Nummular Eczema: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Is it Contagious, How Long Does it Last?

Nummular Eczema which is also known by the name of Discoid Eczema is a chronic skin condition in which there is development of coin shaped lesions on the surface of the skin. These lesions are well defined with regular edges. Normally, lesions caused by Nummular Eczema are itchy and sometimes may drain clear fluid. They often become dry and crusty in the later stages of the condition.

Nummular Eczema more often than not appears after an injury to the skin like a burn or an abrasion. It may also develop after an insect bite. There may be a solitary lesion or multiple lesions spread throughout the body. These lesions may leave behind patches on the skin surface which may take several months to disappear.

Nummular Eczema is seen to occur more often in males than females. Males in the age range of 50-60 years of age tend to get it while females in their teenage years tend to get Nummular Eczema. Nummular Eczema usually is treated with topical creams and medications and their symptoms often at times are quite bothersome and irritating.

Nummular Eczema is not a contagious condition and is not passed from one individual to other by any means. As of yet there has been no specific cause identified for Nummular Eczema.

It is not yet known as to what exactly is the cause of Nummular Eczema but it is believed that if any of the family members have a history of skin conditions like atopic dermatitis, allergies, or asthma then that increases the risk factor for developing Nummular Eczema.

People with extremely sensitive skin are also at risk for developing Nummular Eczema. Some of the factors that can increase your chance to getting Nummular Eczema are:

• Temperature changes
• Excessive stress
• Dry and sensitive skin
• Environmental irritants like soaps and metals

One of the most common symptoms of Nummular Eczema is the development of coin shaped lesions on the skin which are spread throughout the body. These coin shaped lesions are mostly seen in the arms or legs and are pink in color. At times, these lesions may cause itchiness or burning sensation. In some cases, these lesions may drain clear fluid.

If an individual suspects that he or she has Nummular Eczema then it is always recommended to consult a dermatologist for adequate treatment. If Nummular Eczema is left untreated then it may lead to other skin infections which may require more aggressive treatments.

A diagnosis of Nummular Eczema can be made by taking the history of the patient to inquire about any prior history of atopic dermatitis or allergies along with a close inspection of the lesions. The characteristic coin shape of the lesions is a virtual give away that the patient is dealing with Nummular Eczema.

Some physicians may perform a skin biopsy to rule out any skin infections causing the symptoms other than Nummular Eczema. If the physician suspects that an allergic reaction is at play here then an allergy test may be performed to rule it out and confirm the diagnosis of Nummular Eczema.

Nummular Eczema does not have a permanent cure, although the symptoms that it produces can be managed through lifestyle changes and avoiding triggers that may aggravate the symptoms.

Some of the things that you need to avoid till these coin-shaped lesions of Nummular Eczema clear up are:

• It is preferable to avoid using harsh body wash or soaps on the skin.
• Woolen clothing and other rough fabrics are likely to irritate the skin and may aggravate the symptoms.
• Excessive bathing in hot water is advised
• Manage stress in the best possible way
• In case if you have a sensitive skin then it is important that you prevent hurting yourself which can cause bruises, cuts or skin scrapes so as to avoid getting Nummular Eczema
• Avoid exposure to irritants like house cleaning agents and other chemicals like fabric softner.

Some of the ways to help relieve the symptoms of Nummular Eczema are:

• Protect the affected area with moist bandages
• For relief from itching and pain caused due to the lesion of Nummular Eczema, antihistamines are recommended
• Skin creams and lotions that are prescribed by the dermatologist can be applied to get relief from itching and pain
• Keep the skin hydrated by utilizing a natural moisturizer to prevent aggravation of symptoms of Nummular Eczema

With adequate and regular treatment, it takes approximately a year for the lesions caused from Nummular Eczema to completely go away. It should be noted here that Nummular Eczema is a chronic condition and tends to wax and wane, so one may never be able to completely get rid of t Nummular Eczema lesions. The coin shaped lesions of Nummular Eczema on the legs and thigh take much longer to heal and leave behind thick spots. Thus it is recommended to avoid triggers so as not to aggravate the symptoms of Nummular Eczema.

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