Eczema is a skin condition which mostly occurs in children under the age of 5. However, it may occur in adults as well.  It is an inflammatory skin condition and a form of dermatitis.

Symptoms of Eczema

 The most common eczema symptoms include;

• Extremely itchy skin
• Boils & Blisters
• Redness
• Dry skin

Causes of Eczema

The exact cause of eczema remains largely unknown. It is believed that it may be initiated by genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors.

Treatment of Eczema

If you suspect eczema, you must consult a physician immediately. Treating eczema involves taking prescribed medication in addition to changing your routine which may be triggering eczema to begin with.  Here are some steps that need to be taken for the treatment of eczema;

• Don’t Over Bathe: Taking too many showers or soaking yourself for too long (especially in hot water) is one of main causes of eczema.  Over bathing leaves your skin dry and vulnerable to eczema.
• Limit Hot Water: This is because the hot water used for bathing, dehydrates your skin, as it washes away and hinders the production of the natural oils emitted by your body.
• Reduce Antibacterial Soap Usage: Most antibacterial soaps are very drying as they thoroughly wash your skin, including its oils. It is advised to use antibacterial soaps on strategic bodily areas; underarms, back, feet and neck.
• Moisturize: After showering, it is crucial that you lotion and moisturize your body with ointments that help lock in moisture.  Opt for petroleum based creams.
• Avoid allergens: Another main cause of eczema is allergens! These include pet dander, pollens, dust, perfumes, soap and several others.
• Act upon sweat: Sweat is another leading cause of eczema, especially in bodily areas where the skin folds. This includes areas near the joints and even underneath the breast. Those who are obese or have excessive weight will also be more prone to eczema, therefore it is advised to act upon sweat fast. Take a shower and moisturize yourself.
• Oral antihistamines:  Antihistamines may be prescribed to treat the itching.
• Corticosteroids:  Corticosteroid creams are an effective treatment to ease most of the symptoms of eczema.  Corticosteroids are not encouraged as they are believed to worsen the symptoms of eczema eventually.
• Topical immunosuppressants:   Two immunosuppressant’s; tacrolimus (Protopic) and pimecrolimus (Elidel) are also available to suppress the affected areas of the immune system.  However, The FDA had launched a warning that these topical creams may pose a possible risk of lymph node or skin cancer. 

Prevention of Eczema

Eczema prevention is similar to the treatment of eczema (minus the medications). Practice the following procedures to minimize your risk of being diagnosed with eczema;

• Moisturize frequently.
• Refrain from over bathing.
• Limit antibacterial soap use.
• Avoid showering with hot water.
• Avoid known allergens.