Over 30 million Americans have eczema, a term used to describe a group of conditions which causes itching, redness, and inflammation of the skin. The disorder can be particularly challenging as flare-ups can occur on a regular basis and can be attributed to many factors including environmental exposure, stress, and allergies. While eczema is not contagious, treatment is necessary to reduce symptoms and discomfort, which can range from mild to severe. There are several popular treatments available for those suffering from eczema to find relief. Treatments range from natural remedies, over-the-counter medications, and prescriptions. Knowing which treatment methods are available can help those with eczema promptly address flare-ups when they occur and minimize any adverse effects. Here are a few treatment ideas to try if you or a loved one is struggling with eczema.
Over-the-Counter Medications for Eczema
There are many over-the-counter medications that can aid in relief for mild to moderate eczema symptoms. The overall goal of treatment for eczema is to reduce the itching and inflammation and provide a protective moisture barrier to the skin allowing it to heal while preventing infections. Most physicians will recommend using an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream as the first line of treatment and protection for eczema sufferers.
Hydrocortisone is a mild version of a corticosteroid, a medication generally prescribed to treat inflammation and itching of the skin. There are many versions in varying strengths of hydrocortisone cream that can be purchased over-the-counter. Those who have not used hydrocortisone cream before should start with the lowest percentage of 0.5 percent to see if symptoms are reduced or alleviated. If symptoms continue a higher percentage can be purchased over-the-counter, up to 1 percent. If symptoms are not alleviated after using 1 percent hydrocortisone cream, a prescription in a stronger strength may be needed.
Natural Remedies for Eczema
Along with over-the-counter medications, there are several natural remedies that aid in relief and provide healing for eczema-affected skin. Aloe vera gel is one such eczema cure. Studies indicate that aloe vera has both antibacterial and antimicrobial properties and it helps to boost the immune system and promote healing. This makes it the perfect natural remedy for eczema as it will not only soothe the skin but also provide infection protection and speed the skins recovery process.
Aloe vera gel can be purchased in many stores. The gel can be applied directly to affected skin several times a day. It should be noted that many aloe vera gel products have alcohol as an ingredient, which can dry the skin and make eczema worse. Those using aloe vera gel should make sure to read the ingredients thoroughly so as to not exacerbate the condition. To avoid potential exposure to alcohol, those with eczema can instead cut a piece of aloe vera from an aloe vera plant and apply the gel from the plant to the affected area.
Another natural eczema treatment method is colloidal oatmeal. Oatmeal has soothing properties and aids in providing moisture to dry, cracked skin. Colloidal oatmeal is oatmeal which has been ground to a fine powder, which can then be made into a paste or mask and applied directly to the skin or combined with the warm bath water for a soothing soak. Those with eczema in easy to reach places, such as the hands or face, may find it easier and more beneficial to use colloidal oatmeal in paste form by mixing one tablespoon of colloidal oatmeal with one to two tablespoons or yogurt or milk (dairy or nondairy is fine) and a tablespoon of honey and then applying directly to the affected area. Those with eczema in hard to reach or multiple places on the body can max one to two cups of colloidal oatmeal into a warm (not hot) bath and soak for at least 20 minutes.
Coconut oil is another hydrating natural remedy for eczema. Outside of its natural moisturizing properties, studies indicate that coconut oil also works as an anti-inflammatory and antibiotic. It is also soft on the skin which decreases the likelihood of already irritated skin becoming further irritated. Coconut oil can be applied directly to the skin during flareups as well as in between flareups as a prevention method. It is used similar to lotion, but for those with eczema of the scalp, it can also be used as a conditioner by applying the oil to the scalp, gently massaging, leaving in for a few minutes and then rinsing clean with warm water.
Prescription Medications and Medical Interventions for Eczema
For those with severe eczema, over-the-counter medications and natural remedies may stop a little short of giving full relief. When this happens, physicians may prescribe a stronger prescription medication. Corticosteroids are the most commonly prescribed medication for eczema treatment. They help reduce inflammation and pain related to eczema and often come in the form of a cream. However, corticosteroids can also be prescribed in liquid or pill form and can be given through injections. Corticosteroids are generally only given for a short time and are not considered a long term or ongoing treatment method.
Immuno suppressants are another form of prescription medication for eczema treatment for those with moderate to severe eczema and include cyclosporine, methotrexate and mycophenolate mofetil. These medications work by decreasing the immune system response, healing active eczema and preventing or reducing eczema flareups. Immunosuppressants are prescribed in liquid, injection and pill form and are designed to be taken for a short period of time.
Phototherapy for Eczema Relief
Studies indicate that those with moderate to severe eczema can find relief by treating the skin to low dose ultraviolet light. UV rays work similar to immunosuppressants by limiting the immune system response. There are two different types of phototherapy which are beneficial for eczema. The first is UV light therapy which is performed in the office of a dermatologist. Affected skin is exposed to either low dose UVA or UVB light rays or a combination of the two, two to five times per week until symptoms dissipate. PUVA therapy involves taking a prescription medication (psoralen) which naturally causes the skin to become more sensitive for UVA light. PUVA therapy will only be considered a treatment options for those whose eczema has not responded to UV light therapy.
Living with eczema can be a struggle, both physically and emotionally. Understanding the current treatments available can help those with eczema overcome their symptoms. It is important to understand that it may take several tries using several different treatments before full relief is found and that not every treatment works the same for everyone. Those struggling with mild cases of eczema often will find great relief in over the counter medications and natural remedies, while those with more severe cases may need to try a combination of several different types. The best thing to do is talk to a physician regarding eczema concerns in order to find the right treatment and possible eczema cure for each individual case.