1. What is Eczema?
Eczema is a localized skin rash that can appear anywhere on the body. The rash develops quickly and appears as a red and swollen. Very itchy, eczema or dermatitis is a common skin condition. Acute eczema is an immune system response by the body to protect against a perceived threat. The body releases histamine as part of the defense program and the appearance of a rash.
2. Possible Causes
Food and chemical allergies and sensitivities are triggers for eczema. To determine your trigger, investigate your allergies and see if there are irritants in any of your favorite products. These chemicals can be very drying, further aggravating eczema. Think about what types of materials have come in contact with your skin. Nickel, adhesives, large amounts of water and detergents can cause the development of eczema.
3. Easy Soothing Steps
Try oatmeal based soap or skin cream, as they relieve the itching and moisturize the skin. Use a moisturizing soap, such as Dove to avoid stripping the skin of moisture. Avoid hot showers and opt for cool baths instead. Pat, don't rub the skin dry and cream immediately after each bath. Use heavy moisturizing creams with no added fragrance or color where possible. Wear cool clothes of natural fibers where possible. Avoid nylon, wool and spandex.
4. Treating Eczema
Eczema is a skin condition and will reoccur throughout your life. Treat your skin with care and you can reduce the number of rashes. Over-the-counter hydro cortisone based creams relieve the symptoms and encourage healing. Take an antihistamine to reduce the inflammation and irritation of the skin. Try a little sunlight--eczema skin is very sensitive to sunlight, so be careful, but gentle expose to the sun is a cure for eczema. If you are using prescription creams for your eczema, read the warnings with care. Many products thin the skin, increasing your risk of skin cancer. Be careful!!
5. When to See the Doctor
When eczema is spreading, over-the-counter medicine is not working, or when it appears on a child under 6 years of age, go to the doctor. There are many prescription strength creams and lotions that treat eczema effectively. It is important to see a doctor for small children, as they scratch and can cause an infection called impetigo which is very contagious and unsightly. With proper care and attention, eczema can be treated successfully.
