Whether you’ve just been diagnosed or you are dealing with symptoms that seem like eczema, learn more about this common skin condition.

It’s estimated that over 31 million Americans suffer from symptoms of eczema, and at least 17 million of those are dealing with moderate to severe forms. This dermatological problem may have you stumped, but our Encinitas, CA dermatologists, Dr. David Thomas and Dr. Margaret Hobson Dupree, know how to address your skin issues. Learn more about eczema and find out if your symptoms could be trying to tell you something.

Q. What is eczema?

A. This group of skin conditions is brought about by inflammation. Flare-ups happen in cycles, where some times you may be asymptomatic and then other times your skin will develop rough patches that are dry and itchy.

Q. What causes this condition?

A. While it’s not exactly known what causes eczema, it is believed to be the result of a variety of different factors such as:

• Genetics
• Environmental triggers
• Immune system dysfunction
• Skin barrier defects

Q. What are the symptoms?

A. If you have eczema, you will notice rough patches of skin that may be inflamed or even cause blisters that itch and bleed. These patches may become scaly or leathery. They may also crust over or ooze. You may notice that there are certain things that bring about these flare-ups (e.g. irritants or environmental factors) or you may not be able to pinpoint a cause.

Q. Is there a cure?

A. While there is no cure for eczema, there are ways that your dermatologist in Encinitas can help you manage your symptoms. By figuring out your triggers we can help you avoid them and reduce your flare-ups. There are also some skincare products that can help ease itching and other symptoms.

If you are dealing with any of the symptoms above then it’s time you turned to North County Dermatology Center in Encinitas, CA to learn more about eczema treatments.

One question many people in Encinitas, CA, ask is, “should I get my mole checked out.”

You probably spend a good deal of time outdoors. That’s great, but don’t be surprised by the occasional skin blemish.

Anytime you have a question or concern regarding a mole or any other skin issue, you should contact your Encinitas, CA dermatologists at North County Dermatology Center, PC.

Generally, moles are normal and harmless. The average person will have between ten and forty common moles on their body, usually located above the waist. Most moles are not dangerous, although they may be annoying. Common moles are generally smaller than 5 millimeters wide, round or oval shaped, with smooth surface and distinct edges. They are usually brown, tan or pink. While a common mole can turn cancerous, that is uncommon. It is uncommon to develop new moles later in life.

Sometimes people see a mole that may be slightly larger than a common mole and may have a different color, surface or border. These are known as dysplastic nevi and they are usually not dangerous; it is rare for a dysplastic nevus to turn cancerous.

Neither common moles nor dysplastic nevi need to be removed unless you just want them gone.

If a mole takes on an unusual or unnatural look, it is time to contact your Encinitas dermatologist. In fact, the National Cancer Institute suggests the “ABCDE” rule as a method for checking out unusual moles or other skin growths.

• Asymmetric – The shape of one half of the mole does not match the other half
• Border – Regularly defined borders are normal. Irregular, ragged, notched borders should probably be checked out.
• Color – if the color is uneven, you might want to check it out.
• Diameter – If it changes size, especially if it gets larger, check it out.
• Evolving – If it has changed over the past few weeks or months, check it out.

If you have a question or concern about a mole or other skin issue, consider contacting North County Dermatology Center, PC in Encinitas, CA. For more information call (760) 230-2805.