If you're suffering from eczema, you may be wondering how you can treat it. The good news is that there are a variety of effective eczema treatments available. Topical corticosteroids are a common treatment for eczema. They can be applied directly to the skin or taken in pill form, and they will help alleviate eczema symptoms. Topical corticosteroids can cause a mild stinging sensation, but they are often very effective.
Childhood eczema symptoms
The following atopic dermatitis symptoms are common in children age 2 and above:
rashes that appear behind the creases of elbows or knees
rashes that appear on the neck, wrists, ankles, and the crease between the buttocks and legs
bumpy rashes
rashes that can become lighter or darker
skin thickening, also known as lichenification, which can then develop into a permanent itch
Most people with the condition develop it before the age of 5 years. An estimated 60% of children will no longer show symptoms by adolescence.
African American and Hispanic children may have more severe eczema than children who are white.
Symptoms in adults
The following atopic dermatitis symptoms are common in adults:
rashes that are more scaly than those occurring in children
rashes that commonly appear in the creases of the elbows or knees or the nape of the neck
rashes that cover much of the body
very dry skin on the affected areas
rashes that are permanently itchy
skin infections
Adults who developed atopic dermatitis as children but no longer experience the condition may still have dry or easily irritated skin, hand eczema, and eczema on the eyelids.
The appearance of skin affected by atopic dermatitis will depend on how much a person scratches and whether the skin is infected. Scratching and rubbing can further irritate the skin, increase inflammation, and make the itching worse.
Some people opt for a wet wrap therapy, which works by rehydrating the skin. This method is recommended for severe eczema. This treatment involves wrapping the affected area in a wet layer of gauze and leaving it on for several hours. After this, the skin is patted dry with a clean towel. It is important to apply a moisturizing cream to the affected area.
A patch test can determine the specific triggers and eczema treatment. This type of allergy testing is done by an allergist who applies a small patch with different potential allergens to the patient's skin. By looking at the results, you can get an accurate diagnosis.
Home care
There are several things that people with eczema can do to support skin health and alleviate symptoms.
They can try:
taking lukewarm baths
applying moisturizer within 3 minutes of bathing to “lock in” moisture
moisturizing every day
wearing cotton and soft fabrics
avoiding rough, scratchy fibers and tight fitting clothing
using a humidifier in dry or cold weather
using a mild soap or a non-soap cleanser when washing
taking extra precautions to prevent eczema flares in winter
air drying or gently patting the skin dry with a towel, rather than rubbing the skin dry after bathing or taking a shower
where possible, avoiding rapid changes of temperature and activities that cause sweating
learning and avoiding individual eczema triggers
keeping fingernails short to prevent scratching from breaking the skin
People can also try various natural remedies for eczema, including aloe vera, coconut oil, and apple cider vinegar.
If you have a severe case of eczema, you should consult a dermatologist. After your consultation, your specialist can recommend an appropriate course of treatment. Ultimately, the duration of your treatment will depend on the severity of your condition and the level of your symptoms.
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