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By Dr. Roger Moore
August 10, 2015
Category: General Skin Care
Tags: skin care   Eczema   rash   reduce itch   itching  

 

The following are 7 suggestions to help reduce the annoying and uncomfortable itch of eczema.

 

  1. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!

Keeping your skin hydrated can be the key to reducing the itch caused by eczema. Applying a moisturizer helps lock in your skin’s own moisture. To get the most out of your moisturizer, apply it right after you get out of the shower or bath, pat dry leaving skin slightly damp and then apply the moisturizer. This will help lock in as much moisture as possible.

 

  1. Use a cream or ointment instead of lotion to moisturize.           

You may not realize that there is a distinct difference between lotions and creams. Lotions come in pump bottles and creams come in a tube that you squeeze or a tub that your dip out. Lotions are thinner in nature and are not as effective in trapping moisture as the thicker creams. Ointments can also be effective. Using petroleum jelly can be very moisturizing.

 

  1. Take an oatmeal bath.

A quick soak in a lukewarm oatmeal bath can help ease itching. You can purchase a pre-packaged oatmeal bath mix at your local drug store. Simply follow the directions on the label and soak for about 15 to 20 minutes. Then gently pat dry and apply moisturizer right away.

 

  1. Use a cold compress.

Place an ice pack inside a towel and hold it on to the itchy skin for a few minutes or as needed to help relieve itch.

 

  1. Wear comfortable fabrics.

Choose loose-fitting fabrics and comfortable fabrics such as organic cotton or cotton blends. Avoid coarse materials like wool and synthetic fabrics because they can be irritating to skin.

 

  1. Keep fingernails cut short.

Having long fingernails can make it hard to resist the itching. Keeping your fingernails cut short will reduce the desire to itch and also do less damage if you do itch. If you find yourself itching at night, try wearing cotton gloves to bed.

 

  1. Use over-the-counter medications.

Topical anti-inflammatory creams, such as hydrocortisone, can help reduce itch. Oral antihistamines, such as Claritin or Benadryl, can also be affective. If, however, your symptoms persist or worsen, be sure to see your dermatologist who can prescribe stronger treatments.

 

If you find that your eczema is not manageable, give our office a call. There are effective treatment options. Call us today at 574-522-0265 to schedule your appointment.

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By Dr. Roger Moore
August 03, 2015
Category: General Skin Care
Tags: skin care   Eczema   rash   itch   the rash that itches  

Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is intense inflammation of the skin that can lead skin to become dry, itchy red and irritated. It can be found anywhere on the body, but it most frequently appears on the hands, neck, back of the knees and inside of the elbows. The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but it is thought to be somewhat due to genetics or an imbalance in the immune system which causes release of inflammatory chemicals. It can affect anyone one at any age, but most commonly appears in childhood. It is possible to have eczema only once, but the majority of cases are chronic and characterized by intermittent flare ups throughout a person’s life.

Often, flare ups are caused by certain factors that trigger a reaction in the skin. The best form of prevention is to identify and remove triggers such as wind or allergy-producing fabrics. While there is no cure for eczema, the symptoms are treatable. For mild cases, over-the-counter topical creams and antihistamines can relieve itching. If symptoms do not improve, see your dermatologist to be evaluated and placed on the best course of treatment. Your dermatologist may prescribe steroid creams, oral steroids, antibiotic pills or antifungal creams. One important thing to remember is to not scratch your skin. Scratching thickens the skin and can lead to scarring. If the skin is broken, it can become susceptible to bacterial or viral infections. If you suspect infection or your skin is cracked and oozing, see your dermatologist as soon as possible.  

If you or someone you know suffers from eczema, call our office today at 574-522-0265 to schedule an appointment!

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