids too. Quick fixes — nothing lasted. I began to wonder if I’d ever been able to put on a pair of shorts or a bathing suit again. And in South Florida, that is a huge problem.

Then I got invited to an event at Green Dermatology & Cosmetic Center a few months ago. As I wandered around the office, checking out the different treatment rooms and reading about the services offered, I ran into Dr. Green and we got to talking about my battle with eczema. He seemed incredibly eager to help and convinced he could get me back on track. His authentic personality and enthusiasm put me at ease, and an appointment was scheduled for the following week. If Dr. Green could help me learn how to manage and live with my eczema, I could wear shorts again! I could get through the day without finishing off a box of Band-Aids! I could go to sleep at night without the fear of waking up looking like I got in a fight with an insanely sharp-nailed cat!

And so my journey through eczema with Green Dermatology & Cosmetic Center began… Curious as to how Dr. Green helped me along the way? Check back soon for Part 2!

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