What Causes Eczema?

Doctors do not know exactly what causes eczema. The most common type of eczema [ atopic dermatitis]  resembles an allergy. The skin irritation, which is more often seen in children rather than adults, is not an allergic reaction. Experts believe genetic, skin factors and environmental factors all play a role. The immune system may be involved, creating inflammation in the skin even when there is no infection to fight. Eczema is not contagious.

Eczema is not an allergic reaction. However  a large number of children who have eczema also have food allergies. That doesn’t mean that certain foods such as dairy, eggs, and nuts (which are common food allergy triggers in children with eczema) , cause it or make it worse. Before removing particular foods from your child’s diet, talk with your health care provider to be sure your child’s nutritional needs will be met.

Triggers in Eczema: A trigger is not something that causes eczema. But it can cause it to flare or make a flare worse. The most common triggers are substances that irritate the skin. For example wool or man-made fibers that come in contact with the skin, of many people with eczema, can trigger a flare.

Other things that can irritate the skin include:

  • soaps and cleansers
  • perfume
  • makeup
  • dust and sand
  • chlorine
  • solvents
  • irritants in the environment
  • cigarette smoke

Flares can also be triggered by certain conditions that have an effect on the immune system. Such as cold or flu, bacterial infection, allergic reaction to something such as mold, pollen, or pet dander, these can trigger or worsen  flares. Stress has also been identified as a possible trigger. Actions and environments that cause the skin to dry out or become  sensitive can trigger flares. Some examples are as follows.

  • prolonged exposure to water
  • being too hot or too cold
  • sweating and then becoming chilled
  • taking baths or showers that are too hot or last too long
  • not using a skin lubricant after a bath
  • low humidity in the winter
  • living in a climate that is dry year-round

There is no cure for eczema, but you can control it with treatments. Eczema generally occurs more often in winter, when the air is cold and dry. Eczema, is itchy and sometimes painful but  simple lifestyle changes can go a long way treating this condition. Here are  some tips that can help to keep your skin feeling  comfortable and soft.

  • Know what triggers your eczema .
  • Moisturize dry, itchy skin often.: One of the best ways to help keep eczema under control is to moisturize your skin.  especially after washing and bathing. Choose a plain, unscented moisturizer look for one that doesn’t contain additives or chemicals, which can irritate the skin.
  • Manage extreme temperatures at home: Control the hot conditions inside your home, air conditioning to keep cool. In cold weather, use a cool mist humidifier to help keep your skin from becoming too dry.
  • Don’t scratch eczema patches: Eczema is itchy. But scratching can actually make you itch more.
  •  Wear comfortable clothes that don’t irritate skin:  Cotton and cotton blend clothes are usually the best choices for people with eczema.
  • Keep sweating to a minimum to avoid eczema flare-ups: Getting overheated or sweating can cause eczema flare-ups.
  • Watch your stress level to avoid eczema flare-ups:  You are more likely to have a flare-up when you are experiencing stress.
  • Follow skin care basics in the shower or bath:
  • Protect your hands:
  • Use eczema medication when needed:
If  lifestyle changes alone do not help your eczema, talk with your doctor about the use of medication to help control your eczema symptoms. If you are currently on prescribed medication, use it as directed by your Doctor.

Read more on Understanding Eczema

More information about Eczema here.

Disclaimer

Natural Remedies Encyclopedia. by Vance Ferrell/ Harold M. Cherne

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