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Eczema: questions to ask your doctor

Last published:Jan 30, 2023

If you or your child has been diagnosed with eczema you may want to talk to your doctor to find out more.

Here are some questions that you might want to ask.

  • Why do I have eczema?

  • Is eczema the same thing as dermatitis?

  • Does it need to be treated?

  • If so, what is the best treatment?

  • Does the treatment have side effects?

  • How long will the treatment last?

  • Will my symptoms come back if I stop the treatment?

  • Has something in particular caused this eczema?

  • Will the eczema go away or will I always have it?

  • What should I do if the symptoms come back?

  • Are there any special risks I need to be aware of?

  • Are there things I can do at home to try to relieve the eczema?

  • Are there things I shouldn't do? For example, is it all right to go swimming?

The patient information from BMJ Best Practice is regularly updated. The most recent version of Best Practice can be found at bestpractice.bmj.com. This information is intended for use by health professionals. It is not a substitute for medical advice. It is strongly recommended that you independently verify any interpretation of this material and, if you have a medical problem, see your doctor.

Please see BMJ's full terms of use at: bmj.com/company/legal-information. BMJ does not make any representations, conditions, warranties or guarantees, whether express or implied, that this material is accurate, complete, up-to-date or fit for any particular purposes.

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