adult onset eczema - Skin Problems Message Board

willy8512 · 03-09-2008, 06:34 PM

Is their anybody here that developed eczema as an adult over forty?
Was it chronic or did it come and go with the seasons or other causes?
How long did it last or did it ever go into remission?

The vast majority of people with eczema are children under five. I can't find any information on eczema as it relates to adults. I know everyone is different but I would think that dermatologists would compile some statistics.

I would guess that my current symptoms are mild but chronic. The skin turns light red and doesn't itch but is very sensitive to friction.
No amount of moisturizers has made any difference. The skin doesn't seem to be dry or need any moisturizers. I now have a pharmacy full of products and nothing soaks in.
This skin problem is having a bigger emotional impact than physical. I was running five miles every other day and very healthy. Now I feel as if my number is up.

kkl · 03-09-2008, 10:58 PM

Oh yeah..I've got it and I'm over 40. It's concentrated on one finger and the back side of my right hand. It hasn't completely gone away yet, and I've been dealing with it since last August. I finally caved in and saw a dermatologist after 2 months. Saw my gp first and she was no help so I asked for a referral to the dermatologist. They gave me a prescription for a very strong topical steroid. I was told not to use it unless the eczema was really bothering me. After one application, the rash on my finger was almost gone. On the other hand, the rash on my right hand is very stubborn. It will not go away, although on some days it is less itchy. Also, I haven't been very good about applying the steroid cream every day.