Eczema on legs can be caused by a number of skin conditions, generally categorized as Eczema. They are triggered by different factors but exhibit almost similar symptoms.

All types of eczema are not contagious. They are also not fatal. Complications mostly arise when affected areas are left long without treatment and get infected or cracked.

Hand eczema pictures and eczema pictures on legs can help to some extent with self-diagnosis. It happens that about three different eczema types can occur both on hands and legs.

There is no cure for eczema. Available how to get rid of eczema treatment options seek to manage the condition as well as prevent from frequent flares. Some natural treatment options such inclusion of omega-3 fatty acids in meals seek to aid in mending of damaged skin.

Types, causes and symptoms of eczema on legs

The following eczema types can appear on legs;

Atopic eczema

It is a chronic skin condition that mostly appears at early childhood. It occurs more in people from family lines with asthma, hay fever and allergies to some foods. In children, it can appear on top of the feet but less often. In adults, it appears behind the knees and on ankles.

Contact eczema

This type is triggered after contact with allergens or irritants. It is subdivided into two types; allergic contact eczema and irritant contact eczema. Common irritants that can trigger it include; detergents, metals such as nickel, soaps, sweat urine. Common allergens include; chemicals, medications, foods, cosmetics, fabrics. Contact eczema appears after prolonged exposure.

Dyshidrotic eczema

This type appears on hands, fingers, toes and sole of the feet. It is the common cause of the different types of eczema on fingers. Its main symptoms include itchy tiny blisters that feel like bumps or lesions. The blisters are usually fluid-filled. Without treatment, cracks and flakes will develop.

Nummular eczema

This eczema type causes circular patches on irritated skin regions. It is rare in children. In adults, it appears on arms, chest and legs. People with other skin conditions such as athlete’s foot are more predisposed. Initially, small skin regions show signs of irritation. They later develop into red, round and itchy scaly patches. Nummular eczema can sometimes be confused with ringworm.

Asteatotic eczema

Dry and less humid weather conditions are the main causes of this eczema type. It result[s in dried skin and finely formed cracks. Most cases are reported on lower parts of the legs. Some cases are painful, especially if cracks have formed.

Stasis eczema

Malfunctioning blood veins on lower legs are responsible for this type. It occurs after blood veins are unable to sufficiently empty blood into adjacent veins, leading to inflammation and other symptoms of eczema. It is associated with varicose veins.

Causes

Possible causes of eczema on legs depend on the particular type. Atopic eczema is related to hereditary factors and allergies. Contact eczema is caused by contact with irritants and allergens. Stasis eczema is caused by damage sustained on veins in lower legs. Dyshidrotic eczema tends to occur more in times of stress. Asteatotic eczema on the other hand is caused by dry weather conditions, such as staying indoors during winter.

Eczema symptoms on legs

Eczema symptoms on legs are very much similar with common signs of eczema. Slight differences arise depending on the type and location. They include;

• Extreme and almost unbearable itching. It is usually the first symptom and worse in cases such as eczema near eye.
• Red rash consisted of tiny fluid-filled bumps. The bumps are differently sized
• The itch usually turns into a burning sensation especially when scratched or on sensitive body parts
• Blisters may form from the bumps. The fluid from the blisters forms ‘weeping’ crusts. If infected, the crusts will turn golden
• Thickening and inflammation of the affected areas
• Cracks may develop on the patches if not hydrated in time

How to get rid of eczema on legs

Before it comes to how to get rid of eczema on legs, a diagnosis is usually necessary. A number of other skin conditions can be mistaken with eczema. Doctors can identify the condition by examining the affected areas. Sometimes, a biopsy may be required, especially when psoriasis may be involved.

Below are the common how to treat eczema symptoms on legs medically;

• Moisturizers and emollients – they are applied to the affected areas to reduce dryness and prevent from cracking. Creams and ointments are mostly used.
• Corticosteroids – these are weaker versions of steroids used to treat inflammatory diseases. They help treat eczema symptoms on legs effectively in short-term. Most cases are treate9d with cream and ointments but pills or injections can be considered for severe cases.
• Antihistamines – they are anti-itch medications, very helpful when it comes to relieving the itchiness caused by eczema.
• Antibiotics – these are bacteria fighting medications. They are only necessary when open sores or cracks have formed and may act as entry points for bacteria.
• Immune suppressing drugs – these are .used for atopic and contact eczema. Their aim is to suppress immune system, so as to prevent from allergic reactions.
• Phototherapy – phototherapy can be achieved through timed exposure periods to natural sunlight or to artificial UV rays. It works by naturally promoting skin rejuvenation.

Natural remedies for eczema on legs treatment

Some natural remedies can be used for long-term management of eczema on legs. They include;

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera helps ease itch and also acts as an anti-microbial. It is relatively mild and in fact one of the best home remedies for eczema on face. Furthermore, it can help protect from moisture loss due to evaporation.

Oatmeal

This is among the most potent natural remedies in regards to how to get rid of eczema on legs naturally. It effectively protects from moisture loss and consequential cracking on the affected areas. Oatmeal is best used in bath water, where the affected regions are to be soaked in for about 15 minutes. A cup of finely grinded oatmeal in bath water will do.

Coconut oil and tea tree oil

Coconut oil is used as carrier oil for tea tree oil. This combination has a lot of eczema fighting benefits. It for one keeps the skin hydrated. It also keeps bacteria from accumulating on the affected areas. Lavender oil can be used in place of tea tree oil. it is a skin soother but a milder anti-bacterial. Almond oil can replace coconut oil as carrier oil.

Shea butter DIY cream

This is a very effective natural cure for eczema on legs. To make it at home, it should be melted and added to liquid beeswax. To the mixture, add jojoba oil and coconut oil or lavender oil. The mixture is to be applied directly to the affected areas. For best results, a bandage can be used to hold the natural cure when sleeping.

Eczema on legs prevention and treatment at home

Prevention measures are for many reasons the best eczema treatment at home options. They not only prevent from severe eczema but also help avoid frequent flares. Below are some preventive measures that can help;

• Try cold compress treatment at home about twice in a day. It helps ease itchiness, especially before sleep. Since it is a non-medication treatment approach, it can be used on sensitive skin areas, such as for how to get rid of eczema on penis.
• Know your possible triggers and avoid them. This includes things such as foods you are allergic to, fancy soaps, jewelry, cleaners, chemical agents, chlorinated water and such.
• Use mild soaps for bathing. After bathing, remember to apply moisturizers. Non-fragrance moisturizers are preferable to avoid irritation.
• Avoid taking more than 2 baths in a day. Damp and moist conditions encourage eczema. After bathing, ensure to rinse appropriately and dry.
• Wear fitting clothes, preferably made from cotton.
• Stress worsens eczema. Try measures that can take your mind off things that are troubling you.
• Humidifiers can really help during dry seasons.
• Sweat irritates eczema itch even more. Ensure to take a lukewarm bath after strenuous activities. Avoid hot baths, for they too will encourage eczema symptoms by washing away protective skin oils.

It is very advisable that a doctor be visited once eczema symptoms have been noticed. Early detection can help keep the condition from getting severe or infected. It is also easier to treat it when the symptoms are still mild.