Understanding and Treating Eczema

Do you suffer from persistent rashes, scaly skin or swelling tissue? Chances are good you are experiencing an eczema breakout, sometimes referred to as dermatitis. This is usually a chronic condition that can present in infancy and persist throughout your adult life. Proper treatment and/or prevention requires understanding the possible causes.

Atopic Dermatitis

Probably the most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis. This type is considered hereditary and is believed to be an allergy based disorder since it is very prevalent in people who suffer from asthma. Atopic dermatitis is most often found on the hands, inside of elbows, behind the knees, scalp and buttocks.

Contact Dermatitis

As the name suggest this type of eczema occurs due to contact with a particular irritant. This type is also an allergy based problem and is the most treatable form of eczema. Generally, all you must do is avoid the irritant and treat the current breakout. There are some irritants that only cause issues once exposed to the sunlight; this is referred to as phototoxic dermatitis.

Dry Skin

A less common form of eczema results from severely dry skin. During the driest parts of the year, typically winter, skin on the limbs and trunk become very dry and itchy. This often results in patches resembling a dry creek or riverbed.

Treatments

Corticosteroids are the most common topical treatment for eczema. These creams contain varying levels of steroids, which have been shown to be very effective treatments. Unfortunately, the higher the steroid percentage the more risk of side effects, some of which are severe. Over time, topical steroids can weaken the skin tissue causing more problems than they solve. Another problem with corticosteroids is their immune suppressive function, which means without antibiotic use they can lead to more serious skin infections.

Natural Eczema Treatment

Due to side effects many people prefer to use natural eczema treatments and prevention, rather than strong over the counter or prescription medications. If you have eczema prone skin, here are a few natural ways to treat/prevent the condition.

• Avoid common triggers- if you suffer from contact dermatitis avoid contact with the offending substance or use gloves when it is unavoidable.
• Bathing- showers and baths should be cool as hot water can aggravate sensitive skin
• Additives- adding oatmeal, milk or almond oil to the bath can sooth eczema flare ups
• Organic Skin Pads- naturally organic skin pads are a good topical application
• Pat dry- avoid rubbing tender skin with a towel after bathing, instead pat dry

• Moisturize- regardless of the type of eczema you suffer from moisturizing is very important. Oatmeal or coconut based emollients are great for eczema.