Dealing with Eczema

This article has been written and medically approved by Pharmacist Conor McSorley GPhC Reg No. 2223070

Affecting around 20% of children and 2-10% of adults, eczema is a very common dry skin condition that can be persistent or recurring. Red or darker patches may develop depending on your skin colour and areas of the skin can become swollen, crusty and itchy. Although it can develop later in life, eczema tends to present in childhood with no specific cause but generally thought to be affected by genes and things you come into contact with which irritate the skin.

If you suffer from eczema, it is common to also have other allergic conditions, such as asthma, hay fever or food allergies.

Eczema symptoms can range from mild to severe, with the majority of children having mild eczema which occasionally with flare-up to severe for periods of time. In some people, eczema may persist throughout their adult lives however, generally it does tend to fade away as the child reaches adolescence.

Treatment

While there is no direct cure for eczema it can generally be well controlled by many effective treatments which can alleviate itchiness and reduce swelling and dryness of the skin. The following can also help you manage your eczema.

Avoid triggers

• Irritants such as detergents, foods, smoke, pet hair, weather and stress may all have an impact on the severity of your eczema. Minimising your exposure to these triggers will help reduce symptoms.
  • Avoid using fabric conditioners and consider adding an extra rinse cycle when using a washing machine.
  • Synthetic garments and wool can trigger eczema, so try wearing clothes made of cotton.
  • Changes in temperature can also make eczema worse – avoid hot baths and dress appropriately for hot and cold environments.

Avoid general soap use

• Shower gels, shampoo, soap and bubble bath can all dry out the natural layer on the skin. Using specially designed soap substitutes such as emollients can help maintain hand hygiene while still maintaining that natural moisture.

Don’t scratch

• Although the natural reflex when you skin is itchy is to scratch it, this can often make the itchiness worse. Wherever possible avoid scratching your skin too hard with your fingernails and instead rub the area with the palm of your hand.

 Moisturisers

• All moisturisers are different so if one doesn’t work for you it doesn’t mean they all won’t. Keep trying out different moisturisers until you find the one which works for you. We have a range online and instore so come in and speak to a pharmacist or have a look at our range.

Flare-ups

• If you experience multiple flare-ups speak to a pharmacist or doctor about stepping up your treatment and how you can better manage the flare-ups.

When to seek medical advice?

• If your skin is severely impacting on sleep or social activities
• If it may look infected (Crusting, cracking, weeping and painful skin)
• If you develop a painful blistery rash
• If your eczema spreads over larger areas of the body (Chest, back or limbs)