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What to Know About Eczema
Eczema is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition characterized by symptom flare-ups that include itchiness, rashes, dryness, blisters, and scaly patches. The causes of eczema are not fully understood.
There are several types of eczema, with atopic dermatitis being the most common. More than 31 million Americans have eczema, which can occur at any stage of life.
This article examines the types, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of eczema.
One in 10 Americans has atopic dermatitis, the most common type of eczema.
Eczema Flare-Ups
When your immune system responds to something unusual going on inside or outside of the body, it causes inflammation. Inflammation causes the itchy, painful symptoms of eczema. Different people react to different substances, experiences, and triggers. Some people may react to more than one thing.
What causes eczema flare-ups?
There are many causes, and they’re different for each person. These may include one or more of the following:
- Genes and family history
- Overreactive immune system
- Extremely dry skin
- Stress
- Environment — pollen from different blooming plants, cold and damp or hot and humid weather
- Allergens — substances that may cause allergic reactions, such as those in certain household or grooming products, and foods
Recent studies suggest that living near factories, major roadways, or wildfires can increase the risk of developing eczema. So can exposure to household materials such as paint, plastics , and cigarette smoke or synthetic fabrics such as spandex, nylon, and polyester.
Eczema triggers
Some people have flare-ups in response to specific things, such as:
- Pollen
- Rough or coarse fabrics or clothing (such as wool)
- Feeling too hot or cold
- Household products such as soap or detergent
- Dander from animal hair or fur
- Dust mites or mold
- Infections or colds (including skin infections)
- Stress
- Heat and sweat
- Cold and dry air
- Fragrances or tobacco smoke
- Irritating chemicals
- Certain foods (including peanuts, dairy, and eggs)
Eczema flare-up prevention
A few tips can help you prevent outbreaks or keep them from getting worse:
- Moisturize your skin often.
- Avoid sudden changes in temperature or humidity.
- Try not to sweat or get too hot. Keeping cool and keeping your home comfortable can reduce itching.
- Manage stress, and take time for yourself to relax.
- Get regularexercise. It can help control stress and boost circulation.
- Avoid scratchy materials such as wool.
- Don’t use harsh soaps, detergents, or solvents.
- Pay attention to foods that might trigger symptoms, and try to avoid them.
- Use a humidifier in rooms where you spend the most time.
- If your baby is more likely to have eczema because of family history, it’s best to breastfeed them exclusively for the first 3 months of life, or longer if possible. Doctors advise continuing breast milk for at least up to 6 months (preferably 1 year) as you introduce your baby to solid food. Babies should also be protected from potential allergens such as pet hair, mites, and molds.
Eczema Complications
Eczema can lead to skin infections from scratching or cracking. That can break down your skin’s barrier against bacteria and other germs. Complications with eczema can include some or all of the following:
Eczema can lead to many complications, but there are ways to manage your daily life and routine if you have the condition. These tips may help you avoid flare-ups and reduce costs.
Eczema diet
Since eczema is linked to allergens in food, there's no one specific diet you should stick to if you have eczema. But it's good to focus on anti-inflammatory foods that are less likely to lead to an allergic reaction. Foods that can often be inflammatory include:
- Red meat
- Processed meats (lunch meats, hot dogs, bacon)
- Fried foods
- Foods and drinks with added sugar
- Trans fats
- Refined carbs (white bread, pastries)
- Snack foods, such as cookies, chips, and crackers
It's also important to keep in mind that allergies are highly individual. I t may take time to learn your specific allergy triggers . Some foods, such as dairy, can cause inflammation even if you're not allergic, and you can eat them without troublesome symptoms. In time, you can find the right diet for you, whether it's paleo, Mediterranean, gluten-free, or something else.
It's also important to drink plenty of water. Water helps keep your skin from drying out, which can cause flare-ups.
Eczema and exercise
Some studies show that weight loss may contribute to reduced eczema symptoms. Since sweat from physical activity and exercise can cause flare-ups, try doing low-impact workouts and strength training. In addition to moisturizing before and after exercises, be sure to:
- Stay hydrated.
- Avoid hot weather.
- Wear cotton workout gear rather than synthetic fabrics, and choose loose clothing instead of tight ones.
- Take lukewarm or cool showers after workouts.