Eczema is a chronic skin condition in which there is an irritation and inflammation of the skin. Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema. It is neither a serious problem, nor is it a contagious. However, the red, swollen and itchy skin can cause emotional and psychosocial stress in affected individuals.
Eczema is frequently seen in infants and children, and most will outgrow it before school age. But, for some, it can remain a long-lasting problem.
What Causes Eczema?
Even though the exact cause of eczema is unknown, it is thought to be caused due to an exaggerated response by the body’s immune system to an irritant. It is commonly seen in families with a history of other allergic conditions and asthma. Beside the cause, there are triggers which can result in flare-ups. Some people can have eczema flare-ups in response to certain substances or conditions such as rough materials or as a reaction to too hot or cold weather. Even, contact with some household products like soap or detergent, or animal dander can result in an outbreak. Stress may worsen eczema.
Symptoms
The symptoms of eczema differ from one person to another. Even, the appearance of the rash may be different, depending on the area involved. The intensity of eczema can vary from mild, to moderate to severe. Usually in eczema, the skin is dry and sensitive. Eczema is notorious for its severe itch. The itch can be so intense that a patient may scratch the skin until it bleeds, which only worsens the eczema resulting in more itching. Eczema severity can also show variation – there are times when it may get worse and times when your skin becomes clear.
Following are the common symptoms of Eczema:
Severe itching, particularly at night
Red to brownish-grey patches, on the hands, feet, ankles, wrists, neck, upper chest, eyelids, inside the bend of the elbows and knees
Small, raised bumps, which may ooze out fluid and crust over when scratched
Thickened, cracked, dry, scaly skin
Raw, sensitive, swollen skin from scratching
Complications Of Eczema
Neurodermatitis (lichen simplex chronicus) is one of the complications of eczema, which starts with a patch of itchy skin. Scratching this area can increase the intensity of itching, further resulting in affected skin to be discoloured, thick and leathery. Repeated scratching breaks the skin, which escalates the risk of infection from bacteria and viruses. Other complications include eye problems (itching around the eyes, watering of eye), irritant hand dermatitis, and allergic contact dermatitis. In some cases, eczema can precede asthma and hay fever.Additionally, eczema can result in sleep disturbance and behavioural problem.
Homeopathic Treatment For Eczema
Eczema is evidenced to respond to homeopathic treatment most favourably. Homeopathy not only removes eczema from its roots, it also prevents the possibility of recurrence — a worrying prospect of conventional treatment. Homeopathy avoids the use of external applications in treating eczema, or any other skin disease. It selects an appropriate remedy to treat the individual — keeping in mind their physical, mental and emotional states, family history, etc.
Self-Care Tips For Eczema
Moisturize your skin frequently.
Drink plenty of fluids and keep yourself hydrated.
Because temperature fluctuations trigger eczema, avoid sudden changes in temperature or humidity.
Do not use soaps, detergents or solvents that are harsh on the skin.
Keep your nails trimmed to avoid scratching.
Avoid excessive sweating because this may flare-up the rashes.
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