Eczema Causes and Cure

Eczema is a group of skin diseases that results in inflammation of the skin. These diseases appear as red patches like rashes. They are itchy, rough and scaly. They can appear on any parts of our body. Most commonly on face, hands, arms and legs.

What causes Eczema and how to treat it

Studies show that there is a link between allergies and eczema. Studies show that if one or more parents have eczema, or seasonal allergies, their child is more likely to have eczema. It happens in my family. I have seasonal allergy and two of my children have seasonal allergy and eczema. Their eczema disappear when the weather is cooler. During the winter months their eczema appear when they face with extreme temperature change. The cold outdoor temperature and warm indoor temperature trigger the outburst of their eczema.

Scientists are still researching the link between allergies and eczema. Hopefully one day we will have better treatment for eczema.

Certain foods like eggs, nuts and milk will trigger the symptom of eczema.
Skin contact with wool, soap, detergent, cigarette smoke, perfume will cause skin itchiness.

Dust mites, pollen, pet dander, mold will trigger the outburst of eczema.

Treatment

There is no cure for Eczema. Treatment for Eczema is essential. Proper treatment will control the rash and itch of the skin and thus prevent further infection.
You can get medications like pills, liquids or shots from doctor prescription. Most ointment, cream and moisturizer can get over the counter.

Phototherapy is also used for skin treatment for Eczema.

Home/Natural Remedies

There are many eczema cure home remedies which can help to ease the symptom of eczema.

• Soothing Bath – adding 2 teaspoons of olive oil and a glass of milk into your bath water. This will moisturize and soothe dry skin. Oatmeal bath is also known to soothing itch. Grind some oatmeal and sprinkle into bath water with some Epson salt.
• Eat Flaxseed which is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation. Grind up some flaxseed and add to smoothies, salad, cereal.
• Eat fish oil. Several studies have show that consume high doses of omega-3 fish oil improved the eczema condition.
• Apply Olive oil which is packed with omega-3 fatty acids which reduce inflammation. Rubbing some warm olive oil into affected areas of the skin to soften scaly patches. Adding olive oil to your diet can also help heal your skin from the inside out.
• Apply Coconut oil – has antibacterial, anti-fungal, antioxidant that can help soothe your skin when it’s itchy during a flare-up, and can also help reduce the inflammation. Rub coconut oil onto affect area and let it dry.
• Apply Tea tree oil – useful for relieving itch
• Apply Aloe Vera oil – is rich in anti-inflammatory and healing compounds, and provides a nice cooling sensation to itchy skin.
• Apply Baking Soda – Mix 1 1/2 cups of baking soda with 3 gallons of water. Use a washcloth to apply the mixture to itchy skin for quick relief.
• Chamomile is incredible at soothing the skin. It reduces inflammation, tames itchiness, and heals spots that may have been overly-scratched at.
• Apply cold compress to reduce the inflammation quickly. Use several layers of cheesecloth or soft cotton cloth cut to fit over the affected area. Soak the cloth with water. Place on the skin for 20 to 30 minutes. Keep the cloth continuously wet and uncovered to allow evaporation. Then pat the skin dry and apply your medication

Tips for everyday relief

The three main steps of eczema management involve:

• Bathing and moisturizing to repair skin -Use a mild liquid cleanser or gentle bar soap. Liquid agents are often better choices for patients with sensitive skin, as they are less abrasive and are more easily and effectively rinsed off.  After bathing, gently pat the skin dry. Apply moisturizer.

• Avoiding triggers that cause flare-ups.
  • Use mild detergents to wash clothing, with no bleach or fabric softener
  • Double-rinse clothing
  • Often Moisturize, especially in colder weather
  • Choose cotton for bed linens and clothing
  • Reduce stress as much as possible
• Don’t:
  • Expose skin to very hot or very cold water
  • Expose skin to excessive heat or low humidity
  • Dress in synthetic fabrics or wear wool next to the skin
  • Use harsh detergents or perfumed products

   

• Medications to reduce inflammation

Conclusion

Most types of eczema require a combination of treatments and medications. Your dermatologist will choose the ones that will work the best to control your condition.