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Atopic eczema

Atopic eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a common skin condition that causes itchy skin. It affects people of all ages but is most common in young children. It cannot be cured, but treatment can help manage the symptoms.

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5.0 (5)
Doctor

Tomasz Grzelewski

Dermatology 21 years exp.

Dr Tomasz Grzelewski is an MD, PhD specialist in allergy, paediatrics, general practice and sports medicine, with a clinical focus on dermatology, endocrinology, allergology and sports-related health. He has more than 20 years of clinical experience and completed his medical training at the Medical University of Łódź, where he defended his PhD thesis with distinction. His doctoral research was recognised by the Polish Society of Allergology for its innovative contribution to the field. Throughout his career, he has gained extensive expertise in diagnosing and managing a wide range of allergic and paediatric conditions, including modern allergen desensitisation techniques. For five years, Dr Grzelewski served as the Head of two paediatric departments in Poland, managing complex clinical cases and leading multidisciplinary teams. He also worked in medical centres in the United Kingdom, gaining experience across both primary care and specialist environments. With over a decade of telemedicine experience, he has provided online consultations across Europe and is valued for his clear, structured and evidence-based medical guidance. Dr Grzelewski is actively involved in clinical programmes focused on modern anti-allergic therapies. As a Principal Investigator, he leads research projects on sublingual and oral allergen desensitisation, supporting evidence-based progress in allergy treatment for both children and adults. In addition to his background in allergology and paediatrics, he completed dermatology studies through the Cambridge Education Group (Royal College of Physicians of Ireland) and a Clinical Endocrinology course at Harvard Medical School. This advanced training enhances his ability to manage skin manifestations of allergies, atopic conditions, urticaria, endocrine-related symptoms and complex immunological reactions. Patients commonly seek his care for: 

  • seasonal and perennial allergies
  • allergic rhinitis and chronic nasal symptoms
  • asthma and breathing difficulties
  • food and medication allergies
  • urticaria, atopic dermatitis and skin reactions
  • recurrent infections in children
  • sports-related health questions
  • general family medicine concerns

Dr Tomasz Grzelewski is known for his clear communication style, structured medical approach and ability to explain treatment options in a concise and accessible way. His multidisciplinary background across allergy, paediatrics, dermatology and endocrinology allows him to provide safe, up-to-date and comprehensive care for patients of all ages.

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€80
This page provides general information and does not replace a doctor’s consultation. If symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening, seek medical advice promptly.

Atopic eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a common skin condition that causes itchy skin. It affects people of all ages but is most common in young children. It cannot be cured, but treatment can help manage the symptoms.

Check if it's atopic eczema

Atopic eczema can appear in different areas of the body, but it's common on the elbows, knees and hands. In babies and toddlers, it's also common on the face.

Atopic eczema can make your skin:

  • itchy
  • dry, cracked, crusty, scaly or thickened
  • red, white, purple or grey, or lighter or darker than the skin around it (depending on your skin tone)
  • blister or bleed

Symptoms can start at any age, but they usually start in babies and young children and tend to get better as they get older.

There are usually times where your symptoms get worse (called flare-ups) and times where they are better.

  • 1: Dark brown skin with atopic eczema on the back of the knees (thumbnail). 1
  • 2: White skin with atopic eczema on an ankle (thumbnail). 2
  • 3: Light brown skin with atopic eczema on hands (thumbnail). 3
  • 4: White skin with atopic eczema on a baby's face (thumbnail). 4
  • 5: Dark brown skin with atopic eczema on the inside of an elbow (thumbnail). 5
  • 6: Light brown skin with atopic eczema on and around a knee (thumbnail). 6

Other types of eczema

There are also other types of eczema, including contact dermatitis, discoid eczema, pompholyx (dyshidrotic eczema) and varicose eczema.

See a GP if:

  • you or your child have symptoms of atopic eczema
  • treatments are not helping your atopic eczema

Causes of atopic eczema

It's not always known what causes atopic eczema.

You're more likely to have it if:

  • one or both of your parents have atopic eczema
  • you or a close family member has asthma or hay fever

Atopic eczema can be made worse by things like:

  • coming into contact with an allergen or irritant such as soap, washing detergent, pets, some fabrics, pollen, house-dust mites or certain foods
  • heat or changes in temperature
  • skin infections, such as a staph infection
  • stress
  • hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy

Atopic eczema is not contagious so you cannot catch or spread it.

Things you can do to help with atopic eczema

There are some things you can do that can help with atopic eczema.

Consult with a doctor about Atopic eczema

Consult with a doctor about Atopic eczema

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps with a doctor online.

Do

  • avoid things that make your eczema worse such as soap, washing detergent, some fabrics or pets

  • apply moisturising treatments (emollients) to your skin as often as possible (at least 2 times a day) – continue to moisturise even if your eczema improves

  • wash with an emollient instead of soap

  • keep cool – being hot can make your eczema more itchy

  • keep nails short and put anti-scratch mittens on babies to help prevent damage to the skin from scratching

Don’t

  • do not scratch your eczema, as it can make it worse – if your eczema is itchy, try gently rubbing the affected area with your finger instead

  • do not share your emollients with anyone else

  • do not put your fingers into an emollient pot – use a spoon or pump dispenser instead

  • do not use aqueous cream as it can irritate the skin and make eczema worse

  • do not change your diet unless you are told to by a doctor (this includes if you are breastfeeding a baby with eczema)

  • do not smoke or go near naked flames if you use an emollient – emollients are not flammable on the skin, but when they get on fabrics such as dressings, clothing and bedding they can catch fire more easily

A pharmacist can help with mild atopic eczema

A pharmacist can give advice and recommend some treatments if you have small areas of eczema that are dry and slightly itchy.

If your eczema is more severe, it's best to see a GP.

Treatment for atopic eczema

There's currently no cure for atopic eczema, although the symptoms tend to get better as you get older.

There are treatments that can help manage it and improve your symptoms.

The main treatments are:

  • moisturising creams, lotions, ointments and gels you apply to your skin and wash with (emollients)
  • steroid creams, lotions or gels you apply to your skin (topical corticosteroids)

If your eczema is more severe, there are other treatments such as special dressings or medicines.

A GP can prescribe some treatments, or you may be referred to a skin specialist (dermatologist).

Living with atopic eczema can be difficult. If it affects your mental health, you may be referred to a mental health specialist.

Online doctors for Atopic eczema

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps for Atopic eczema with a doctor online.

0.0 (0)
Doctor

Bulat Garipov

General medicine 15 years exp.

Dr. Bulat Garipov is a radiologist with more than 15 years of experience, specializing in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Throughout his professional career, he has worked in leading diagnostic imaging centers, both in on-site practice and teleradiology, which has allowed him to develop a broad and versatile approach to radiology.

Over the years, he has gained solid experience in interpreting MRI studies in various areas, including:

  •  Neuroimaging
  •  Musculoskeletal system (MSK)
  •  Angiography
  •  Abdomen and pelvis
  •  Soft tissues

Additionally, Dr. Garipov is open to new collaboration opportunities in radiology and teleradiology projects. He offers his expertise in MRI, providing both first and second readings of studies, as well as advanced image interpretation, ensuring accurate and high-quality diagnostics.

You could consult Dr. Bulat Garipov in cases where accurate interpretation of MRI studies or a second expert opinion is required. His expertise is especially valuable in cases of suspected neurological conditions, back and joint pain, vascular disorders, as well as in the diagnosis of abdominal and pelvic diseases. The doctor also provides support in complex or unclear clinical situations, including the review of previously performed studies, which helps improve diagnostic accuracy and determine the optimal treatment strategy. A teleradiology format is available, allowing you to receive a professional opinion remotely.

5.0 (2)
Doctor

Alexander Nazarchuk

Allergology 7 years exp.

Dr. Alexander Nazarchuk is a physician specialising in allergology and internal medicine. He provides online consultations for adults, following the principles of evidence-based medicine — no outdated treatments or unnecessary tests, with clear explanations and a personalised approach. He helps patients with a wide range of allergic and therapeutic conditions, from common day-to-day complaints to complex cases involving allergies, gastrointestinal issues, cardiovascular concerns, respiratory symptoms, and more.

You can consult Dr. Nazarchuk for:

  • Test interpretation and guidance on diagnostic plans.
  • Allergic rhinitis, hay fever, bronchial asthma (including severe cases).
  • Food and drug allergies, skin rashes, angioedema.
  • Atopic dermatitis, urticaria, contact allergies.
  • Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) – initiation and ongoing management.
  • Abdominal pain, bloating, changes in bowel habits, nausea, heartburn.
  • High blood pressure and adjustment of baseline antihypertensive therapy.
  • Hyperlipidaemia and elevated cholesterol.
  • Cough, nasal congestion, fever, sore throat.
  • Anaemia, including iron deficiency and related conditions.
  • Other issues related to allergology and internal medicine.

During consultations, Dr. Nazarchuk takes a thorough, structured approach — analysing symptoms, identifying potential causes, and helping patients make informed decisions. Whether treatment, further investigation, or monitoring is needed, he explains each step clearly so you understand your health and how best to manage it.

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€55
5.0 (5)
Doctor

Tomasz Grzelewski

Dermatology 21 years exp.

Dr Tomasz Grzelewski is an MD, PhD specialist in allergy, paediatrics, general practice and sports medicine, with a clinical focus on dermatology, endocrinology, allergology and sports-related health. He has more than 20 years of clinical experience and completed his medical training at the Medical University of Łódź, where he defended his PhD thesis with distinction. His doctoral research was recognised by the Polish Society of Allergology for its innovative contribution to the field. Throughout his career, he has gained extensive expertise in diagnosing and managing a wide range of allergic and paediatric conditions, including modern allergen desensitisation techniques. For five years, Dr Grzelewski served as the Head of two paediatric departments in Poland, managing complex clinical cases and leading multidisciplinary teams. He also worked in medical centres in the United Kingdom, gaining experience across both primary care and specialist environments. With over a decade of telemedicine experience, he has provided online consultations across Europe and is valued for his clear, structured and evidence-based medical guidance. Dr Grzelewski is actively involved in clinical programmes focused on modern anti-allergic therapies. As a Principal Investigator, he leads research projects on sublingual and oral allergen desensitisation, supporting evidence-based progress in allergy treatment for both children and adults. In addition to his background in allergology and paediatrics, he completed dermatology studies through the Cambridge Education Group (Royal College of Physicians of Ireland) and a Clinical Endocrinology course at Harvard Medical School. This advanced training enhances his ability to manage skin manifestations of allergies, atopic conditions, urticaria, endocrine-related symptoms and complex immunological reactions. Patients commonly seek his care for: 

  • seasonal and perennial allergies
  • allergic rhinitis and chronic nasal symptoms
  • asthma and breathing difficulties
  • food and medication allergies
  • urticaria, atopic dermatitis and skin reactions
  • recurrent infections in children
  • sports-related health questions
  • general family medicine concerns

Dr Tomasz Grzelewski is known for his clear communication style, structured medical approach and ability to explain treatment options in a concise and accessible way. His multidisciplinary background across allergy, paediatrics, dermatology and endocrinology allows him to provide safe, up-to-date and comprehensive care for patients of all ages.

Camera Book a video appointment
€80
0.0 (0)
Doctor

Marta Reguero Capilla

Allergology 8 years exp.

Dr Marta Reguero Capilla is an allergist and immunologist who works with both adults and children. She specialises in the diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of allergic and immune-related conditions through online consultations. In her practice, Dr Reguero Capilla helps patients understand the causes of their symptoms, review test results, and choose appropriate treatment or monitoring strategies. Her consultations are suitable both for first-time assessments and for follow-up care over time. Patients commonly consult Dr Marta Reguero Capilla for: 

  • allergic rhinitis, seasonal allergies, and perennial allergy symptoms;
  • allergic conditions in adults and children;
  • bronchial asthma and allergy-related respiratory symptoms;
  • urticaria (acute and chronic) and angioedema;
  • food allergies and reactions to foods, additives, or medications;
  • atopic dermatitis, allergic rashes, and persistent itching;
  • unexplained or recurrent allergic reactions;
  • interpretation of laboratory tests, allergy testing, and immunology results;
  • immune system concerns, frequent infections, and reduced immune response;
  • ongoing medical follow-up and treatment adjustment.

Dr Reguero Capilla works in a structured and attentive manner, explaining medical decisions clearly and helping patients make informed choices about their own health or their child’s care. When clinically appropriate, she may provide recommendations for further tests or referrals that patients can use within Spanish medical networks, including Sanitas and DKV, in accordance with the terms and conditions of those services.

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€60
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