Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of chronic eczema. This skin condition requires continuous skin care to properly manage the symptoms of sensitive itchy skin. It is recommended to utilize a combination of therapies along with lifestyle modifications to avoid flare-ups.
An effective treatment approach for chronic eczema includes topical, oral and injected medications along with daily skin care and avoidance. When it comes to chronic seborrhea, it typically affects the scalp and managed with prescription shampoos.
Clinical treatment
Individuals who have the stubborn cases of reddened, dry, sensitive skin might require prescription treatment. Always bear in mind that eczema is linked with allergies, thus allergy shots and patch tests might be recommended by the doctor. The prescription corticosteroid injections or tablets might be given as well to minimize the itchiness.
If the previous measures fail, immunodulator medications might be utilized as the last resort. Phototherapy involving synthetic UVA/UVB light box can also be used under the supervision of a doctor. In addition, skin infections are managed with prescription antibiotics.
Over-the-counter treatment
The non-prescription treatments for eczema usually deal with the allergy symptoms and itchiness. The commonly used antihistamines such as cetirizine and loratidine are effective for ongoing relief from the allergy triggers. The over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can also help ease the skin itchiness momentarily.
Home remedies for chronic eczema
The vital home remedies in managing cases of chronic eczema include daily cleansing and moisturizing. Minimizing the amount of bacteria on the surface of the skin and maintaining proper moisture balance reduces the frequency of flare-ups. There are also skin care products that are specially formulated for sensitive skin without any perfumes or dyes. It is also recommended that the individual will have periodic bleach baths prepared with ½ cup bleach added to 40 gallons of water to eliminate any buildup of bacteria.
Once a flare-up occurs, the itchiness can be calmed using warm baths that are infused with colloidal oatmeal. The finely ground oatmeal works by soothing the sensitive, flaky skin. In between the baths, you can apply a cool moist compress to alleviate the pain and itchiness. Individuals who have seborrheic eczema must follow a home care program given by a dermatologist.
Lifestyle modifications
Observing daily skin care and avoiding the potential allergy triggers must be included in a healthy lifestyle for individuals who have eczema.
The common triggers for eczema include cleaning products, bubble bath as well as laundry soaps, cosmetic and even finger paints. It is vital to take note of the suspected substances after a flare-up to avoid them in the future.