Eczema is a skin condition that affects about 35 million Americans of all ages, including young children. It is an inflammation of the skin that often causes rashes of various degrees of severity. The skin can become rough, patchy, dry, red and blistery. The most common form of eczema is called atopic dermatitis, which is considered an allergic hereditary skin inflammation.
Since this condition often occurs in young children, the symptoms are often distressing for parents to manage. No one wants to see their children suffering with an unbearable itch or rashes. It is also disruptive to adults who may have to miss days of work or remain completely covered up even in hot weather when dealing with this condition.
Causes of Eczema
Most experts believe that eczema is a hereditary condition -- it runs in the family. It could also have something to do with an overactive immune system that causes weird reactions in the skin. Others say that it may occur due to the skin coming into contact with an irritant, such as a bad detergent or type of clothing. Still others believe that it could have something to do with the person's diet (possibly a food allergy).
Top Eczema Treatments
The most common way to treat eczema is with a topical cortisone cream to control the inflammation. Other treatments include antihistamines for allergic reactions, topical antibacterial formulas to kill bacteria and anti-fungal creams if there is some type of fungal growth. There are also stronger, prescription strength ointments for more serious cases that can be obtained through a doctor.
Natural solutions for inflamed skin include aloe vera, cocoa butter and almond oil applied topically to the skin. They help soothe the itchiness and redness associated with chronic eczema.
Is There a Cure for Eczema?
Many doctors say that there isn't a cure for eczema. They say that it is a recurring health condition that can resurface at any time and it's not 100 percent clear what causes the flare ups. However, some dietitians and other experts say that there are ways to stop recurrent eczema symptoms by monitoring it and managing it.
For one, try changing your diet by identifying which foods may be causing the inflammation on your skin and eliminating them. For instance, dairy and foods containing gluten have been known to cause allergic reactions in some people, so eliminating them for a while can help you determine if your symptoms diminish. Another way to minimize or eliminate the effects of eczema is to eliminate stress from your life. A lot of the afflictions that show up on the skin and in the body are simply due to stress. Relax and talk to someone to help relieve your troubles.
Last but not least, always consult your doctor or dermatologist regarding your eczema symptoms, as there may be a unique solution for your case.
