Eczema is a common skin disorder that is characterized by red itchy patches on the skin. It affects people of all ages and all races. It is generally a chronic condition that comes and goes over time, although some children grow out of it. There are many potential causes for eczema, so it can be difficult to pinpoint an exact cause for any particular person. It appears to have a genetic link, as it is found more often in patients that have other family members with the condition. A family history of asthma or hay fever also makes a person more susceptible to developing eczema.
While eczema cannot be cured, it can be managed. This is made easier when the patient understands the underlying causes of their condition. As the base of it all, it appears to be a type of allergic reaction, possibly influenced by abnormal activity within the immune system. It is also suggested that there are protein differences in the skin of people with eczema, which make the epidermal layer more susceptible to the condition. While the exact mechanism of the eczema may not be entirely clear, there are many obvious contributors to this condition:
- Perfumes and Dyes – Synthetic fragrances and colors are found in many grooming, cosmetic, and even food products. While they may not directly cause the eczema, they are able to exacerbate the symptoms in many people. Avoid highly scented detergents, perfumes, chemical dyes, and other similar products.
- Extreme Environmental Conditions – Both extremely hot and cold temperatures can cause eczema to flare up in susceptible people. Whether it is caused by the weather, or by air conditioning or heating, the result is the same. In addition, humidity and dry air can also present problems.
- Irritating Materials – In order to reduce irritation caused by clothing and other materials that contact the skin, consider using natural and soft materials. Itchy fabrics like wool or burlap can create problems in those with eczema. Opt for loose cotton clothing to minimize flare-ups related to physical irritation of the skin.
- Allergens – There are a number of common allergens that can cause the symptoms of eczema to worsen. Mould, dust mites, and pet dander can all cause allergic reactions that can result in increased inflammation in problem spots on the skin related to eczema.
- Diet – In some cases, the eczema may be worsened by intolerances to particular foods within the diet. Common problem foods include dairy, wheat, and eggs, among others. In order to rule out the possibility of a diet-related condition, talk to a registered nutritionist or look into get a patch test for food-related allergies.
- Stress – Emotional stress is a well-known cause of eczema flare-ups. Anger, anxiety, and depression can all change the chemical makeup of the body, and increase inflammation in eczema sufferers. Getting control of your emotions and managing stress in a healthy manner go a long way towards decreasing the incidence of eczema flare-ups.
Eczema can be an annoying and sometimes unsightly skin disorder, but with knowledge of the major causes and proper management, it can largely be controlled. The symptoms tend to come and go over long periods of time, but the worst flare-ups can usually be avoided with a few simple lifestyle changes. For additional treatments, you can consult a medical professional. There are many creams, oral medications, and procedures available to help you manage the condition even better.