subject: Different Methods To Help Treat Eczema Outbreaks [print this page] Eczema is a form of dermatitis that a lot of people are afflicted with. Symptoms can occur in a wide range of severity, from a small area of mild irritation to the entire body being raw. Regardless of severity, it is essentially what happens when the top layer of skin becomes inflamed, making it red and itchy. However, no one who suffers from this should feel the need to simply live with it. It is true that there is no cure as of yet, but it is possible to use different methods to relieve the symptoms and suffering.
Topical Steroid Use
Topical creams called corticosteroids are often used to treat many different kinds of skin rashes and disorders, and have been shown to be very effective. Depending on the severity of the irritation these creams range in strength from mild ones, which in many places can be purchased at a drug store without a prescription, to much stronger varieties that need a doctor's recommendation in order to buy. Although they work very well, these creams can also produce side effects like making the skin thinner or weaker. People are usually advised to use them sparingly on sensitive areas of the skin, like one's face. Blindness due to cataracts can also occur if accidental contact is made with the eyes. But medical professionals still debate whether these effects are actually much of a risk.
Skin Moisturizing
One of the most common causes of skin irritation is overly dry skin. Keeping the skin moisturized regularly can greatly relieve symptoms and prevent future breakouts. Applying lotion regularly is of course important, but also avoid using products that dry the skin out. Many perfumes and powders can also lead to dry skin, so these should be used sparingly. Also, try replacing soap with a less harsh product, such as moisturizing body wash. Also a factor is how hard or soft your water is. If you are using hard water, devices can be installed into your home to soften the water. More severely dry skin can also be given prescription ointments at a doctor's discretion.
Changing Your Lifestyle
There are times when skin irritation can become much worse due to simple lifestyle habits, or things we can easily avoid. For instance, food allergies can at times be a cause for symptoms to show, and changing one's regular diet can greatly help the issue, if not get rid of it all together. Those who suffer from constant irritation may also discover that they have begun to scratch the itchy area simply out of habit and not just when it is itching. This non stop scratching is very rough on the skin and can make current symptoms much worse. If scratched too frequently or too hard the skin may also break, letting germs in beneath the outer layer of skin, causing an infection and making the episode even worse.
Many people are highly troubled by eczema, but it is not as difficult to deal with as some might think. With the many treatments available, both through medication and at home changes, most people can successfully find relief when their symptoms flare up. It is important to remember though that a doctor should always be consulted before trying any new treatment, and how severe one's symptoms are may be a large factor in how effective different treatments are.
