Most food intolerances will not affect someone with eczema. A food allergy on the other hand can lead to an eczema flare-up. The difference between intolerance and an allergy has to do with different aspects of the body. Food intolerance is the body's inability to produce certain enzymes to breakdown particular foods, such as lactose intolerance. An allergy is a hypersensitivity to proteins found in different foods that can increase histamine levels in the blood, triggering eczema. Talk with a doctor for a proper diagnosis.
About Eczema
Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes inflammation in the skin that is the most common in infants and is outgrown by adulthood, according to MedlinePlus. Eczema appears as small red dots and becomes very itchy. When irritated, it can form into sores throughout the body that can crack open and leak. In severe cases, irritated eczema can leave permanent scaring. Eczema is triggered by various factors including food allergens, detergents and irritants.
Food Allergy Consideration
A food allergy is a hypersensitivity of the immune system to particular proteins in certain foods. The most common food allergies are to peanuts, shellfish, eggs and milk, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. The immune system attempts to ward off the proteins by releasing antibodies and histamine. Increased histamine levels in the blood are one of the main causes of an eczema outbreak.
Home Treatment
Avoid any foods that highly allergic, such as shrimp, peanuts and cow's milk. MedlinePlus recommends using a cold compress on the affected areas to sooth the itching and relieve the inflammation. Take short, cool baths and apply a liberal amount of moisturizing cream all over the body. Wear loose-fitting clothing avoiding excessive exercise or stressful situations.
Medical Treatment
Treat eczema with over-the-counter topical hydrocortisone creams. A doctor may prescribe a corticosteroid cream to apply to the affected areas, if the condition gets out of control, according to MayoClinic.com. Taking a daily over-the-counter antihistamine may help relieve some of the eczema symptoms. Consult with a doctor before attempting to self-medicate.
Consideration
If eczema is sever and caused by a food allergy, a doctor may recommend immunotherapy to treat the condition. Immunotherapy, or allergy shots, is administered over the span of a few years, using a small amount of the allergen to slowly desensitize the immune system to the particular substance. Immunotherapy is not for everyone and should be discussed with an allergist.
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