Foot Eczema

Foot Eczema or Neurodermatitis is an on-and-off skin condition characterized by by eczematous lesions ranging from vesicular and weeping lesion to dry,  scaly, thick  and darkened skin usually located at the top of the foot.  In any stage of the eczema there is an accompanying extreme itchiness which some considers scratching it as a pleasurable, even erotic,  activity. It’s name has been derived from “neuro”, meaning nerve because it has been observed to be aggravated be nervous tension or any stressful situation in a predisposed person.

The real cause is unknown but a simple skin irritation or insect bite can start it and vicious cycle of itch-scratching-skin thickening-itch can cause problematic eczema. Treatment consists of breaking the above cycle by taking antihistamine and applying steroid ointment on the lesion. Stressful situation must be avoided as flareups can be precipitated by such.