What is eczema?
Eczema is a skin condition caused by inflammation that causes dry, red, itchy skin. Usually, the chronic condition affects children, and they grow out of it by the time they reach adulthood.
Genetic factors and an overactive immune system contribute to eczema. Some people are born with extra sensitive skin. Some researchers also theorize that a skin barrier defect allows moisture to escape from the skin and germs to enter.
What can I do to prevent eczema flare-ups?
One of the best ways to prevent eczema is to moderate the factors that cause flare-ups. These include:
- Stress
- Exposure to irritating materials or substances
- Sweat
- Cold, dry environments
Keeping stress to a minimum helps lower your immune response. Take breaks when you need to, make sure you get enough sleep, and practice stress-relieving exercises to reduce that inflammatory response.
If you think a specific hand soap or detergent might be causing your eczema, try using a milder soap to see if that helps. If a substance at your job causes skin irritation, try using gloves and minimizing your exposure.
Wear breathable clothing in the summer and keep your skin moisturized in the winter. Long, hot showers also deplete the skin of moisture, so try to shorten your shower and use lukewarm water. Humidifiers and proper hydration help keep your skin replenished from inside out.
If nothing else helps, try hydrocortisone and anti-itch creams to reduce inflammation. Then, make an appointment to see Dr. Glover for medical intervention.
How do you treat eczema?
If you haven’t identified your triggers, Dr. Glover first helps you determine what makes your eczema worse and how to help you address the condition at home.
For those with severe eczema, your doctor may prescribe ointments and medication to ease your irritated skin. The most common medications for eczema include:
- Hydrocortisone cream
- Oral antihistamines
- Corticosteroids
- UV light therapy
- Immune system drugs
- Injectable anti-inflammatories
- Prescription moisturizer
If you’re having trouble with dry, itchy skin, contact Dr. Glover at Outer Banks Dermatology for an eczema consultation. Call the office or use the convenient online scheduler to plan your appointment today.
