Eczema Treatments With Antibiotics

Eczema is a common skin condition characterize by red, itchy skin and small blisters. Of people with eczema, 10 to 20 percent develop it in early childhood. Most people outgrow eczema, but for some it becomes a lifelong affliction. There is no cure for eczema, but there are many treatments, ranging from special diets to emollients and steroid creams. For more severe cases, dermatologists may also prescribe either topical or oral antibiotics. The antibiotics prevent infection that can result from cracked skin. The effectiveness of antibiotic treatments varies from person to person.

Types

There are several different types of eczema. The most common is called atopic dermatitis. There is no known cause for this type of eczema, but it is usually associated with hay fever and asthma.

Allergic contact dermatitis happens when the skin comes into direct physical contact with a known allergen such as perfume or fabric dye. Other common triggers include wool, nickel and biological laundry detergents.

Irritant contact dermatitis happens when the skin comes in contact with a harsh chemical substance. Symptoms often persist for a long time.

Seborrhoeic dermatitis commonly occurs on the scalp or other parts of the body that have hair. This type of eczema resembles dandruff.

Stasis dermatitis most often affects the elderly. The symptoms include dry, itchy skin, usually on the lower legs.

Causes

There are many different things that can cause eczema, so it's important to get a proper diagnosis from a dermatologist.

The exact cause of atopic dermatitis is unknown, but it's often triggered by allergens such as dust and pet hair. Both types of contact dermatitis are caused by direct contact with a specific substance. It can be prevented simply by staying away from known allergens. Seborrhoeic dermatitis is less-well understood. It may have something to do with a type of yeast called Malassezia, and can be triggered or exacerbated by stress. Stasis dermatitis is the result of poor blood circulation in the legs.

Antibiotics

Severe eczema can cause the skin to crack and bleed, leaving it susceptible to infections. Dermatologists often prescribe antibiotics to prevent and cure infections and decrease skin inflammation. Antibiotics can be taken orally as a pill or applied topically in the form of an ointment or a cream. Oral antibiotics include penicillin, erythromycin and flucloxacillin. Topical antibiotics include fusidic acid and mupirocin.

Warnings

The antibiotics used to treat eczema are no different from other types of antibiotics. The more you take, the greater the risk of developing infections that are resistant to antibiotics. You cannot kill every single bacteria. The ones that survive become resistant and multiply. Soon you need stronger and stronger antibiotics. Eventually, you run out of treatments that work.

Oral antibiotics can interact with other drugs, including contraceptive pills. Certain antibiotics cannot be taken while drinking alcohol.

Alternative treatments

There are many alternative treatments for eczema. Some are more effective than others. The most popular ones include evening primrose oil, licorice gel, Vitamin B supplements, fish oils and even hypnosis. Consult your doctor before trying any type of natural remedy.