Atopic Eczema and its symptoms
Eczema is a very itchy skin condition characterised by dry, inflamed skin. There are different types of eczema but the most common is Atopic Eczema found in people prone to allergies.

The skin
Thefunction of normal healthy skin is to create a barrier between theinside of the body and the outside environment. This is importantbecause it prevents the body fluids from leaking out, and prevents thebody from absorbing fluids (i.e. from the bath). It allows us to beaware of heat and cold, and of anything that might be a danger to theskin. It helps to regulate the body’s temperature through sweating orshivering and at the same time is one of the organs involved indetoxification. When the skin is affected by eczema the barrier betweenoutside and inside is broken which means that substances that might nototherwise have affected the skin may now cause problems.

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What triggers or exacerbates eczema?
It can be difficult to determine what actually causes eczema though research has shown that:

• certain foods may cause reactions, particularly in young children due to the intestines being excessively permeable to intact and undigested proteins. Any food can cause a problem but the most common offenders are milk, wheat, eggs and food colourings

• furry animals and airborne particles such as house dust mites, pollen and moulds can cause a reaction through contact with the skin

• bacteria, yeasts, microorganisms and viruses can all cause a problem to already damaged skin

Avoidance and treatment
Treatment must always be tailored to the individual sufferer but will normally include:

• removing known irritants and allergens

• using dust mite proof bedding to protect from the dust mite allergen

• using an air purifier to remove airborne irritants

• using a water filter to remove chlorine in drinking water and a water filter, shower filter or bath dechlorinator to remove chlorine from bathing water

• regular bathing (making sure the bath water is not too hot) to keep the skin clean and free of infection. This helps to remove dry skin scales and caked on blood

• using bath oils and emulsifiers, preferably natural or organically based without parabens and synthetic fragrances. These help to rehydrate the skin and protect the body from irritants

• bandaging and wet wraps

• wearing cotton clothes, preferably organic or without extra treatments and using untreated or organic cotton bedding

• wearing cotton gloves to protect sore hands

• avoiding the use of harsh chemicals in the home

• avoiding getting overheated both during the day and at night

By considering and eliminating any of the substances that may aggravate broken skin, you can help reduce inflammation. It is important to realise that these substances may or may not be the cause of eczema but eliminating them may help to alleviate at least some of the symptoms. When eczema is severe, hospital admission may be necessary with complete medical treatment to stabilise the condition. Steroids are usually administered both topically and orally. Though these are effective, prolonged use may result in side effects. We recommend a wholistic approach with possible lifestyle changes, looking carefully at products used, diet and nutrition in general.

References: Eczema in Childhood, The Facts, David J Atherton

Disclaimer: Information included on this page is intended for information purposes only and is not to be used as a substitute for consultation with a medical practitioner.

Our Eczema: Information pages are also full of helpful tips to help you deal with your eczema skin condition.

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