Do you have dry, itchy or
scaly skin? Then you may be suffering from eczema, pronounced EK-zeh-ma.
Eczema is a group of skin conditions that can cause your skin to be itchy, red,
dry, scaly or inflamed. If you have exogenous eczema, you have most likely
come in contact with a chemical or substance that has inflamed your skin.
If you have atopic eczema (endogenous eczema), then it may be inherited or
caused by an environmental or food allergy.
Atopic eczema is the most
common form of eczema. It can be caused by food allergies or allergies to
pet dander, rough fabrics, dust, pollen or mold. Some people who have
eczema may have asthma or hay fever as well. Some inexpensive costume
jewelry will cause irritation in sensitive areas such as on the earlobes, neck
or wrists.
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Contact eczema, or
exogenous eczema, is caused by something that has touched your skin and
irritated it. Some sufferers receive it from chemicals they are exposed to
on the job, such as beauticians or lab workers. If you are one of these,
be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from exposure to these chemicals.
If you normally don't suffer from eczema and experience a breakout, immediately
stop any new soaps, shampoos or other products you have come in contact with.
You may also be reacting to a new blanket, couch or carpet.
There are many triggers for
atopic eczema. If you have
food allergies or
environmental allergies, avoid these completely. Be sure to see your
doctor, who will be able to help you manage your allergies. Stress can
also trigger eczema, so do everything you can to remain calm, including allowing
yourself daily breaks from your normal routine. Exercise will also help
you to remain relaxed, healthy and stress-free.
Hospitalization is
sometimes necessary for the most severe cases of eczema. During the
hospital stay, the affected skin will be wrapped in bandages that have been
soaked with a diluted potassium permanganate solution.
If you suffer from eczema,
be sure to avoid exposure to water for long periods of time. Water will
dry out your skin and make your eczema worse. Cotton clothes are a better
choice than rougher fabrics, which will irritate your skin. Be sure to
moisturize your skin with hypoallergenic lotion or petroleum jelly. If you
are itching, do everything you can not to scratch, which will make matters
worse. Finally, try to keep your body at a normal temperature, avoiding
sudden changes in temperature. And always use any
medications your doctor has prescribed.
