Eczema is a common skin condition that makes the skin dry and itchy. Although there is no cure for this disease, the symptoms of eczema can be managed with proper treatment. To provide one with essential knowledge about the condition, some of the frequently asked questions about eczema and their answers have been given below.
Are symptoms of eczema visible?
Red, itchy spots or coin shaped rashes can appear anywhere on the body. The skin becomes dry and inflamed, scaly patches emerge along with raised bumps or blisters that can become thick, crack the skin, and in severe cases, even bleed.
What is eczema is also known as?
Eczema is also known as dermatitis. The various types of skin diseases associated with eczema include atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dermatitis herpetiformis, dyshidrotic eczema, follicular eczema, hand eczema, nummular eczema, seborrheic dermatitis.
How long does it take for symptoms of eczema to show up?
Depending on the type of eczema affecting the skin, the symptoms can either show up immediately, within a few minutes, or can take up to 3 weeks (after exposure to irritants or allergens) to emerge.
Is eczema is contagious?
Eczema is a non-communicable skin condition that does not spread from one person to another. It cannot be transferred as it is caused by genetic and environmental factors.
Is eczema considered a rare skin condition?
Eczema is relatively common and affects more than 25 million people each year in the country alone. Most of the cases have been reported among infants, babies, and young children are most affected.
Is stress is the sole cause of eczema?
Stress does not cause eczema but can worsen existing symptoms of eczema. There are many other factors that could cause eczema.
Natural remedies for eczema
Here are some common remedies used to treat eczema.
Aloe vera gel
Aloe vera gel is derived from the leaves of the aloe plant. People have used aloe vera gel for ages to treat a wide range of ailments, and one of the common uses of it is to help soothe eczema as it has antibacterial, antimicrobial and wound-healing properties.
The antibacterial and antimicrobial effects can help prevent skin infections, which are more likely to occur when a person has dry, cracked skin. People can buy aloe vera gel in stores and online as well, or they can purchase an aloe vera plant and use the gel directly from its leaves.
One should start with a small amount of gel to check for skin sensitivity as it can sometimes cause burning or stinging.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a popular remedy for many conditions, including skin disorders. The National Eczema Association (NEA) reports that apple cider vinegar may help with managing eczema. However, it is recommended to exercise caution as the vinegar’s acids can damage soft tissue.
As apple cider vinegar is highly acidic. As the skin is naturally acidic and people with eczema may have less acidic skin than others. This can weaken the skin’s defenses. However, applying diluted apple cider vinegar could help balance the skin’s acidity levels, but it can burn if it is not diluted.
Colloidal oatmeal
Colloidal oatmeal is made from oats that have been ground and boiled to extract skin-healing properties.
A study has reported that colloidal oatmeal lotion had antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, resulting in relief from skin dryness, scaling, roughness, itch intensity.
One can add powdered colloidal oatmeal to a warm bath and soak for a bit. One should ensure to choose a colloidal oatmeal product that has oats as the only ingredient and avoid those with additives or fragrances. People can also buy pure colloidal oatmeal from stores or online. Lotions and creams that contain colloidal oatmeal are also available.
