Eczema is a skin condition that causes itchy, swollen and irritated skin that can result in scarring if not treated properly, according to MedlinePlus. Eczema is most commonly found in children and subsides during development, but some adults suffer from the condition throughout their lives. According to MayoClinic.com, the cause of eczema is unknown. Doctors know it is an allergic reaction on the skin that is triggered by various elements. One of the most common triggers for eczema is allergies such as food allergies, household allergies and environmental allergies. Talk with an allergist about the best treatment approach.
Food Allergies
According to the National Eczema Association, food allergies can cause an eczema flare-up. Highly allergic foods, such as dairy products, eggs, shellfish and nuts, are the most common food allergy triggers. Identify the foods that aggravate the eczema by seeing an allergist. Once the foods are identified, they should be avoided. Identifying the foods that worsen an individual's eczema begins with observance. The patient should keep track of the foods ingested and when he notices an eczema flare-up. Two other tests performed to identify food allergies are a skin test and blood test, performed by a doctor. In some cases, immunotherapy can effectively treat the food allergy, preventing eczema flare-ups.
Household Allergens
According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, household allergens can worsen a person's eczema condition. Common household allergens include dust mites, cockroaches, mold and animal dander. Dust mites live in humid and warm conditions and thrive in bedding, carpets and other upholstered furnishings. The byproducts of cockroaches affect people with household allergies. Mold is a highly allergic substance found in every home. Mold is found in the kitchen, the bathroom and other dark and damp environments. Remove all visible molds and run an air purifier in the home. If someone suffers from eczema and is allergic to animal dander, she should avoiding owing a pet, according to the MayoClinic.com.
Outdoor Allergens
The most common outdoor allergens are pollen and mold spores. Both allergens are airborne and can worsen a person's eczema condition. People with a pollen or mold allergies should avoid going outdoors during springtime. During the spring, pollen and mold counts are at their annual high due to blooming. These allergens can get lodged in the sinus cavity, causing continual allergic reactions that can aggravate eczema.
