Even though eczema is associated primarily with infants and children, there are millions of adult sufferers. A flareup is hard to hide, and can include crusty, oozing blisters, bright red patches of inflammation, changes in skin pigment, and surface thickening. Atopic eczema is the most common adult form, and has been linked to other allergic reactions. Natural remedies for eczema in adults help ease the symptoms.
There is more than one cause of eczema, which is actually considered a group of related conditions. Diagnosis involves symptom analysis, but there is no single test for confirmation. The word atopic refers to a type of reaction that commonly appears along with other allergic responses such as hay fever or asthma. Research indicates that outbreaks may be tied to environmental irritants, and there is no real cure, only control.
Most children who experience the effects of this kind of rash outgrow it in time, but not all. Adult attacks can be triggered by disinfectants, common bath soaps, various foods, and even temperature extremes. Hormone output and stress levels also play a part, and various microbes take advantage of weakened defenses. Common medical treatments include immune suppressors, corticosteroids, and phototherapy.
The primary goal of any form of treatment is to stop the maddening itch, which is intense and causes scratching, irritation, broken skin, and infection. Physicians tailor specific countermeasures individually, because no two cases are identical. Patients are advised to take warm baths frequently, moisturize daily, and avoid irritating clothing. Room humidifiers may be helpful in decreasing skin dryness.
Medications may have undesirable or unintended effects, causing some to avoid solutions involving antibiotic or steroid use. Since the problem is associated with allergies, some victims find that changes in diet are effective. Eliminating all processed forms of food helps rid the body of irritants. Consuming only organically grown produce that has not been exposed to pesticides is recommended.
Many people who improve dietary intake experience less inflammation both internally and externally. An added, unintended benefit is weight loss without fanfare. Healthier eating can be combined with specific efforts to bolster the gut-based immune system by consuming fish oil or flax seeds, both of which raise essential fatty acid levels. Pro-biotic supplements also help regain digestive balance.
It is also important to manage the effects of stress without taking additional pharmaceuticals. Any form of aerobic exercise, especially walking, reduces normal tensions and helps eliminate chronic symptoms of anxiety, as well as raising oxygen levels. Getting adequate sleep helps the body eliminate the effects of daily stress, and helps build defenses. Acupuncture also reduce stress levels.
Many topical creams and applications are made from natural ingredients such as coconut oil, aloe vera, essential plant oils derived from chamomile or lavender, and Vitamin E. Natural product outlets feature helpful body oils, and many patients rely on soaps that contain a small amount of lye, which eases redness and itching. When used in combination with prescribed medications, the outcome can be shorter and less frequent episodes.
There is more than one cause of eczema, which is actually considered a group of related conditions. Diagnosis involves symptom analysis, but there is no single test for confirmation. The word atopic refers to a type of reaction that commonly appears along with other allergic responses such as hay fever or asthma. Research indicates that outbreaks may be tied to environmental irritants, and there is no real cure, only control.
Most children who experience the effects of this kind of rash outgrow it in time, but not all. Adult attacks can be triggered by disinfectants, common bath soaps, various foods, and even temperature extremes. Hormone output and stress levels also play a part, and various microbes take advantage of weakened defenses. Common medical treatments include immune suppressors, corticosteroids, and phototherapy.
The primary goal of any form of treatment is to stop the maddening itch, which is intense and causes scratching, irritation, broken skin, and infection. Physicians tailor specific countermeasures individually, because no two cases are identical. Patients are advised to take warm baths frequently, moisturize daily, and avoid irritating clothing. Room humidifiers may be helpful in decreasing skin dryness.
Medications may have undesirable or unintended effects, causing some to avoid solutions involving antibiotic or steroid use. Since the problem is associated with allergies, some victims find that changes in diet are effective. Eliminating all processed forms of food helps rid the body of irritants. Consuming only organically grown produce that has not been exposed to pesticides is recommended.
Many people who improve dietary intake experience less inflammation both internally and externally. An added, unintended benefit is weight loss without fanfare. Healthier eating can be combined with specific efforts to bolster the gut-based immune system by consuming fish oil or flax seeds, both of which raise essential fatty acid levels. Pro-biotic supplements also help regain digestive balance.
It is also important to manage the effects of stress without taking additional pharmaceuticals. Any form of aerobic exercise, especially walking, reduces normal tensions and helps eliminate chronic symptoms of anxiety, as well as raising oxygen levels. Getting adequate sleep helps the body eliminate the effects of daily stress, and helps build defenses. Acupuncture also reduce stress levels.
Many topical creams and applications are made from natural ingredients such as coconut oil, aloe vera, essential plant oils derived from chamomile or lavender, and Vitamin E. Natural product outlets feature helpful body oils, and many patients rely on soaps that contain a small amount of lye, which eases redness and itching. When used in combination with prescribed medications, the outcome can be shorter and less frequent episodes.
