Red flags & when to go in person for Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Audience: adult

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. Many people manage eczema at home with moisturizers and avoiding triggers. Telemedicine can help with education, monitoring symptoms, and adjusting treatments. However, some signs mean you should see a healthcare provider in person. These include severe skin infections, widespread rash, intense pain, or if eczema is not improving with usual care. Knowing when to seek in-person care helps prevent complications and ensures proper treatment. This guide explains red flags, what telemedicine can and cannot do, and how to prepare for and follow up after a telemedicine visit.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Signs of skin infection such as increased redness, warmth, swelling, pus, or pain — seek in-person care promptly.
• Severe or widespread rash covering large areas of the body — arrange for physical examination.
• Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, or other signs of allergic reaction — seek emergency in-person care immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Providing education about eczema and skin care.
• Reviewing symptoms and treatment adherence.
• Adjusting medications for mild to moderate flare-ups.
• Offering guidance on avoiding triggers and moisturizing routines.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Diagnosing or treating severe skin infections.
• Performing physical skin examinations or tests.
• Managing emergency allergic reactions or severe symptoms.
• Prescribing treatments that require in-person assessment.

What is Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)?

Eczema is a skin condition that causes redness, itching, and dryness. It often appears on the hands, face, and behind the knees. Eczema can flare up due to irritants, allergens, stress, or weather changes. It is not contagious and can affect adults and children alike.

Common Symptoms and Management

Typical symptoms include itchy, dry, cracked, or scaly skin. Mild eczema can often be managed with regular moisturizing, avoiding known triggers, and using over-the-counter creams. Prescription treatments may be needed for more severe cases.

When to Seek In-Person Care: Red Flags

Certain signs mean you should see a healthcare provider in person:

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine can provide education about eczema, review your symptoms, suggest skin care routines, and help adjust treatments. It is useful for routine follow-ups and mild to moderate flare-ups.

Limitations of Telemedicine for Eczema

Telemedicine cannot replace physical exams needed to assess infections or severe skin changes. It cannot provide emergency care or perform skin tests. If you have red flags, an in-person visit is important.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your visit, prepare by:

After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow the care plan given by your provider. Use prescribed treatments as directed. Monitor your skin and report any worsening or new symptoms promptly. Schedule follow-up visits as recommended.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List your current symptoms and when they started.
• Gather a list of all skin care products and medications you use.
• Find a well-lit area to show your skin during the video call.
• Prepare to describe your daily skin care routine and any known triggers.
• Have a family member or friend available if you need help during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan and skin care advice provided.
• Monitor your skin daily for any changes or worsening.
• Avoid known eczema triggers as recommended.
• Schedule follow-up appointments as advised.
• Seek in-person care if red flag symptoms develop or worsen.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose eczema?

Telemedicine can help review symptoms and provide guidance but cannot replace a physical exam needed for a definitive diagnosis. If your condition is unclear, an in-person visit may be necessary.

What should I do if my eczema suddenly worsens?

If your eczema worsens with signs of infection, severe rash, or intense pain, seek in-person medical care promptly. Telemedicine can assist with mild flare-ups but not emergencies.

How can I manage itching between visits?

Use moisturizers regularly, avoid scratching, and apply any prescribed topical treatments. Keeping nails short and wearing soft clothing may help reduce irritation.

Are there any triggers I should avoid?

Common triggers include harsh soaps, detergents, allergens, stress, and extreme temperatures. Identifying and avoiding your personal triggers can help manage eczema.

When should I seek emergency care?

Seek emergency care if you experience difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or severe allergic reactions. These require immediate medical attention.

Sources

1. Atopic Dermatitis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Atopic Dermatitis — Mayo Clinic.
4. Atopic Dermatitis: Clinical Features and Diagnosis — National Library of Medicine, U.S. National Institutes of Health.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you experience any red flag symptoms or have concerns about your eczema, please seek evaluation from a healthcare provider in person.