Feeling itchy is unpleasant, and it’s a feeling eczema sufferers are all too familiar with. The condition can feel quite miserable due to the redness and irritation it brings. There are many ways that you can treat this though. Read further for the help you seek.
If you have been prescribed medicine for your eczema, take it as directed. When all else fails, your doctor may be able to help ease your symptoms by prescribing you something a little stronger than what you can get over the counter. While no one really wants to rely on medication, sometimes it is necessary.
Those who have eczema should not use a washcloth or body sponge when they are taking a bath or a shower. If you wash your body with such rough-surfaced items, the friction will irritate your skin. Skin irritation can lead to a flare-up of your eczema. To clean your body, simply use your hands to lather up.
Resist the urge to scratch. Scratching will only intensify that itchy feeling. It can also cause harm to your skin, including infection. Find other ways to relieve that itch. Use moisturizers, medications, cold compresses, and long soaks in the tub instead. These methods relieve your itch and make you feel better.
Avoid becoming overheated. Excess sweat can trigger eczema flare-ups. If you do work out, take a shower afterwards. In fact, shower after any bout of strenuous activity, which could include things like gardening or heavy housework. Keeping your skin clean will help to keep you comfortable and your eczema flare-ups at bay.
Take a bath instead of a shower to reduce eczema. The water needs to be tepid. Sprinkle some colloidal oatmeal or baking soda in your bath. This helps soothe the skin. You can also try half a cup of bleach in a forty gallon bath. This can be helpful in eliminating bacteria that affects the skin.
Speak with your doctor about your eczema if changing your lifestyle isn’t enough. They may be able to help you find a medication that helps ease the symptoms. These medications can be over-the-counter antihistamines or creams. More serious cases may require a prescription medication. Make sure that whatever they suggest or give you is used as directed.
People that have eczema are prone to skin infections. When the skin is irritated, sometimes its surface cracks and gaps are formed. Germs can envade the skin through these gaps and cause an infection. To reduce this risk, use a mild, non-drying cleanser on your skin to remove dirt, bacteria, and other foreign matter. Gently apply the cleanser with your fingertips and rinse it off with tepid water.
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! Moisturized skin won’t crack because it stays soft. Use unscented moisturizer or petroleum jelly, which contain limited ingredients. Chemicals can lead to flare ups, so choose a natural moisturizer.
Many people allow eczema to control their lives. Itchy, irritated skin has a negative effect on all areas of life. If eczema plagues you then utilize some of the ideas from this article.