Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition usually caused by allergies. It has been called "the itch that rashes" because the main symptom is intense itching. Itching leads to scratching, scratching damages the skin and causes a rash, the rash causes more itching which leads to more scratching which leads to more damage and so on. The damaged skin is susceptible to infection which continues the cycle of damage, itch, and rash.
The key to treating eczema is to control the itching. Triggers that can make your eczema symptoms worse are rough clothes, exposure to allergens (such as foods or dust mites), sweating, using irritating products (including soaps and lotions), local skin infections, or getting emotionally upset. There are several things you can do to control eczema symptoms:
Avoid rough or tight clothing. Washed, breathable soft cotton is best.
Wash new clothing several times before wearing.
Use plain soap powder (not enzyme detergents) when washing clothes and be sure to rinse well.
Avoid soap and baths as much as possible. Use soap substitutes.
Take quick showers or baths with only slightly warm water.
Pat dry (never rub) after bathing.
Apply a lubricating moisturizer after bathing while the skin is still damp. Apply a moisturizer several times a day to areas of the skin that are very dry.
Antihistamines are nearly always helpful to control the itching and should be taken on a regular daily basis. This is one place where a sedating antihistamine taken at bedtime can be helpful.
Topical corticosteroid creams or ointments applied to the areas of rash (as prescribed) will help control the rash and itching. These are also more effective if applied after washing while the skin is still moist. As the rash clears, decrease the use of cream. Potent steroids should never be applied to the face unless an allergist or dermatologist gives specific instructions. If you are not sure what your topical prescription is, ask an allergy doctor.
If the skin gets extremely red, or if pus appears, there may be an infection and you should see an allergy specialist immediately. If you do not clear the infection, your skin condition will not clear.
For additional information or a hives treatment plan, schedule an appointment with an Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center doctor.
