Skin

Eczema (atopic dermatitis): virtual care options

Eczema is a long-lasting skin condition that makes skin dry, itchy, and easily inflamed. It often comes and goes in flare-ups, which can be set off by things like dry air, stress, sweat, or certain soaps and fabrics.

See virtual care for Eczema

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Common symptoms

What people often notice. Only a provider can tell you what’s causing yours.

Intense itching, often worse at night
Dry, rough, or scaly patches
Red or darker patches, often in skin folds like elbows and knees
Thickened skin from repeated scratching
Small bumps that may ooze or crust

What a virtual visit may involve

Care is decided by the provider, based on your situation.

A video or online visit where a licensed provider reviews your flare-ups and what seems to trigger them
Sharing photos of affected areas so the provider can see how widespread the flare is
A provider may recommend a skin care routine or prescribe treatment if appropriate
Follow-up planning if flares keep coming back

When in-person care may be better

Urgent care, your doctor, or a clinic can examine and test you.

An infant or young child has a widespread or worsening flare
Patches are cracked, weeping, or crusted and not healing
Eczema is near the eyes or affecting your vision
Flares have not improved with the care plan you were given

When to go to the ER

Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if you have:

Painful, rapidly spreading clusters of blisters or punched-out sores on eczema skin
Fever or feeling very unwell along with a sudden worsening of eczema
Spreading redness, warmth, and pain around a patch of eczema
Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, or trouble breathing

Ready to explore a virtual visit for Eczema?

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Common questions

Eczema, answered.

General information, not medical advice. A provider can answer questions about your situation.

Can eczema be treated through telehealth?

Often, yes. Eczema is usually recognized by how it looks and behaves, so photos and a conversation about your history can go a long way. A provider may suggest treatment if appropriate or refer you for an in-person exam.

Is eczema contagious?

No, eczema itself does not spread from person to person. However, skin broken by eczema can become infected, and those infections may need prompt care.

What makes eczema flare up?

Common triggers include dry or cold weather, hot showers, sweat, stress, harsh soaps, and scratchy fabrics. Triggers vary from person to person, and a provider can help you figure out yours.

This is not for emergencies.

For life-threatening symptoms, severe chest pain, trouble breathing, or immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.