Eczema, in some cases also known as dermatitis, is a common and non-contagious skin condition. Its severity varies and it is characterised by patches of hot, itchy, scaly skin which may produce weeping blisters and a clear discharge. With repeated scratching skin can become raw and bleed; thickening or discolouration of the skin may also occur.

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Where does it appear?

Eczema affects males and females equally and can be found anywhere on the body; although in young children it is most likely to appear on the face, inside elbows and behind the knees. Most prevalent during childhood and puberty, studies indicate that eczema is on the increase: a report by the University of Bristol showed that one in three children have suffered from it by the time they are three and a half years old, which represents a trebling of cases since the 1970s.

What triggers it?

There is no specific single cause of eczema, though in some cases it is thought to be hereditary. Common triggers are:

  • Allergies
  • Stress
  • Food sensitivity
  • Side effects of drugs
  • Reactions to washing detergents, soap, bath additives and house mite dust droppings
  • Extreme weather conditions and central heating may also be contributing factors

How can it be treated?

With the correct treatment and management, the physical effects of eczema can be greatly reduced. A combined internal and external approach can work well, so attention should be paid to diet and supplementation as well as topical treatments. A range of treatments are available, of which emollients, antihistamines, topical steroids and wet wraps are the most widely used. As with any skin condition, a good place to begin is by trying to avoid potential stimulants (see 'What triggers it?')

Dietary supplements

Some sufferers find that supplements have a beneficial effect in the relief of itching and inflammation:

  • Taking anti-oxidants such as beta-carotene and vitamins C and E helps boost the immune system.
  • As well as being immune-boosting, the herb echinacea has proven anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties.
  • GLA is one of the most important essential fatty acids (EFAs) in the body and contributes significantly to the skin's health. However, it is believed that some eczema sufferers may not create sufficient GLA supplies of their own. Excellent sources of additional GLA are evening primrose oil and borage oil, however, only evening primrose oil supplements containing high levels of GLA are proven to be effective, try Efamol Pure Primrose Oil 500mg or 1000mg, or Epogam.
  • Many eczema sufferers have experienced a noticeable reduction in itchiness after taking 6x500mg of evening primrose oil or borage oil supplements daily for 6-8 weeks. For more information on excellent sources of supplements.

Complementary medicine

Studies have shown that specific combinations of Chinese herbs may significantly improve some types of eczema and psoriasis. When choosing a medical herbalist, find a reputable, well-qualified practitioner who is registered with one of the governing organisations (see 'Want to know more?'). It is advisable to tell your GP that you are going to try complementary medicine. Do not suddenly stop your prescribed treatment.

Skincare advice

A gentle, effective skincare routine is the first stage in minimising the discomfort of eczema:

  • Avoid using soap, perfumed shower gels or bubble baths (our Orange Flower Botanical Body Wash is a gentle alternative). You can also bathe using a mild, non-drying emollient lotion recommended by your pharmacist.
  • Apply an emollient frequently throughout the day; this not only keeps skin soft and supple, but also helps to disguise the appearance of flaking skin and can reduce severe chapping. Those with mild eczema often report good results from using our After-Shaving Moisturiser.
  • For those with mild to moderate eczema, the soreness and itching can be calmed with a 1% hydrocortisone cream or ointment (a short-term measure to be used under the direction of your GP or pharmacist).

Did you know?

Wet wrapping

Children whose eczema is difficult to control may be helped by wet wraps. This involves applying emollients to the skin along with topical steroids (if prescribed) to the patches of eczema; affected areas are then covered with two layers of bandages - one wet and the other dry. These are left on overnight or longer to reduce itching and can help to relieve associated sleepless nights. Wet wrapping can be time consuming to apply and carers must be taught how to do this by a dermatologically-trained nurse.

Keeping it clean

Vacuum bedrooms daily and dust with a damp cloth as house mite droppings can aggravate eczema. Regularly 'air dry' pillows and duvets, and vacuum mattresses monthly. Using a barrier between bedding and sleeper can also help and many sufferers report some improvement using Alprotec Anti-Allergy Bedcovers (see 'Want to know more?') As detergents are such a common irritant, clean bed linen, towels and clothes without them on a hot wash, or try a detergent formulated for sensitive skins.

Want to know more?

  • The National Eczema Society
    Hill House Highgate Hill
    London N19 5NA
    Helpline Tel: 0870 241 3604
    www.eczema.org Dedicated to the needs of people with eczema, dermatitis and sensitive skin, the organisation is an excellent source of support and information. A fact sheet specifically for teenagers is also now available.
  • Alprotec Allergy Technologies Ltd
    3 Millbrook Business Centre Floats Road
    Roundthorn Industrial Estate
    Manchester M23 9YJ
    Tel: 0161 998 1999
    Fax: 0161 946 1697
    www.allergy.uk.com Suppliers of Alprotec Anti-Allergy Bedcovers.
  • The Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine
    Office 5 1 Exeter Street
    Norwich NR2 4Q
    Tel: Tel:0160 362 3994
    Fax: 0160 366 7557
    www.rchm.co.uk This non-profit making organisation has an excellent website. A full list of registered practitioners in the UK can also be obtained by sending a S.A.E plus a cheque for £3.00.
  • Equazen
    31 St Petersburgh Place
    London W2 4LA
    Tel: 0870 241 5621
    Fax: 0207 243 7101
    www.equazen.com Highly recommended, this website details the Equazen range of nutritional supplements and includes a quick and easy self-check essential fatty acid deficiency quiz.
  • The National Institute of Medical Herbalists
    Elm House 54 Mary Arches Street
    Exeter EX4 3BA
    Tel: 0139 242 6022
    Fax: 0139 249 8963
    www.nimh.org.uk The UK's leading professional organisation for herbal medicine practitioners offering a free register of members either by telephoning, or a precise search can also be made on the website.

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