Wellness with Dr. Rita

Eczema: Tips On How To Care For Your Skin

Eczema can best be described as a non-contagious skin condition, which is characterized by hot dry itchy skin, with symptoms that often fluctuate seasonally and even over the course of the day. Eczema typically begins in early childhood. Research indicates that eczema may be genetically determined and studies show there is often a family history of allergies, asthma, eczema or hay fever. Children who experience eczema may also suffer from asthma or hay fever as well.

Like an allergy, eczema tends to flair up when exposed to certain triggers, especially mechanical irritants, allergens, emotional stress, heat and sweating. When exposed to an offending situation, inflammation producing cells come to the surface of the skin and release chemicals, leaving the skin red, pealing and thickened. Sometimes tiny blisters form, rupture, weep and crust over.

Eczema most often appears in and around the creases of joints—particularly the arms and legs and around trunk of the body. For some, it emerges on their hands and the sloes of their feet. Sufferers also experience intense itching which makes them want to scratch it, causing additional damage that can lead to bleeding and infection.

Solvents, chemicals, detergents, bleach, woolen clothing, skin care products that contain alcohol and certain soaps or fragrances are all considered mechanical irritants that can cause burning, itching or redness to the skin and bring about a flair-up. While allergens, like food, pollens and pets, do not irritate the skin, they can also trigger a flair-up. The same holds true to emotional stress. Intense emotions such as anger and frustration can cause symptoms. Many individuals with eczema also do not tolerate extremely hot or cold temperatures. High humidity can cause increased sweating, while low humidity can dry the skin.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR WELLNESS

The key to controlling eczema is prevention. Avoid or reduce exposure to things that can irritate your skin such as household cleaners, detergents, certain soaps and wool clothing.

Use a moisturizer on your skin every day to help keep it soft and flexible.

Important, don’t scratch even if it itches! Scratching can further irritate the skin and can even cause the skin to break and crack, opening the door to infection.

Take the time to identify your triggers. This can help you to avoid or limit your exposure to the offending item even better. If you think a food item is causing your problems, talk to your doctor about getting an allergy test or try an elimination diet to help you identify the offending product.

Be sure to dry your hands completely after you wash them.

Wear gloves especially when your hands will be exposed to anything that can irritate them.

Learn to manage your stress through regular exercise, breathing techniques, biofeedback, meditation and yoga.

Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) has been shown to help reduce the inflammation, dryness and scaleness often associated with eczema. GLA can be found in evening primrose oil, borage oil and currant seed oil.

If your skin becomes infected, the herb Oregon grape has been used for hundreds of years to treat infections and a variety of skin problems.

Natures Sunshine’s Golden Salve is a blend of herbs, oils and beeswax that sooths and moisturizes rough, chafed, chapped skin.

A homeopathic remedy for eczema may help relieve the itching and irritation associated with eczema and dermatitis of the skin and scalp.

Naturopathic Physician, Dr. Rita Louise, Ph.D. is author of Avoiding the Cosmic 2x4 and The Power Within. It is her unique gift as a medical intuitive and clairvoyant that illuminates and enlivens her work. Let Dr. Louise help you bring health healing and wholeness back into your life. Medical Intuition & Energy Medicine Certification training classes are now forming. Call  972-475-3393 or visit www.soulhealer.com