Cahaya Umairah Airidz, an 8-year-old girl with a radiant smile and a bright yellow skirt, is the epitome of vitality. But just over a year ago, her life was vastly different. A severe eczema condition left her in constant discomfort, impacting her confidence and daily life. School, play, and even simple activities like enjoying the sun were difficult for her, as her eczema often flared up, making her skin sore and irritated.
Diagnosed with eczema at the age of 4, Cahaya’s condition severely disrupted her routines. Sleep and school attendance were both impacted, as she would often scratch her skin, even in her sleep, causing painful bleeding. “In a week, she could only manage to attend school for one or two days. It was heartbreaking to watch her in so much discomfort,” recalls her mother, Azidah Khanib.
However, since starting biologic therapy—an advanced treatment targeting the immune system—Cahaya’s condition has improved significantly. The injections, which she receives monthly, along with a tailored skincare routine, have helped her regain control over her life. Cahaya now participates in sports at school and enjoys activities she once had to miss out on. Despite these improvements, she still has to avoid sweets, as they are known to trigger her eczema.
Cahaya is not alone in her battle with eczema. Mirzan Shafeeq Mohammad Shazli, a 19-year-old university student, has been managing the condition since childhood. Like Cahaya, Mirzan stays vigilant about avoiding scented skincare products and keeping his skin moisturized at all times. He also takes regular medication to manage flare-ups. His eczema once led to a severe episode at age 12, and another flare-up during a trip last year resulted in hospitalization due to widespread lesions on his legs.
Having grown up with eczema, Mirzan has learned how to manage the condition and its triggers. “Stress and extreme temperatures are my main triggers,” he explains. His family, especially his mother, who has a history of eczema, helped him understand how to cope. Despite the challenges, Mirzan feels supported by his friends, who treat him no differently due to his condition.
Understanding Eczema
Eczema is a broad term that encompasses various skin conditions, but the most common type is atopic eczema. Dr. Moonyza Akmal Ahmad Kamil, a consultant dermatologist at Kuala Lumpur Hospital, explains that the condition has a multifactorial cause. “Sweaty environments or stress can trigger flare-ups,” she says. Commonly affected areas include the folds of skin, such as the back of the neck or behind the knees.
While Malaysia currently lacks a national eczema registry, Dr. Moonyza notes that at her hospital, approximately 25% of dermatology referrals are related to eczema. If left untreated or poorly managed, eczema can severely impact a person’s quality of life, interfering with daily activities and emotional well-being.
Eczema is often linked to genetics, but not exclusively. “A child with a family history of atopic diseases like asthma or allergic rhinitis has a higher risk of developing eczema,” Dr. Moonyza explains. However, some individuals develop eczema even without a family history. Environmental factors, such as exposure to dust, sweat, or chemicals in personal care products, also play a significant role in triggering the condition.
Managing Eczema: Treatment and Prevention
Dr. Moonyza emphasizes that the first step in managing eczema is avoiding known triggers. “Identifying and avoiding triggers is key,” she advises. Keeping the skin moisturized is equally important, as eczema-prone skin struggles to retain moisture. A proper bathing routine is essential: patients should shower twice a day using products with a neutral pH level, neither too acidic nor too alkaline, and moisturize while the skin is still damp.
For some patients, conventional treatments may suffice, while others may require newer therapies, such as injectable biologics. In cases of severe eczema that doesn’t respond to topical treatments, phototherapy—exposure to ultraviolet light—may be recommended. Dr. Moonyza explains that patients undergoing phototherapy may require between 20-30 sessions, depending on individual needs.
Treatment for eczema must be personalized, as different medications and approaches work for different people. “A complete cure is difficult, but with advancements in treatment, we’re seeing fewer hospital admissions and more patients experiencing remission,” says Dr. Moonyza. The goal is to manage the condition effectively, reduce flare-ups, and help patients lead fulfilling lives despite the challenges eczema presents.
Through continued research and improved therapies, the future looks brighter for individuals like Cahaya and Mirzan, who have learned to navigate the difficulties of eczema and are taking steps toward better managing their condition.
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