Initial
Treatment
The most common treatment of eczema, prescribed by a doctor,
will be an anti-inflammatory  ointmentcontaining
corticosteroids, for example, hydrocortisone cream. Patients
are directed to rub the ointment into the affected areas,
avoiding open wounds. If the case is more severe, it may
be suggested that the patient wrap the area in an occlusive
dressing to increase the effectiveness of the ointment.
However, long-term use of steroid creams can result in side
effects, such as thin, fragile, dry skin and even the suppression
of the adrenal glands. It is therefore suggested that these
medications are only used for short periods of time.
Help
with Itching
To aid in the reduction of itching caused by eczema, an
antihistamine may be recommended, for example Benadryl,
which contains diphenhydramine. These antihistamines can
cause sleepiness, although this may be helpful at night,
when the itching may stop the patient from sleeping restfully.
Extras
Burow's solution, a soothing powder, may be prescribed
if lesions are continually weeping. Also cold-tar cream
can contain the flaking and itching, but it can also irritate
skin, stain clothing and cause sensitivity to sunlight.
Dietary
Consideration
We are what we eat, and it has been generally accepted
that eating the wrong foods can exacerbate many allergies.
Very often allergies to wheat, cow's milk, citrus fruits,
eggs, shellfish and chocolate are related to eczema. You
can suspect a food allergy if you have continual craving
for that food, or eat it every day. An elimination diet
can be used to check for possible allergies.
Foods
high in potassium, Vitamin A or betacarotene should be
included in your diet. Lightly steamed carrots and leafy
greens such as kale and spinach are excellent choices.
One
tablespoon of olive oil, flaxseed oil or walnut oil should
be included in your daily diet to increase the moisture-holding
ability of your skin.
Help
from Nutritional Supplements
Many patients find nutritional supplements help with the
holistic treatment of an allergy or condition such as
eczema. Supplements can be introduced one at a time, the
reaction noted and then others introduced a week or so
after.
Multivitamin
and Minerals: a good multivitamin and mineral supplement
is where you should start. This ensures you are getting
the right amount of all the major vitamin and mineral
groups.
Betacarotene
and Vitamin A: These supplements promote tissue healing.
NOTE - Pregnant women, those intending
to be pregnant and patients with liver disease should
consult their doctor before taking Vitamin A.
Digestive
Enzymes: Taking pancreatic enzymes can enhance
digestion and rapidly improve the condition of skin.
Evening Primrose Oil:
This can be either taken orally or applied to affected
areas to reduce inflammation. You should not take this
supplement if you have a fever.
Mineral Ascorbate Vitamin C and
Bioflavonoids: These can be useful for eczema,
as they have mild anti-inflammatory properties. Vitamin
C helps with the formation of collagen, which is a repair
protein.
Vitamin
E: This is good for the skin and helps with
tissue healing. It can be taken orally, applied to affected
areas or both. Combination fatty acids are readily available
and the best way of moisturising the skin when taken internally.
NOTE - if you have high blood pressure
or are taking a blood-thinner (anticoagulant), then consult
your doctor before taking Vitamin E.
Selenium:
This helps the body use Vitamin E effectively
and aids in the healthy functioning of cell membranes.
Zinc:
This supplement promotes the healing of wounds.
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