How to Control Eczema
Eczema is a chronic skin condition characterized by dry, itchy and inflamed skin. There is no single cause for eczema, but flare ups are often caused when the body responds to the immune system's reaction to environmental and emotional changes. These changes include extremes in temperature, humidity, chemical and physical irritants, perfumes, and certain clothing materials. Although there is no known cure for eczema, there are several ways to control it.
Things You'll Need
- Hypoallergenic soaps and lotions
- Mild laundry detergents
- Antihistamines
- Prescribed cream or ointment
- Hydrocortizone cream
Instructions
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Be gentle with your skin. Don't scratch it. Although eczema causes the skin to itch in the affected areas, scratching it only makes it works. It can cause the skin to become darker, and it can cause it to crack and bleed. Take precautions to try to minimize your scratching. Keep your fingernails cut short. If necessary, wear gloves at night to prevent scratching in your sleep.
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Start a food diary to keep track of certain foods that cause your eczema to flare up. Eliminate or reduce intake of foods that may cause eczema flare-ups. Some foods that may worsen or aggravate eczema include milk, eggs, wheat, coffee, and soybean products. Be sure your diet contains foods with essential fatty acids such as green leafy vegetables, flaxseed oil, salmon, walnuts, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds.
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Try to avoid other triggers such as allergens, stress, scratchy clothing, alcohol, fragrances, ingredients in cosmetic products, harsh soaps, and detergents. Use mild, hypoallergenic soaps and a mild liquid laundry detergent. Wash new clothes, towels and linens before wearing or using them.
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Shower or bathe in warm water rather than hot. Hot water causes the skin to dry out. Use only soap on the affected areas to avoid irritating the skin by rubbing with a washcloth. Apply a hypoallergenic moisturizing lotion or cream to the skin a few minutes after bathing. Be sure to apply and prescription creams or ointments prior to applying any other moisturizers.
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Speak to a dermatologist about treatment options. There are creams, ointments, corticosteroids, antihistamines, and antibiotics available to treat and manage eczema. Your doctor may also discuss other treatment options such as ultraviolet light therapy, applying wet dressings, homeopathy, and aromatherapy.
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Take precautions around your home to help eliminate flare up triggers. Maintain stable temperatures in your home by using a humidifier during the winter to reduce levels of humidity. In the summer, try to avoid sweating. Keep the air inside the home cooler with air conditioners and fans. It's helpful to eliminate carpets, rugs, blinds, and other things that can collect dust and pet dander. Avoid using household products that contain harsh chemicals. Wear gloves while cleaning to avoid contact with skin.
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Tips & Warnings
Be careful of trying herbal remedies if you're using prescribed medication. It can interfere with the effectiveness of the medication.
