Eczema - Paste Flare-Ups

Eczema or atopic dermatitis is a relatively small chronic irritant to the skin that affects approximately 3% of the general population.

For eczema, there is a genetic hypersensitivity to certain substances or conditions - not an allergic reaction. These include excessive dryness of the skin, lots of sweating, fatigue and stress. People with eczema may develop hay fever, allergic asthma, or when they develop a cold sore, accompanied by a viral infection.

Eczema has different forms at specific stages of life. Each stage will have a cycle of sudden, mitigating and fading. Its duration varies from case to case. Some people have eczema throughout their lives, while others are arbitrarily ill.

The frequency of eczema in infants is three times that of adults - the condition is different. Dry red patches appear on the scalp, forehead, neck, arms, legs and groin. Tiny blisters may develop, open and ooze liquid, and then form a crust. These blisters are not common in older children with eczema. Their dry skin plaques may have small bumps that appear on the elbows, back of the knees, neck, wrists and face, especially the eyelids. The eye is a common part of adult eczema. Other areas affected by adult eczema include hands, arms and legs.

Although eczema cannot be cured, it can usually be prevented by triggering it, including extreme temperatures, stress, skin infections, excessive sweating and various allergens.

Infants who are exclusively breastfed for at least 6 months are less likely to develop eczema. Eggs and fish, a common cause, should not be given to babies until the age of one. In addition, protect your baby from allergens such as smoke, pet dander, mites, mold and pollen.

Older children and adults should keep the bathtub short and use only warm water. They are also recommended to use mild bar soap without antibacterial additives.

Make sure the air you live in and work with is wet - this may mean using a humidifier in winter. And avoiding the sun, winter or summer, may also help.

Stress management is equally important in preventing the onset of eczema. Exercise, meditation and yoga can all help reduce stress.

When eczema breaks out, special treatment is needed. Medical methods include ointments containing hydrocortisone. Other types of steroids can be applied to the point of failure or, in severe cases, can be applied internally. Antibiotics are sometimes used to eliminate bacteria and prevent secondary infections. [Bacteria may invade through scratches and tiny openings in the inflamed skin.]

Some alternative eczema treatments include:

• Shiatsu - Although it does not cure eczema, it can relieve tension that can cause sudden attacks.


• Herbs - Chinese foxglove and licorice are effective anti-inflammatory drugs; peony can strengthen the immune system; and evening primrose oil helps control itching.


• Bathing - Soak a cup of salt in a bucket of water to soothe the skin.

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Orignal From: Eczema - Paste Flare-Ups