How to Identify and Treat Eczema on the Legs

Eczema, or dermatitis, is a group of inflammatory skin disorders that cause dry, inflamed, and intensely itchy skin. There are several types of eczema. The symptoms associated with eczema can develop on various body areas, including the legs.

This article discusses how to identify and treat eczema on the legs.

Symptoms of Eczema on the Legs

When eczema develops on the legs, the main symptoms can include:

• Intense itch
• Redness
• Dry skin

A specific type of eczema that occurs on the lower legs, varicose eczema, can present with the typical symptoms of the condition as well as others, including:

• Swelling
• Flaky, scaly, or crusty skin
• Discoloration (lighter skin will be red or brown, darker skin will be dark brown, purple, or gray)
• Tenderness and tight skin
• Pain
• Leg ulcers, if left untreated

Causes of Eczema on the Legs

The cause of eczema isn't well understood. Some research suggests that there is a genetic component, and it's also thought that dysfunction in how the immune system works plays a role. Your environment may contribute to eczema development and flare-ups as well. Flare-ups are periods when the symptoms are worse.

In the specific case of varicose eczema, the condition and its symptoms arise because of increased pressure in the leg veins. Veins have valves to help with blood flow; if they stop working, the blood does not flow in the proper direction.

When that happens, blood can flow backward into the veins and cause pressure to build up. This pressure can lead to blood leaking into the tissues surrounding the veins.

Eczema Treatment

There are many treatment options available for leg eczema. Because there is no cure for the condition, treatments revolve around reducing flare-ups and managing the condition as well as possible to avoid unwanted and sometimes debilitating symptoms. Treatment options can include:

• Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
• Calcineurin inhibitors, which work to suppress the action of the immune system to prevent symptoms
• Phototherapy, or light therapy, casts UV light on the area to stop skins cells that belong to the immune system from causing inflammation there
• Oral medications for more severe cases, such as oral corticosteroids and immunosuppressants

Treatments for varicose eczema are similar. However, there are more options for this specific type, such as:

• Improving circulation through lifestyle changes such as raising the legs frequently and getting more exercise
• Wearing compression stockings every day to improve circulation
• Using emollients, which are moisturizers designed to soften dry and rough skin

Eczema Prevention

You can’t prevent eczema from developing. That said, you can avoid flare-ups. Eczema can often come and go, so even though a person with eczema has it for life, they may have symptom-free periods.

To try to extend the length of time between flare-ups, you can:

• Use your medication as prescribed even if you feel as though you can manage without it.
• Moisturize the area properly with eczema-approved lotions.
• Identify and avoid any triggers.
• Eat anti-inflammatory foods.
• Engage in stress-reducing activities regularly.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

Anyone experiencing eczema should consult a dermatologist if they have not yet been diagnosed. Because the symptoms can worsen if you don’t manage them effectively, leaving your leg eczema alone will only do you a disservice. Your healthcare provider will examine the leg eczema and provide treatment options to help quell symptoms and ensure you know what you need to do to avoid flare-ups.

When you have seen a medical provider and know that you have leg eczema, you won’t need to contact them unless something about your condition has changed or your treatment plan isn’t working.

In the case of varicose eczema, seeing your medical provider is more important because the condition could indicate a blood flow problem. You may have to see a specialist for varicose eczema because of the issues with the blood vessels and blood flow in the legs.

Summary

Eczema is not one condition but an umbrella term for several, many of which can develop on the legs. When the skin disorder does occur, it leads to intense itchiness, dryness, and flaky skin on the legs. Though the cause isn't well understood, genetics and environment play a role in the development of eczema and how often flare-ups occur. One specific type that affects the legs, known as varicose eczema, results from inadequate blood flow and circulation in the legs.

Treatment options for eczema include medicinal creams or ointments, phototherapy, or drugs that suppress the action of the immune system. Varicose eczema may require more extensive treatment to remedy a person's issues with blood circulation.

If you notice any symptoms of leg eczema, you should contact your medical provider for an appointment. A proper diagnosis will lead to appropriate disease management and fewer uncomfortable flare-ups.

A Word From Verywell

Leg eczema can be so intensely itchy and dry that it makes day-to-day living difficult. That said, many therapy options available to you can treat your eczema and reduce flare-ups so that you don’t have to deal with the symptoms daily.

When you find a treatment that works for you, you can keep your legs safe from the unwanted symptoms of leg eczema between flare-ups. Flare-ups will occur, but you can also reduce their frequency. As long as you follow your medical provider’s instructions for eczema care, you can cope with the condition.