How to Treat Eczema
Atopic dermatitis, also known as Eczema is a chronic condition characterized by itchy skin inflammation. This condition usually occur during childhood and may continue until adulthood. Here are some things you should know to treat Eczema.
Symptoms
Symptoms usually appear before a child turns 5 years old.
Red or brown patches on the skin
Itchiness
Small fluid-filled bumps
Scaly skin
Treatment
Phototherapy is a kind of treatment that exposes the skin to either natural sunlight or artificial ultraviolet light. UV A or UV B may be used for artifical light therapy.
Medications
Corticosteroids are used to lessen inflammation, relieve itching and reduce scaling. You can take over the counter corticosteroid creams and apply it on your skin when you need to. Oral forms of corticosteroids may also be prescribed by your doctor. Be careful when using this kind of medicine as it has serious side effects, especially when used for long periods. Some side effects of this drug are cataracts, osteoporosis and suppressed immune system.
Antibiotics may be given to fight off bacteria or prevent bacterial growth.
Antihistamines help get rid of itching. Use Diphenhydramine with caution. One of its side effects is drowsiness. Avoid driving when taking this medication.
Home Care
Know the things that worsen inflammation and avoid these triggers. Have a list of factors that easily irritates your skin. Make sure to avoid these factors as much as you can.
Apply creams or ointments on affected areas to reduce itchiness and swelling. There are a lot of over the counter creams, but it’s still safe to consult your doctor before buying any of these creams.
So soothe your raw skin, place a cool and wet compress on the affected area.
Have special baths. Put some baking soda or uncooked oatmeal in your bath water. This would help relieve itchiness.
Avoid using bath soaps with dyes and perfumes to avoid irritating your skin.
Use skin moisturizers to prevent scaling from getting worse. Applying a baby oil while your skin is still damp will effectively lock the moisture in.
Avoid rubbing or scratching your skin. When drying off after a bath, don’t rub the towel on your skin. Pat your skin with a soft towel.
Wear soft clothing. Rough and hard clothing will further irritate your skin.
Tips:
These are some of the common factors that worsen inflammation and itchiness:
Sweating
Stress
Changing Temperatures
Soaps and detergents
Wool
Dust
Certain foods like eggs and fish
Red to brown patches usually appear on these areas :
Hands and Feet
Wrists
Face
Neck
Upper chest
Eczema is a chronic disease. Proper understanding of the condition and management is very important to avoid complications.