Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): symptoms, causes & treatment in Nigeria
Also known as craw-craw (itchy skin), atopic dermatitis.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
Eczema is a long-term skin condition causing dry, intensely itchy, inflamed patches that flare and settle in cycles. It often starts in childhood and runs in families alongside asthma and allergies. It is not contagious, and consistent moisturising plus trigger control keeps most cases comfortable.
Symptoms
Dry, itchy patches of skin
Redness or darkening of affected areas
Thickened, rough skin from scratching
Small bumps that may leak fluid when scratched
Itching worse at night
Common in skin folds — elbows, knees, neck
Causes & risk factors
Inherited tendency to sensitive, dry skin
Triggers: heat, sweat, harsh soaps, certain fabrics
Dust, harmattan dryness and sudden weather changes
Stress worsening flares
Treatment & self-care
Moisturise generously and often — especially after bathing — use gentle, fragrance-free soaps, keep baths short and lukewarm, and wear soft cotton. Doctors prescribe anti-inflammatory creams for flares and treat any infection from scratching. Avoid bleaching creams and unproven mixtures, which damage the skin barrier and worsen eczema.
Flares spreading or not responding to prescribed creams
Eczema with fever or rapidly worsening rash
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)?
Early signs often include dry, itchy patches of skin, redness or darkening of affected areas, thickened, rough skin from scratching. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) be treated?
Moisturise generously and often — especially after bathing — use gentle, fragrance-free soaps, keep baths short and lukewarm, and wear soft cotton. Doctors prescribe anti-inflammatory creams for flares and treat any infection from scratching. Avoid bleaching creams and unproven mixtures, which damage the skin barrier and worsen eczema.
When should I see a doctor about Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: skin weeping, crusting or showing pus (infection); itching disturbing sleep despite regular moisturising; flares spreading or not responding to prescribed creams; eczema with fever or rapidly worsening rash.