Eczema is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide, characterized by inflamed and itchy skin. While it can be uncomfortable and frustrating to live with, there are many treatment options available that can help alleviate symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
Seeking proper treatment for eczema can be a challenging process, as symptoms can vary from person to person and treatment effectiveness can depend on several factors. Fortunately, you can learn everything you need to know about eczema with a search online right now, which could help you spot early symptoms.
What is Eczema?
Eczema is a chronic condition that can be present for your entire life. While there is no known cure, with the right treatments and self-care, you can relieve symptoms and prevent flare-ups. Eczema can manifest in many forms, including hand eczema, nummular eczema, and most commonly, atopic dermatitis.
Symptoms of Eczema
Symptoms of eczema can vary from person to person, and can look different in infants, children, and adults. Infants under 2 years of age might experience rashes on the scalp or cheeks, or rashes that bubble up and cause extreme itching that interferes with sleep. Children ages 2 and up may have rashes in elbow creases, behind the knees, on the neck or wrists and ankles, or that become bumpy, change colors, harden and develop knots.
Adults (age 18 and older) may have rashes in the elbow creases or behind the knees, very dry skin, permanently itchy rashes, scaly rashes, or rashes that lead to skin infections.
One important detail to note about eczema symptoms is that they can appear and disappear. People typically experience eczema flare-ups, where symptoms worsen and become more obvious, followed by periods of time where there are no symptoms at all. It’s essential to track symptoms and how often flare-ups might be happening.
How Eczema is Treated
Although there isn’t a cure for eczema, you don’t have to resign yourself to living with its symptoms. There are many treatments available that you can try. The treatment goal is to prevent skin barrier and minimize outbreaks and flares, which starts with gentle skin care and topical treatments prescribed by your dermatologist.
For mild cases of eczema, you may be able to treat symptoms by adjusting your habits or trying natural remedies. For severe cases, you may need to try a combination of different treatments, and medicine may also be necessary.
Common treatments include:
- Taking short, warm showers
- Managing stress with relaxation techniques
- Using a humidifier
- Over-the-counter creams or ointments
- Prescription creams or ointments
- Antihistamines
- Oral steroids prescribed by a doctor
- Ultraviolet light therapy
- Prescription medication
- Injectable medications administered by a doctor
It’s important to discuss your symptoms, concerns, and unique case of eczema with your doctor. Together, you and your doctor can determine which treatments promise the most success for your symptoms and flare-ups. If you’re looking for ways to relieve your eczema symptoms, there are several over-the-counter and natural treatment options that you can research and discuss with your doctor.
Find Help Today
Eczema is a common condition that can cause discomfort and frustration, but it can be managed with proper treatment. Its symptoms can vary depending on age and the state of the skin, but flare-ups can be tracked, and treatment can be customized.
While there is no known cure, there are many treatment options, both natural and medicinal, that can be effective. Consult with your doctor to find the right treatment for your unique case of eczema.