Eczema is a non-infectious, recurring skin condition that can affect both children and adults alike. Eczema is most common in people with a family history of an atopic disorder such as asthma or hay fever.
Atopic Eczema is the most common form of this uncomfortable skin condition. The skin becomes red and itchy and in severe cases may weep and bleed. In infants and toddlers the rash will usually appear on the face, knees or elbows. In older children it tends to affect the backs of hands, back of knees, ankles or inner elbows.
Although the exact cause of Eczema is not really known, it is thought that some of the contributing factors may be particular foods such as dairy, eggs, nuts, wheat products, seafood and chemical additives/preservatives that are found in so many of our foods these days. Stress may also be a factor. Allergens such as grass, pets, soaps, shampoo, cosmetics and toiletries can also cause irritation to Eczema sufferers.
Eczema is not a life threatening disease, however in severe cases is can affect sufferers’ daily quality of life.
There are many ways to reduce flare ups of Eczema such as:
• Have a lukewarm bath or shower and avoid really hot water as this
can irritate the skin.
•
Use non-soap cleanser or natural oil to bathe in and gently pat the skin dry,
don’t rub.
•
Change your bed linen on a regular basis to avoid dust mites.
•
Wear 100% cotton.
•
Apply moisturizer after your bath or shower.
•
Reduce stress as much as possible.
Do you have some tips for beating the itch of Eczema, or would you just like
to share your story. Email us click
here and we may publish it in upcoming
newsletters.