What Are the Treatments for Eczema Around the Eyes?
Eczema is a skin condition also known as atopic dermititis. It often appears as dry, red patches and can be very itchy and irritating. Generally, eczema is known to occur around the body's joints, like the elbows and knees, but it can often show up in unusual places like around the eye. This sensitive area can be difficult to treat.
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Diagnosing
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If you or your family have a history of allergies, it is likely that you are susceptible to eczema. When eczema is present around the eye, red, scaly patches can appear on the lid, or around or under the eye. Swelling may also occur and can be very uncomfortable. Keep a log or diary as to when flareups occur. Do they happen in conjunction with other allergies? Does they get worse during certain types of weather or if you wear certain makeup? Taking note of what triggers the inflammation and how long it lasts will have a great impact on how you and your doctor decide to treat it.
Prevention
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Preventing flareups is key with eczema. One of the most important things to remember is to moisturize. Doctors suggest moisturizing two to three times a day at the onset of inflammation. Aquaphor is highly recommended, as it locks in moisture and creates a barrier between you and irritants. It can also be worn under makeup. Be careful not to get it too close to the eye itself. If weather is a trigger for you, wear sunglasses even on cloudy days.
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Boosting Your Immunity
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Because eczema is considered an autoimmune disease, boosting your immunity is key to limiting flareups. Stay healthy by taking a multivitamin everyday, drinking lots of water and exercising. Supplementing your multivitamin with quercetin, omega 3 and a B complex is important, as they are all known for their anti-inflammatory healing powers. They are not only helpful with eczema, but with allergies too.
Treatments
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If all-natural methods have failed, your doctor or dermatologist will likely prescribe a cream. Though cortisone works well, it is a steroid, and should only be used in in very small quantities and for short amounts of time. Long-term side effects can be dangerous and include cataracts. Because of this, a lower dose is prescribed for the delicate eye area. There are non-steroid creams such as Elidel, which are a good alternative for those wanting to play it safe.
Other Tips
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Women should wear hypoallergenic makeup. All sufferers should remove stress from their lives wherever possible (as by practicing meditation, yoga or tai chi). And the use of a gentle face wash, like Cetaphil, is recommended.
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