Eczema: Triggers & Treatments

Eczema is a term used to describe a group of medical conditions that irritate and inflame the skin in chronic, itchy patches. About 15 million people in the U.S. suffer from some kind of eczema, and symptoms vary among every case. The most common symptoms typically include itchy, dry, red patches of skin which break out into rashes when scratched.

Let’s keep reading to find out more about what may trigger an eczema outbreak and how to treat it.

Triggers

Certain objects, foods, life events, and environmental conditions are all known to trigger eczema outbreaks.  It can be brought on when any harsh, or coarse, material touches the skin, as well as exposure to extreme weather conditions.  Allergic reactions to dander, and dust, as well as certain food allergies, have also been known to cause flare-ups.  Foods which commonly trigger eczema symptoms in some people include cow’s milk, soy, eggs, wheat, fish, and nuts.  Soaps, laundry detergents, and disinfectants are often overlooked as eczema triggers. Stress on its own does not cause eczema outbreaks, although a common reaction to stress is scratching skin, which in turn causes the eczema to flare.

Treatment Options

Treatment options for eczema vary, based on a patients’ individual needs. People who react to stress-related eczema by scratching their skin are advised to keep their fingernails short, or to wear cotton gloves in order to prevent scratching. Relaxation techniques, such as exercising, may also help to reduce stress in some cases.

Eczema sufferers should look for mild, fragrance and dye-free soaps, and laundry detergents. Fragrance and dye-free detergents will help prevent eczema outbreaks, since traditional soaps and detergents strip skin of their essential natural oils, causing dryness. Moisturizing lotions and creams, which restore moisture to dry skin, are especially helpful in treating skin prone to flare-ups. Setting a cold compress on eczema-affected skin can also help reduce itchiness and redness.

Nonprescription anti-inflammatory creams and ointments, such as hydrocortisone, prevent and reduce itchiness and redness. Doctors may also prescribe their patients with medication to alleviate these symptoms.

Eczema Treatment in Grosse Point

If you have any questions about eczema or how to treat it, contact us today to schedule an appointment. Our offices are located in Grosse Point, and you can contact us at (313) 886-2600. We look forward to serving you!

This entry was posted
on Thursday, August 22nd, 2013 at 8:12 pm and is filed under Medical Dermatology.
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