How do you manage Eczema?

Although there is no cure for Eczema, a lot can be done to prevent the condition and avoid flare-ups:

1. Good skin care: Regular sufferers of Eczema must establish a regular skin care routine. This includes regular bathing, using good quality soaps and detergents, and moisturizing the skin regularly. Do not take very hot and long baths as this dry the skin; a lukewarm bath is more effective in soothing the skin. Excessive drying and toweling can irritate the skin as can rough and coarse clothing. Stick to soft cotton clothes and towels. Use a good cream that contains petroleum jelly and stay away from lotions that can dry the skin. Avoid getting too hot or sweaty, and wear cotton gloves under plastic or vinyl gloves when using strong chemicals.

 
2. Try to reduce stress: Although stress cannot cause Eczema, those who already suffer from this condition find that stress often makes the condition worse. So it is important to recognize stressful conditions in your life and be better prepared to handle them. Meditation, deep breathing, yoga and even counseling can help in relieving symptoms of stress.

3. Avoid scratching: Although Eczema causes the skin to itch; too much scratching can harm the surface. Sometimes the patients get in the habit of scratching and start scratching when they are sitting idle or are under stress. This should be avoided as scratching too often can lead to a secondary bacterial infection at the site.

4. Awareness: Chronic Eczema sufferers should keep a detailed diary of what triggers of each episode of eczema. Over a period of time the patient is able to isolate the irritant or allergen that causes Eczema. Keeping the environment dust free and clean also reduces the symptoms. Always wear clean and soft cotton clothing. Keep away from strong soaps and lotions and switch to milder cosmetics.  

                                                                                   Books on Eczema