Living with eczema can be a daily challenge, causing discomfort and frustration for many. Whether you’re dealing with occasional flare-ups or constant irritation, finding relief is likely at the top of your mind.
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that can cause extremely uncomfortable and painful symptoms, such as dry, itchy, and inflamed skin that often appears as red, scaly patches or rashes.
This chronic skin condition affects people of all ages and can vary in severity, with some experiencing mild symptoms and others dealing with more severe, persistent issues. While eczema can be stubborn, with the right approach, it’s possible to find significant relief and manage your symptoms effectively.
Atopic Eczema affects a significant portion of the population in the United Kingdom. According to recent studies, approximately 1 in 5 children and 1 in 10 adults in the UK suffer from eczema, making it one of the most common skin conditions in the country.
There is a strong link between eczema, allergies, and asthma, as many people with eczema also have other atopic conditions, such as food allergies, allergic rhinitis, or asthma. Eczema tends to run in families, so if you have a parent or sibling with eczema, asthma, or hay fever, you are more likely to develop the condition.
Eczema is a broad term that encompasses several different skin conditions, each with unique characteristics and triggers:
Everyday products such as soaps, detergents, shampoos, and disinfectants can irritate the skin and cause eczema to flare up. Even certain fabrics, like wool or synthetic materials, can be problematic.
Common seasonal allergies, including pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mould, can trigger eczema symptoms, as can certain foods and drinks, like dairy products, eggs, nuts, and soy.
Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can exacerbate eczema. Dry air, especially during winter, can lead to dry skin and flare-ups and sweating in hot weather can also trigger symptoms.
Emotional stress and anxiety are known to worsen eczema. The exact reason isn’t fully understood, but stress can impact the immune system and skin barrier function, leading to flare-ups.
Hormonal fluctuations, particularly in women, can trigger eczema. Many women experience worsening symptoms during pregnancy or their menstrual cycle.
Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can make eczema worse. Skin infections, in particular, may cause more severe symptoms and require medical treatment.
Physical activity that causes sweating can irritate the skin and lead to flare-ups.
Managing eczema involves a combination of medicines and lifestyle changes to alleviate symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
Topical corticosteroids are commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation and itching. These creams or ointments are applied directly to the affected areas. They come in various strengths, so it’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions to avoid potential side effects, such as thinning of the skin.
Betamethasone 0.1% Cream & Ointment is a potent corticosteroid that can effectively reduce inflammation in moderate to severe eczema cases. Eumovate Cream, which contains clobetasone butyrate, can be a good option for milder symptoms. In cases where there’s a risk of bacterial infection, your doctor might prescribe Fucibet Cream, which combines a corticosteroid with an antibiotic.
Allergy treatments such as antihistamines can help control itching, especially if it’s severe and disrupts sleep. These medications block histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms. Some antihistamines can cause drowsiness, so they are often taken at night.
Over-the-counter antihistamines like Benadryl (diphenhydramine) can be particularly effective for nighttime relief, as they often cause drowsiness. For daytime use, non-drowsy options such as Piriteze (cetirizine) can provide itch relief without causing sleepiness.
Emollients or moisturisers should be applied several times a day to keep the skin hydrated and to create a barrier against irritants. It’s important to look for products that are fragrance-free and designed for sensitive skin.
Aveeno Cream contains colloidal oatmeal and is particularly soothing for irritated skin. Another excellent choice is Cetraben Cream & Ointment, specifically formulated to relieve dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin. These products help maintain the skin’s moisture barrier and prevent dryness, which can trigger flare-ups. For those who prefer a lighter texture, E45 Itch Relief Cream provides effective moisturisation without feeling greasy.
Several over-the-counter (OTC) treatments for eczema are available. These include hydrocortisone creams, which include mild corticosteroids that can help reduce mild inflammation.
For daily maintenance, Dermol Cream not only moisturises but also has antimicrobial properties to help prevent skin infections. Diprobase Cream is another gentle, fragrance-free option suitable for everyday use, keeping skin hydrated and protected.
Specific treatments are available to soothe and manage scalp eczema symptoms. Betacap Scalp 0.1% Solution contains betamethasone, a corticosteroid that can effectively reduce inflammation and itching on the scalp. Another option is Betnovate Scalp Application, which is also effective for managing scalp eczema symptoms. For a milder treatment, Elocon Scalp Lotion can be used to soothe and treat affected areas.
In addition to medical treatments, some home remedies can provide relief from eczema symptoms:
Managing eczema can be challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Click2Pharmacy, we’re committed to helping you find the right solutions for your skin concerns, whether these are prescription medications or over-the-counter products.
Don’t let eczema control your life. Take the first step towards better skin health today by visiting our Eczema and Dermatitis Clinic and completing the assessment form. Our experts are here to support you on your journey to managing your eczema effectively.
