There are several different types of eczema, atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin disease characterized by itchy and inflamed skin. According to the NIH, health insurance companies pay out over $1 billion in medical care costs for eczema treatment every year.
Causes of Eczema
The specific cause of eczema is unknown, but according to the NIH, “the disease seems to result from a combination of genetic (hereditary) and environmental factors.” It appears that allergies and immune system disorders are associated with eczema, and that stress can cause eczema outbreaks in people who have inherited the tendency for the condition. Environmental irritants that can trigger or exacerbate outbreaks include dust, cigarette smoke, wool or synthetic clothing fibers, soaps, cosmetics, and household chemicals.
Infantile Eczema
According to the NIH, “Scientists estimate the 65 percent of patients develop symptoms in the first year of life, and a 90 percent develop symptoms before the age of five.” In other words, infant eczema is much more prevalent than adult-onset eczema. About 60 percent of those with baby eczema will continue to have symptoms of the condition into adulthood.
Eczema Treatments
A wide range of other mediations is also used to treat the condition, including antibiotics, antihistamines, and immuno-suppressants (to treat skin infections). Most commonly, corticosteroids are prescribed, either as a pill or a cream. This class of medications is problematic for a number of reasons, notably that long-term use can have life-threatening and serious side effects.
There is no known cure for eczema, and there are concerns about using standard medical treatments for children and infants. According to the NIH, the two goals of eczema treatment are preventing outbreaks and healing the skin.
Home Relief for Itching with Eczema
Those who suffer from hand eczema or a rash on other parts of the body can turn to a number of remedies, but a natural eczema treatment provides an inexpensive, safe alternative to prescription medications.
There are several different types of eczema, atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin disease characterized by itchy and inflamed skin. It appears that allergies and immune system disorders are associated with eczema, and that stress can cause eczema outbreaks in people who have inherited the tendency for the condition. In other words, infant eczema is much more prevalent than adult-onset eczema. According to the NIH, the two goals of eczema treatment are preventing outbreaks and healing the skin.
As an alternative to medications that are rife with side effects, there are all-natural eczema treatments on the market that can stop the itching, re-hydrate the skin, and promote healing. Eczema bath salts use natural essential oils with healing properties that also condition the skin, soothe itching, and stop oozing. Parents are embracing these natural treatments because they are not harmful to children, help to prevent the infections caused by scratching, and turn the nightmare of bath time into a welcome respite.
