Eczema is the disease that will keep reminding of itself during the life with temporary flare-ups. Unfortunately, theres no cure for it. This skin disease is characterized by itching and irritation of the skin on the neck, face, the insides of the elbows, knees and ankles. Infants experience these symptoms on their cheeks, forehead, scalp, neck, legs and forearms.
Different types of eczema acquire various forms and may reveal as itching, rash, irritation, redness, burning and patches. Your doctor will define and diagnose your eczema type and will find the solution how to treat your skin condition.
As said above, eczema is not curable. But luckily, it can be treated. The easiest option is to prevent scratching. Dry and itchy skin can be saved by regular application of the moisturizer. Lotions and creams produce the best effect when applied right after bath to get locked in. To relieve itching, cold compresses are usually applied to the skin.
If the condition worsens or does not improve within a long period of time, people usually get to the help of the nonprescription corticosteroid creams and ointments. Applied directly to the affected skin, they are purposed to reduce inflammation.
More potent corticosteroid creams and ointments should be prescribed by your doctor if the skin condition needs more serious treatment. Though, these medications have more side effects (such as skin thinning) than nonprescription one, but your doctor will define the proper length of treatment term and areas of applications so to lessen them.
Severe flare-ups are usually handled with the oral corticosteroids, which should not be taken during the long period. Theres a chance of potential side effects which can result into new flare-ups. Affected by eczema, skin often becomes exposed to infections. To kill harmful bacteria, antibiotics are additionally prescribed.
To reduce severe itching sedative antihistamines are available in prescription and nonprescription forms. Drowsiness is the potential side effect of these medications, so be sure you are not planning on driving when taking these agents.
Phototherapy is another option of eczema treatment and can give a positive effect. The ultraviolet light waves which have been noticed to be the source of therapeutic effect are used for the patients with chronic eczema. Exposure to the ultraviolet produces the solarium effect and equals to it in benefits and risks (skin aging or skin cancer).
Coal tar applied to affected areas is one more way to reduce eczema itch. It should be used under supervision of experienced doctor to prevent irritation that can be associated with its application.
Remember, that you can also help eczema avoiding known triggers materials you have allergies to, synthetic clothes, keeping your skin not sufficiently moisturized, being disposes to stress and eating certain foods (dairy products mostly).
Diana L.
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