Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a chronic skin condition that usually appears on the scalp, face, neck, or creases of the elbows, wrists, and knees. The symptoms are small blisters and crusty scales on the skin surface, often accompanied by inflammation. Children and adults alike may be affected, and the condition often runs in families. Asthma is often associated with this skin condition.
A variety of irritants or allergens can aggravate eczema. These include:
Wearing wool fabric
Sweating
Stress
Exposure to extreme weather conditions
(especially high heat and humidity)
Eating foods such as eggs, milk, seafood,
or wheat products
Contact with cosmetics, dyes, medicines,
deodorants, skin lotions, permanent press fabrics, and other allergens
Eczema is quite unpredictable. Usually it's at its worst in childhood and gradually lets up as you get older. Sometimes it goes away for good. Eczema can be a lifetime problem, though.
Are there any signs of infection with the eczema, such as fever,
or is there a large amount of weeping or crusting present?  |
 |
| Has the rash lasted for a long time? |
 |
True eczema needs a doctor's care. You can, however, do much to maintain good
skin care and to manage eczema. Follow these tips:
Don't take baths too often. Sponge bathe in
between tub baths. Add bath oil to the water. Or, take quick showers.
Use warm (not hot) water when you take a
bath or shower.
Use a mild soap or no soap at all on the
areas of eczema.
Stay away from wool clothes and blankets.
Use a light, nongreasy lotion on your skin
after you wash. Pick one that is unscented. Don't use lotions that have alcohol. They can
dry the skin.
Try to keep from sweating. For example,
don't wear too many clothes for the weather.
Wear rubber gloves when you do housework.
Put talcum powder or cornstarch inside the gloves. Or, try latex gloves lined with cotton.
Stay away from foods, chemicals, cosmetics,
and other things that make your eczema worse.
And above all, don't scratch! Scratching
eczema only makes it worse. It can get infected. Keep your fingernails cut short.
HEALTH AT HOME - Your Complete Guide to Symptoms, Solutions, and Self-Care © 1999 by Don R. Powell. American Institute for Preventive Medicine.
Date updated 02/01/99