Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, causes a rash with itching and inflammation on the skin in response to an allergy. The condition is common in children. Around 10 percent of children experience the symptoms of eczema, according to KidsHealth from Nemours. The condition runs in families, especially in families with additional allergies or asthma. The rash can appear on any area of the skin, but the most common areas affected include the arms and the area behind the knees. Although there is no cure for eczema, there are treatment options available to help control the symptoms and prevent future flare-ups of the rash.
Skin Protection
Eczema causes extremely itchy skin, and it is best to avoid scratching the rash. Scratching further irritates the skin and may cause open wounds. Placing a cool, wet washcloth over the itchy areas may help reduce the urge to scratch. Wearing gloves when working with chemicals such as cleaning products decreases the likelihood of causing a breakout. Using mild soaps with no fragrance to wash the skin helps decrease the likelihood of triggering a flare-up. Avoiding hot water and applying a greasy moisturizer such as petroleum jelly every day also help control eczema.
Avoiding Stress
Stress can trigger eczema. Learning to relax and cope with everyday stress can be helpful in reducing the symptoms of eczema, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Steroids
A physician can prescribe corticosteroids to help treat eczema. This medication is available as a topical cream or ointment and as an oral medication. The topical corticosteroids help relieve the itching and scaly skin associated with eczema. The oral corticosteroids, reserved for more severe cases of eczema, help control the inflammation and itching. Steroids are reserved for short-term use only because of the potential of causing serious side effects, according to the Mayo Clinic. Possible side effects from corticosteroids include thinning of the skin, irritation on the skin, an increased risk of infection, high blood pressure and muscular weakness.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines may help control the itching associated with eczema. Oral antihistamines can cause drowsiness and may provide the best itch relief at nighttime.
Antibiotics
Prolonged or aggressive scratching may cause the skin to break open and allow bacteria to enter the skin. The bacteria can cause a skin infection. Antibiotics treat the bacterial infection.
Immunomodulator Medications
Medications called immunomodulators are creams and ointments available with a physician's prescription. These medications work with the immune system to help reduce the inflammation and itching caused by eczema. Like corticosteroids, immunomodulators are for short-term use.
Phototherapy
Using light therapy, also called phototherapy, may help control the symptoms of eczema. Exposing the irritated skin to sunlight or artificial ultraviolet light can provide temporary relief. Consult with a physician before beginning phototherapy, because there is a potential to cause harm to the skin. Ultraviolet light causes skin to wrinkle prematurely and increases the risk of developing skin cancer.
