Eczema treatment

Eczema is a common skin condition affecting both children and adults. Manage eczema with our Australian-registered online doctors via telehealth, available 24/7, available in just 15 minutes.

This guide does not replace professional care. In emergencies, call 000 or visit a hospital immediately.

About Eczema

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition that causes inflamed, itchy, red, and sometimes oozing patches on the skin. It’s often chronic, meaning it can persist over a long time, and tends to flare up periodically. It makes your skin susceptible to potential allergens. These allergens can trigger the release of certain chemicals in your skin, making it itch.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ammar AL-ANIMBChB, CCBST, AMC

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    When to consult a doctor for eczema?

    Eczema is a chronic skin condition that usually requires medical attention. A doctor can help in diagnosing your condition, understand the frequency of flare-ups, work with you on identifying your triggers and suggest the right treatment. Seek a doctor if:

    • More frequent: If your eczema flare-ups are occurring more frequently
    • Worsening symptoms: If your symptoms do not improve with medication
    • Infection: If there is increased redness, warmth, pus, or crusting
    • Disrupted daily life: If your sleep, work, or overall life gets disrupted.
    • Spreading: When eczema spreads to significant or complex parts of your body
    • Blistering or cracking skin: If your skin cracks, bleeds, or forms painful blisters.
    • Children with eczema: If your child has symptoms, especially at a young age, it’s important to consult a doctor immediately

    Please note: Eczema can be managed through home remedies or telehealth. For severe symptoms, dial 000 or visit the nearest hospital.

    Genetic and environmental factors for eczema

    Eczema could be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors such as:

    • Allergens: Dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and certain foods can trigger flare-ups.
    • Irritants: Soaps, detergents, shampoos, and some fabrics can irritate sensitive skin.
    • Climate: Dry air, heat, or sudden temperature changes can cause flare-ups.
    • Stress: Emotional stress can worsen eczema symptoms.
    • Sweating: Excessive sweating can irritate the skin and trigger flare-ups.
    • Family history of allergies

    Symptoms of eczema

    Eczema typically affects areas like the face, neck, hands, feet, and the inside of elbows and knees, but it can appear anywhere on the body. The extent of flare-ups and symptoms of eczema can vary from person to person. The symptoms can worsen due to triggers like allergens, stress, or climate changes. Some of the common symptoms include:

    • Itching which worsens at night
    • Red, inflamed skin
    • Dry, sensitive skin
    • Thickened skin
    • Small, raised bumps or blisters which may ooze fluid
    • Swelling
    • Cracks or scaling of skin in the affected areas

    Manage eczema via telehealth

    Telehealth gives you access to instant quality care regardless of your location. This is helpful for busy individuals, patients located in rural/remote areas and people with mobility issues. Simply select your appointment, add details & payment, and consult in 15 mins! Receive instant scripts, online referrals, or medical certificates online via SMS/email if approved. Here are some benefits of telehealth:

    • Flexibility: 24/7 availability of virtual doctor appointments ensures patients can get the care they need when they need it.
    • Reduced travel: Speak to an online doctor from the comfort of your home.
    • Other services: Get a medical certificate online, online referrals or instant scripts on the go
    • Privacy: Speak to a doctor without any stigma or fear and get the care you need.

    Can an online doctor help with eczema if the GP near me is not available?

    Yes, you can speak to an online doctor easily through telehealth appointments if the doctors nearby are unavailable. You can contact a licensed medical practitioner within 15 minutes regardless of whether you are in MelbournePerth, or in the remote regions in Australia. A doctor online can diagnose your condition, and issue instant scripts or online referrals if needed.

    How does online prescription work for eczema?

    After diagnosing your skin condition, a licensed medical practitioner may issue a script online for any medication warranted. This online script can be presented at a pharmacy anywhere in Australia or be uploaded to a pharmacy online to dispense the medication.

    Is eczema contagious?

    No, eczema is not contagious. It cannot spread from person to person or through contact.

    Can eczema be cured?

    There is no cure for eczema though it can be properly managed through treatments, medicine, and lifestyle adjustments.

    Can eczema go away on its own?

    Eczema typically does not go away on its own, especially in cases of chronic or recurring eczema. However, symptoms can improve over time, particularly with proper care and management. Some children may outgrow eczema as they get older, while others might continue to experience flare-ups throughout their lives.

    How can we help?

    We provide a fast and convenient way for you to see a doctor from the comfort of your own home, or on the go with your phone or any smart device. Using our secure telehealth platform, you can have a video call with a registered health practitioner or a doctor on-demand in 15 minutes or less. We’re open every day, 24 hours a day – including public holidays – because we know illness and injury can happen anytime, and need immediate medical attention.

    Much like an in-person GP clinic, our telehealth doctor will conduct a comprehensive assessment, including:

    • pre-existing conditions, family history and lifestyle.
    • preferred treatment options and how to access them.
    • individualised advice to manage your condition.
    • referrals or scripts for various conditions (if required) at the discretion of the doctor.

    Talk to a doctor today

    Telehealth helps you connect with an AHPRA-licensed online doctor within minutes. Hola Health provides 24/7 access to qualified medical practitioners in Australia within 15 minutes for:

    Access telehealth services