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, including:
- 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 completely disappears for good. Still, eczema can be a lifetime problem, and although you can't cure it, you can manage it. Here's how:
- Bathe less frequently (perhaps sponge bathing in between tub baths) and add oil to the bathwater. Or take quick showers.
- Use tepid (not hot) water when bathing or showering.
- Use a mild soap or no soap at all on the areas of eczema.
- Avoid contact with wool clothing or blankets.
- After bathing, moisturize your skin with a light, nongreasy, unscented lotion.
- Don't overdress or promote perspiration in any way.
- Wear rubber gloves dusted on the inside with talcum powder or cornstarch when doing household chores. Or try cotton-lined latex gloves.
- Avoid any foods, chemicals, cosmetics, or other allergens that worsen the condition.
- And above all, don't scratch! Scratching eczema only makes it worse. You'll break the skin, allowing bacteria to infect the skin. (If that happens, consult a doctor.) So hands off!
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