Are you itching to the point of collapse? Here is the 3-day eczema savior that can relieve itching

What is eczema?

Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a medical condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It often develops in young children, but can occur at any age. Atopic dermatitis lasts a long time (chronic) and sometimes flares up. It can be uncomfortable, but it is not contagious.

People with atopic dermatitis are more likely to develop food allergies, hay fever, and asthma.

Regular moisturizing and following other skin care habits can relieve itching and prevent new outbreaks (flares).

What are the types of eczema?

There are several types of eczema. Each type has unique triggers that affect the skin's barrier function, including:

▸ Atopic dermatitis.

▸ Contact dermatitis.

▸ Dyshidrotic eczema.

▸ Neurodermatitis.

▸ Nummular eczema.

▸ Seborrheic dermatitis.

It is possible to have more than one type of eczema at the same time.

Who does eczema affect?

Eczema can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms often appear in childhood and continue into adulthood. You may be at a higher risk for eczema if you have a family history or have been diagnosed with any of the following:

▸Dermatitis.

▸Allergies.

▸Pollen allergy.

▸Asthma.

How common is eczema?

Eczema is common, affecting more than 31 million Americans. Babies are susceptible to eczema, with 10% to 20% developing it. However, almost half of babies diagnosed with eczema outgrow it or see significant improvement as they get older. (https://tinyurl.com/msw6p6zj)

What causes eczema?

The first symptoms of eczema are itching, dry skin, and a rash. These symptoms indicate that you have come into contact with triggers in your environment that caused your symptoms to start or worsen. Identifying environmental triggers and avoiding them can reduce your risk of future eczema flare-ups.

Does eczema hurt?

Eczema is usually not painful. If you scratch your skin, you may break the surface of the skin and develop ulcers, which can be painful. Some types of eczema, such as contact dermatitis, can cause burning and discomfort.

Complications

Complications of atopic dermatitis (eczema) may include:

▸Asthma and hay fever. Many people with atopic dermatitis have asthma and hay fever. Asthma and hay fever may flare up before or after atopic dermatitis develops.

▸Food allergies. People with atopic dermatitis often develop food allergies. One of the main symptoms of this condition is hives.

▸Chronic itchy scaly skin. Neurodermatitis (lichen simplex chronicus) is a skin disease that starts with itching in a small area of ​​skin. Scratching the area only temporarily relieves the itching. Because scratching activates nerve fibers in the skin, it makes the itching worse. As you go on, you may develop a habit of scratching. This condition may cause localized discoloration, thickening, and roughening of the skin.

▸Patches that are darker or lighter than the surrounding skin. This complication, which occurs after the rash has subsided, is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation. This condition is more common in people with brown or black skin. It can take months for the skin to heal.

▸Skin infections. Repeated scratching can cause the skin to break down, leading to open sores and cracks that increase the risk of bacterial and viral infections. These skin infections can spread and even be life-threatening.

▸Irritant hand dermatitis. People whose jobs require their hands to be frequently wet and exposed to harsh soaps, detergents, and disinfectants are more likely to develop this condition.

▸Allergic contact dermatitis. This condition is common in people with atopic dermatitis. Allergic contact dermatitis is an itchy rash caused by contact with an allergic substance. The color of the rash depends on the person's skin color.

▸Sleep problems. The itching caused by atopic dermatitis may affect sleep.

▸Mental health conditions. Atopic dermatitis is associated with depression and anxiety. This may be related to the persistent itching and sleep disturbances that people with atopic dermatitis often experience.

Do certain foods trigger eczema?

The link between eczema and food allergies is unclear. If you have a food allergy, one reason you must avoid that food is that it may cause or worsen your eczema symptoms. Examples of common allergies include:

▸ Peanuts.

▸ Dairy.

▸ Eggs.

Watch your diet. If your eczema flares up after you eat a certain food, you may be allergic to that food. If you don't have a food allergy, no food will cause or worsen your eczema.

How can I get rid of my eczema?

Your eczema treatment will vary from person to person and will also depend on what is causing your symptoms to flare up. Eczema treatments may include:

▸ Use a gentle or sensitive skin moisturizer throughout the day when your skin is dry. Apply a moisturizer after bathing while your skin is damp.

▸ Apply topical medications to your skin, such as topical steroids, as recommended by your doctor.

▸ Take oral medications, such as anti-inflammatory drugs, antihistamines, or corticosteroids, to reduce itching and swelling.

▸ Immunosuppressant medications help regulate the function of your immune system.

▸ Light therapy can improve the appearance of your skin and remove blemishes.

▸Avoid triggers that cause eczema symptoms.

How long will it take for me to feel better after treatment?

After treatment, it may take several weeks for your skin to fully heal. Topical or oral medications prescribed by your healthcare provider may help your symptoms subside faster. If your symptoms get worse after treatment, or if they don't subside after a few weeks, contact your provider.

How can I prevent eczema?

There are things you can do to prevent eczema flare-ups and outbreaks, including:

▸ Moisturize your skin regularly or when it becomes dry. Apply moisturizer immediately after bathing to lock in moisture.

▸ Take a bath or shower with warm (not hot) water.

▸ Stay hydrated and drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Water helps keep your skin moisturized.

▸ Wear loose-fitting clothing made of cotton or other natural materials. Wash new clothing before wearing it. Avoid wearing clothing made of wool or synthetic fibers.

▸ Manage your stress and emotional triggers. See a psychiatrist for medication and a therapist for counseling if you're experiencing symptoms of poor mental/emotional health.

▸If dry air is drying out your skin, use a humidifier.

▸Avoid irritants and allergens.

Eczema is a very common and uncomfortable skin condition. It can affect your quality of life. At its worst, it can keep you awake, distract you, and make you uncomfortable in public. See a dermatologist or healthcare provider as soon as you start to see signs of eczema. Explore home remedies and prescription treatments until you find the best one for your skin.