Eczema is a condition that causes the skin to become dry, inflamed, and itchy. It can affect people of all ages and can occur anywhere on the body. One of the most troublesome symptoms of eczema is the itching. If you are experiencing eczema, finding ways to relieve the itching can greatly improve your quality of life. This article will discuss various methods and treatments that can help stop the itching associated with eczema.
Understanding Eczema and Its Causes
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that leads to red, itchy, and inflamed skin. The exact cause of eczema is not fully understood, but it is thought to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. People with eczema often have an overactive immune response to certain triggers like allergens, irritants, or stress. This causes inflammation in the skin, leading to the characteristic itching and dryness.
The condition can range from mild to severe and can flare up at different times. The itchiness often worsens during flare-ups, making it hard to resist scratching. Scratching can lead to further skin damage, infections, and more intense itching, creating a cycle that’s hard to break. Fortunately, there are various strategies to manage and reduce the itching.
Moisturizing the Skin Regularly
Keeping your skin moisturized is one of the most important steps in managing eczema. Dry skin tends to become more irritated, which can trigger itching. Using the right moisturizer helps to restore the skin’s natural barrier and prevent further dryness.
Choose Thick, Fragrance-Free Moisturizers
Look for emollient-rich creams or ointments that are free from fragrances or other harsh chemicals. These types of moisturizers can provide long-lasting hydration and help soothe irritated skin. Apply the moisturizer immediately after a bath or shower, while your skin is still damp. This helps lock in moisture.
Use Natural Oils
Natural oils such as coconut oil, olive oil, or sunflower seed oil can help soothe eczema-prone skin. These oils are rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, which support the skin’s natural barrier. They can also reduce inflammation and prevent dryness. Applying these oils after moisturizing can further enhance skin hydration.
Taking Lukewarm Baths
Bathing may seem counterintuitive for people with eczema, but the right type of bath can help soothe the skin. Long, hot showers or baths can actually make eczema worse by drying out the skin. Instead, try taking lukewarm baths to help hydrate and soothe your skin.
Add Oatmeal or Baking Soda to the Bath
Colloidal oatmeal (finely ground oatmeal) is known for its soothing properties. Adding it to a lukewarm bath can help reduce itching and inflammation. You can also use a small amount of baking soda in the bath to help neutralize the skin’s acidity and relieve itching.
Avoid Harsh Soaps
Choose mild, fragrance-free soaps that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Over-the-counter gentle cleansers like Cetaphil or Vanicream are great options for eczema-prone skin. After the bath, pat your skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing it, to prevent further irritation.
Applying Topical Treatments
There are several topical treatments available that can provide relief from eczema-related itching. These treatments help reduce inflammation and soothe the skin.
Hydrocortisone Cream
Hydrocortisone is a mild steroid cream that is often recommended for treating eczema. It helps reduce inflammation and itching. For mild flare-ups, you can use a 1% hydrocortisone cream that you can buy over-the-counter. For more severe flare-ups, your doctor may prescribe a stronger version.
Calcineurin Inhibitors
Calcineurin inhibitors, like tacrolimus or pimecrolimus, are non-steroidal creams that can be used for eczema treatment. These creams work by suppressing the immune response that causes inflammation and itching. They are often prescribed for sensitive areas such as the face and eyelids, where steroid use is limited.
Antihistamine Creams
Antihistamines, like diphenhydramine, can help block the chemicals in your body that cause itching. Topical antihistamine creams or lotions can be applied directly to the skin to reduce itching. However, these should only be used under the guidance of a doctor, as they may cause skin irritation in some people.
Managing Triggers
Identifying and avoiding triggers is an essential part of managing eczema and its associated itching. Eczema flare-ups can be triggered by a wide variety of factors, including environmental allergens, irritants, or lifestyle habits.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Fragrances
Many common household products, including soaps, laundry detergents, and cleaning products, can irritate the skin. Opt for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic versions of these products. Be sure to rinse your skin thoroughly after contact with these products.
Wear Soft, Breathable Fabrics
Certain fabrics, like wool and synthetic fibers, can irritate the skin and trigger eczema flare-ups. It’s best to wear loose-fitting, soft clothing made from cotton or other breathable fabrics. This will help prevent further irritation.
Manage Stress
Stress is a well-known trigger for eczema flare-ups. Learning how to manage stress through relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can help reduce the frequency of flare-ups. Maintaining a regular exercise routine can also help reduce stress and promote healthy skin.
Using Cold Compresses
When itching becomes unbearable, a cold compress can provide immediate relief. Cold temperatures can numb the skin and reduce the urge to scratch.
How to Apply a Cold Compress
To use a cold compress, wrap some ice cubes in a clean cloth or use a cold gel pack. Apply it gently to the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes at a time. Do not apply ice directly to the skin, as this can cause further irritation. You can repeat this process several times throughout the day to help manage itching.
Taking Oral Medications
For more severe cases of eczema, your doctor may recommend oral medications to help manage the condition. These medications can help reduce inflammation and control itching.
Oral Antihistamines
Oral antihistamines, such as loratadine (Claritin) or diphenhydramine (Benadryl), can help relieve itching. These medications block histamine, a chemical that is released during allergic reactions and causes itching. While antihistamines may help, they should be used with caution, as they can cause drowsiness.
Oral Steroids
For severe eczema flare-ups, your doctor may prescribe oral steroids, such as prednisone. Steroids can help reduce inflammation and calm down the immune system’s overreaction. However, they are typically prescribed only for short-term use due to their potential side effects.
Immunosuppressant Drugs
In cases where eczema does not respond to other treatments, your doctor may suggest oral immunosuppressant drugs. These medications work by suppressing the immune system, which reduces inflammation and itching. Examples include methotrexate or cyclosporine.
Considering Phototherapy
Phototherapy, or light therapy, is a treatment option for people with severe eczema that has not responded to other treatments. This method uses ultraviolet (UV) light to reduce inflammation and decrease the frequency of flare-ups.
How Phototherapy Works
In phototherapy, the patient is exposed to controlled doses of UV light, either UVA or UVB light, under the supervision of a healthcare professional. This treatment helps reduce the immune system’s overreaction and can provide relief from itching. It may take several sessions to notice improvements, but it can be an effective option for long-term eczema management.
When to See a Doctor
If your eczema is causing severe itching or not responding to over-the-counter treatments, it’s important to seek medical advice. A doctor or dermatologist can help identify underlying triggers, recommend more potent treatments, and provide personalized care plans.
Infection Warning
If the skin becomes infected due to scratching, you may notice increased redness, warmth, swelling, or pus. In this case, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible. You may require antibiotics to treat the infection and prevent further complications.
Conclusion
Eczema-related itching can be frustrating, but there are many effective ways to stop the itch and manage the condition. Moisturizing the skin, avoiding triggers, using topical treatments, and managing stress are all essential components of an effective eczema treatment plan. If necessary, oral medications, cold compresses, or even phototherapy can provide additional relief. By following these tips and seeking professional advice when needed, you can reduce itching and improve the overall health of your skin.
Related topics
