Eczema manifests as a dry, itchy, and reddened skin rash characterized by a disruption in the outermost layer of the skin, rendering it more susceptible to environmental allergens and infections, though it is not contagious. The condition can persist and prove frustrating, with symptoms such as:
- Dry and itchy skin
- Red, brown, or gray patches on various parts of the body including the hands, wrists, ankles, feet, insides of the elbows, and backs of knees
- Small raised bumps that exude fluid and form crusts when scratched
- Inflamed patches of skin
- Thickened, swollen, or scaly skin
Approximately 15 million Americans contend with some form of eczema, affecting both genders equally. However, individuals with a familial history of food and environmental allergies or asthma are more prone to it. Atopic dermatitis stands as the most prevalent type of eczema.
Living with eczema entails a constant quest for relief from the discomfort of red, itchy skin. Many individuals have experimented with numerous products, only to find that some exacerbate dryness and irritation rather than offering respite.
However, there’s no need to lose hope just yet! Beyond medications, there exists a plethora of home remedies that can potentially alleviate symptoms. The following eight natural remedies are worth exploring as they may aid in replenishing moisture and fortifying your skin’s natural barrier.
Eczema Remedies
Eczema lacks a permanent cure, but adopting certain lifestyle adjustments and treatments can alleviate itching and reduce the likelihood of future flare-ups.
Maintaining Clean and Healthy Habits
Consistent adherence to a home care routine can mitigate eczema flare-ups. Consider the following practices:
- Opt for soap-free, oil-free, and unscented hair and body products.
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking ample water to keep the skin moisturized.
- Regularly clean your living space to eliminate allergens like pollen, mold, and tobacco smoke.
- Incorporate stress-reducing activities such as exercise, meditation, or counseling into your daily and weekly regimen to mitigate flare-ups.
- Remove potential skin irritants from your environment, including certain lotions, soaps, and fabrics. Additionally, if you have allergies to specific foods or animal fur, avoid exposure to those triggers.
Oral and Topical Medications
Various over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription treatments are available for individuals with eczema. Collaborate with your healthcare provider to explore suitable options for your skin. Consider the following treatments:
- Antihistamines: These medications block histamines, which trigger allergy symptoms like redness and itching. However, they may induce drowsiness.
- Antibiotics: Oral antibiotics help eradicate bacteria introduced through scratching, thus alleviating eczema symptoms. Complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed.
- Biologics: These drugs target the inflammatory source responsible for eczema symptoms. Examples include Dupixent (dupilumab) and Adbry (tralokinumab-ldrm).
- Calcineurin Inhibitors: These immunosuppressant drugs reduce inflammation in conditions like eczema and rheumatoid arthritis. Tacrolimus, cyclosporine, and pimecrolimus are common examples.
- Corticosteroids: Available in pill, liquid, or injectable forms, corticosteroids are prescribed for severe cases. Prolonged use of this steroid type can lead to serious side effects and is typically reserved for flare-up management.
- Cyclosporine: This medication suppresses the immune system to prevent flare-ups and can be administered orally or as a liquid. Discuss potential side effects with your doctor.
- JAK Inhibitors: These oral and topical medications (Xeljanz, Cibinqo, Olumiant, Rinvoq, and Jyseleca) treat chronic inflammatory disorders including atopic dermatitis, psoriatic arthritis, and alopecia areata by suppressing enzymes promoting inflammation.
- Methotrexate: An immunosuppressant, methotrexate helps manage eczema but may harm the liver if used for extended periods.
- Phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE-4) Inhibitors: These drugs suppress inflammation.
- Phototherapy: This treatment employs specific wavelengths of ultraviolet (UV) light to target the immune system and alleviate inflammation.
- Topical Steroid Creams: Applied directly to affected areas, these creams or ointments ease inflammation and swelling. Different strengths are available, but overuse can cause skin discoloration and thinning.
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When To See Your Doctor
Eczema symptoms can vary from mild to severe and increase the susceptibility to skin infections. It’s important to consult a doctor if you or your child are experiencing:
- Discomfort and pain that disrupt sleep or daily functioning
- Persistent eczema symptoms despite trying over-the-counter or home remedies
- Escalating skin infections, particularly those showing signs of pus, red streaks, or yellow scabs
If any of these symptoms are coupled with a fever, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly.
Eczema Remedies For Children
Around 10% to 20% of infants experience eczema, typically presenting as a rash on the face and scalp. In many instances, this condition improves by the age of five and may cease entirely.
Medical consensus suggests that eczema may be hereditary, passed down from parents to their children. Symptoms can vary depending on the child’s age.
In more severe cases, infants may develop eczema on less common areas such as the torso, elbows, and knees. Older children and teenagers typically experience the rash in areas like the inner elbows, behind the knees, neck, or wrists and ankles. The affected skin may appear dry, thickened, and exhibit a scaly texture.
To address your child’s eczema or prevent future flare-ups, consider the following measures:
- Avoid skincare products containing heavy fragrances and potential irritants.
- Trim your child’s fingernails and encourage them to wear gloves to minimize skin damage from scratching.
- Establish a routine for bathing, moisturizing, and applying age-appropriate treatments as advised by a pediatrician. Consult your doctor about the “soak and seal” method, and consider reducing bathing frequency to preserve natural skin oils.
- Discuss with a pediatrician or dermatologist the potential benefits of oatmeal baths or bleach baths to alleviate inflammation and discourage bacterial growth.
- Enhance the efficacy of topical medications and moisturize the skin by employing wet wrap therapy, which can also deter scratching behavior.
Conclusion
Eczema presents a common challenge, particularly among infants and young children, with symptoms ranging from mild irritation to more severe discomfort. While the condition may improve over time and often resolves by the age of five, it can still pose significant challenges for affected individuals and their families. Understanding the triggers and appropriate management strategies, such as avoiding potential irritants, maintaining proper skincare routines, and consulting healthcare professionals for tailored treatments, can greatly alleviate symptoms and prevent flare-ups. By taking proactive steps to address eczema, both parents and children can enhance their quality of life and promote healthier skin in the long term.
