Discoid eczema, also known as nummular eczema, is a chronic skin condition that causes round or oval patches of scaly, itchy, and inflamed skin. Treatment for discoid eczema is aimed at:
- Restoring fluid to your skin (called rehydration).
- Treating the skin inflammation.
- Treating any infection that may be present.
- Reducing itching.
Treatment options for discoid eczema include:
- Topical corticosteroids: These are creams or ointments that reduce skin inflammation and itching. Once discoid eczema has developed, the skin can become itchy and red or darker than your usual skin colour, depending on skin tone. If this happens, your doctor may prescribe a steroid with a cream or ointment base to apply to the affected areas to help them clear up. The potency (strength) of the steroid used will depend on the severity of the eczema.
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors: These creams or ointments suppress the immune response that causes eczema.
- Phototherapy: This involves exposing the skin to controlled amounts of ultraviolet light to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms. Phototherapy several times weekly for 6–12 weeks for generalised or widespread discoid eczema can reduce itch and improve the rash.
- Oral medications: In severe cases, oral antihistamines or antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce itching and manage skin infections. Complete the prescribed course, even if the infection clears up before all the tablets are taken.
- Skin rehydration treatment: This is done by using emollients. Emollients are often called moisturisers. They are lotions, creams, ointments and bath/shower additives which oil your skin to keep it supple and moist. Emollients should be used as soap substitutes when you are washing, as regular soap tends to dry out your skin. Bath or shower twice a day in cool water, followed by application of an emollient. Using a fragrance-free moisturizer regularly can help to keep the skin hydrated and reduce itching and dryness.
- Treatment to reduce itching: Antihistamine tablets may help to reduce itching and may be particularly useful at night when trying to sleep. However, some antihistamines can make you feel drowsy (even the next day). So, you should not drive and you should not operate machinery if they affect you in this way.
- Avoiding triggers: Identifying and avoiding things that trigger symptoms, such as certain soaps, detergents, or clothing materials, can help to prevent flare-ups.
It is important to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and to determine the best course of treatment for an individual case of discoid eczema.