Eczema or atopic dermatitis is a recurring itchy skin condition. Patients often present with intense itching, recurring red rash, dry and scaly areas and blisters. Eczema is mainly a childhood disease and it can be seen in adults as well.
Eczema is not life-threatening but it disrupts you from leading a normal life. Itching can cause public embarrassment, and sleepless nights. Eczema flare-ups have caused its sufferers to miss school and work, and unable to attend to personal obligations. Constant scratching can lead to skin infections
Treatment of eczema
Consult a Dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment for eczema which includes
- Proper skin care with gentle cleansers and moisturisers
- Avoiding triggers and allergens
- Topical steroid or topical calcineurin inhibitors under medical supervision
- Wet wrap therapy
- Antihistamines can be useful in the symptomatic relief of itch.
- Phototherapy
- In severe cases, oral medication such as antibiotics, oral steroids, anti-inflammatory, immune-modulator and biologics
Tips to prevent eczema flares
- Clothings : Wear cotton and soft fabrics. Avoid synthetic fabrics. Substitute tight clothing with looser clothing.
- Bath : Take lukewarm baths with mild soap. When drying, pat yourself dry with a soft towel. Do not rub your skin.
- Moisturiser : Apply moisturizer with ceramides or skin lipids often and also immediately after bathing to ‘lock in’ moisture.
- Life-style : Avoid activities that make you sweat profusely. Relax whenever you can, to reduce stress-induced eczema
- Environment: Avoid rapid changes of temperature and factors in environment like heat, dust, dry weather.
- Remove carpets (for those with allergies). You may also want to keep your distance from pets (long-haired dogs and cats).
