Friday, June 11, 2010

What Causes Eczema and Methods to Prevent the Itching

Red, irritated and itchy blotches on the skin could be eczema. It is a skin condition that affects men, women and children. The symptoms include cracking skin, blisters and itching to name a few. Extreme cases can be embarrassing and painful for many. Though there are no cures to completely rid the body of eczema, there are treatments and tips to avoid occurrences. Some are as simple as changing the fabric clothes are made from or using herbal remedies for ease of symptoms.

The cause could be due to a number of reasons such as genetics or environmental. When it is genetic it is most likely another family member also was diagnoses with the condition. If the environment is causing the irritation avoided harsh soaps in bathing and for laundry, certain chemicals found in household products, clothing material and the weather could all play a part in the initial or proceeding symptoms.

There are no permanent cures for eczema there is, however, things that can be done to avoid it. The first place to start would be with a change in lifestyle. Various changes may be beneficial with not all being what works for you so there may be a few steps to go through before finding the exact cause. When someone becomes embarrassed about others seeing the infected area they will often times try to hide the spots with clothing, this will only increase the itching and more lesions.

Sweating due to the body becoming overheated could introduce the itching which will result in lesions appearing and scratching will cause them to spread in patches. Keep the air in your home fairly cool especially during the summer months also a dehumidifier helps many while sleeping. To avoid becoming overheated during exercise, try to do workouts in the morning before the heat gets to high outside.

Your clothing should fit loose and be made with a cotton material for the most comfort. Tight fitting clothes or those made from wool or other rough materials could cause the skin to itch. When doing laundry it often helps to run the load through a second rinse cycle to make sure there is no laundry detergent remaining in the clothes.

Scratching will only increase the lesions and lead to more itching so attempt to keep fingernails cut short, it helps to avoid scratching. Also some find relief by wearing a light weight pair of cotton gloves to sleep at night as to avoid scratching while asleep. When the itch becomes frustrating a cold compress applied to the area may be beneficial in preventing it.

When an individual is stressed there are excessive hormones released that could irate the skin. Try to remain healthy and stress free if possible. Many health food stores sell herbs that will help combat stress in a natural way.

Those dealing with eczema often times find it difficult to get under control. If you have attempted to change daily items used to those of a more natural made substance and continue to have discomfort, as well as for severe cases or if changing products does not prove to be beneficial, visiting a dermatologist will help. They can provide informational regarding preventative measures and effective treatments.

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