Eczema treatment
Eczema is a word used to describe many different types of skin inflammations, also known dermatitis. Although eczema is most often found in infants, people of all ages can suffer from this condition. If you have a family history of eczema or allergies then you or your children are at risk for developing eczema as well. There are different things that can trigger eczema in different people, even though there is no real knowledge as to why people get eczema. Some of the triggers that can cause outbreaks are, stress, soap, detergent, jewelry, clothing, make up, and perfume. Also changes in temperature or environment can cause a reaction in some people. Not to mention, allergens floating in the air that may cause an allergic reaction such as dust, dander, weeds or pollen.
Some people have eczema that comes and goes where others seem to have eczema that is relentless and never fading. Regardless of what triggers your eczema you are probably frustrated and looking for some solutions in dealing with this condition. There are different ways to help treat eczema, although it may never go away completely.
Avoid using hot water to bathe since hot water will dry your skin out quickly, and use mild soaps that are not drying or heavy in perfumes. Stick with warm baths and apply your moisturizers immediately after drying off. Make sure you keep your skin hydrated by applying lotions or ointments throughout the day.
Try to pay attention to what may be triggering your outbreaks. Maybe you should keep a journal to see if you notice a change in your skin after you have eaten certain foods. Also, watch if you have been around dust mites, pets or outside during the peak of allergy season. If you pay attention you may be able to pin point what it is that your skin is reacting to.
Another thing to avoid is wearing tight fitting clothing. This can cause material to rub against the skin resulting in a reaction. If your skin is already bothering you then the tight clothing can cause your eczema to itch or burn more. Materials like polyester and wool are known to cause reactions in some people so you should try to wear clothes that are not made up of these materials. Try wearing loose fitting, cotton clothing whenever possible. For some people, just excess sweating can cause the skin to react, so by wearing the loose fitting clothing your skin will be able to breathe better. Also, when you do your laundry, be sure to use detergents that are perfume free. Using a special baby detergent to launder clothes is often a good idea even for adult sufferers.
Taking an antihistamine can help to prevent the itching that comes along with eczema. Bedtime can be the worst time for itching with eczema. There are also topical antihistamine ointments that can be applied to the skin to help with itching. Your doctor may prescribe corticosteroid creams to decrease the inflammatory reaction in the skin. The use of oral corticosteroids has been prescribed to control acute outbreaks of eczema, although long-term use is discouraged because of the possible harmful side effects. For some patients, ultraviolet light therapy has been another treatment option that has helped.
If you or your child has eczema, it can be frustrating and challenging dealing with this condition. Be sure to see your doctor and ask about all your treatment options. These are only a few of the simpler treatments possible and some of the lifestyle adjustments that you can make that may possibly help your situation.
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