How Is Eczema Treated?

Eczema is a skin condition that can be very painful and embarrassing. The symptoms include having a red, itchy rash on various areas of the skin that is very irritating. Infection may develop if the rash is scratched, and this may lead to noticeable scabs, scaliness and even scars. There are different types of treatments that are used for eczema and how well the treatments work depend on the severity of the condition. These are some of the treatments that are often used for mild and severe eczema.

Mild Eczema 

When the symptoms of eczema first begin, they may be mild and can be managed if treated early. 

  • Use mild skin cleansers and moisturizers regularly. These products do not contain harsh chemicals and fragrances that may cause eczema to become more irritated. 
  • Take short, warm showers. Long, hot showers can quickly dry up the natural oils of the skin. This makes the skin become dry and can trigger eczema flare-ups. Warm, short showers are less likely to dry out the skin.
  • Stress can also cause eczema to flare up more quickly. Relieve stress by taking time to relax and practice calming exercises. Taking walks and doing regular stretching exercises are ideal ways to destress both your body and mind.
  • Using a humidifier in your home is also helpful for eczema symptoms. This puts more moisture in the air that can be absorbed by the skin.
  • Certain over-the-counter medications also work well at treating mild eczema. Using hydrocortisone creams daily can dry up irritated skin and also control itching. Oral antihistamines also help control the redness and itching of eczema.

Severe Eczema 

When eczema symptoms become more severe, there may be cracking of the skin that oozes and becomes even more painful. Treatments used for mild eczema may no longer work for severe eczema. While the same good skin care will need to continue, stronger treatments will be needed to control the symptoms.

  • Oral medications are often prescribed for severe eczema. This may include prescription-strength antibiotics, corticosteroids, antihistamines and immunosuppressants.
  • Prescription creams are also used to control severe eczema symptoms. Steroid creams help relieve irritation, and immunomodulator creams control inflammation and reduce reactions to eczema by the immune system.
  • Extremely severe cases of eczema may also be treated with ultraviolet light therapy on the affected areas of the skin.

The type of clothing a person wears can also trigger eczema flare-ups. Tight heavy clothing that rubs against the skin can irritate it and cause more redness and itching. It is best to wear light, loose clothing only over the areas of skin that are affected by eczema.

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