How To Treat Eczema

Eczema is a general term for many types of skin inflammation (Dermatitis). Eczema is characterized by itchy, dry and even cracked skin. Eczema most frequently appear on the face and other areas of the skin. Eczema is not contagious
. The most common type of eczema is called atopic dermatitis and often people inappropriately use the two interchangeably. There are many types of eczematous dermatitis such as Atopic dermatitis, Contact eczema, Serbhorrheic eczema, Nummular eczema, Neurodermatitis, Stusis dermatitis, Dyshidrotic eczema. For purpose of this article, I will only dwell on atopic dermatitis which is the most common type of eczema.
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin disease that is characterized by inflamed and itchy skin. It tends to come and go, depending upon exposure to triggers or causative factors. Factors that cause atopic eczema include environmental factors like molds, pollen or pollutants, contact irritants like soap, detergents, nickel, (in jewelry) or perfumes, food allergies or other allergies. Eczema tends to run in families. Studies have shown that in people with eczema there are gene defects that lead to abnormalities in certain proteins (such as filaggrin) that are important in maintaining the barrier of normal skin.
How To Treat Eczema (Atopic dermatitis)
Corticosteroid creams are sometimes prescribed to decrease the inflammation reaction in the skin. These may be mild, medium or high potency corticosteroid creams depending on the severity of the symptoms. Oral antihistamine drugs appear to be most effective. For example diphenhyramine (Benadryl), hydroxyzine (Vistaril, Avarax) and cyproheptadine. In some cases, short course corticosteroids (such as prednisone) is prescribed to control an acute outbreak of eczema, although their long term use is discouraged because of unpleasant and potential harmful side effects. Drugs called topical immunomodulators are available to help treat eczema. These drugs help control inflammation and reduce immune system reactions when applied on the skin.
Prevention Tips

• Avoid over-bathing.
• Apply moisturizer frequently especially after bathing.
• Bathing in warm not hot water and using a mild soap.
• Limiting or avoiding contact with know irritants like soaps, perfumes, detergents, jewelry, environmental irritants and so on.
• Wearing loose fitting clothing.
• Avoiding foods that cause allergic reactions.
• Exercise or other stress management techniques can help those for whom stress is a trigger.
• Avoid activities that make you hot and sweaty.
• Maintaining cool temperature in sleeping areas because heat can lead to sweating that worsens itching and irritation.
• Practicing good skin hygiene even when you are not having symptoms.

Eczema is a chronic, incurable condition that can often resolve spontaneously. Good skin care is a major component in controlling eczema. While eczema is not preventable the self care measures provided can help manage symptoms and reduce the severity of outbreaks.