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Natural Remedies For Eczema In Adults Can Help

By Ida Dorsey


While often thought of as a condition targeting infants, adult sufferers of eczema number in the millions. The signs of a flareup include skin redness and irritation, oozing and crusting, thick patches of epidermis, and changes in permanent pigmentation. The most prevalent type is called atopic eczema, which describes a form of the disease linked to allergic reaction. Natural remedies for eczema in adults offer help in relieving symptoms.

The affliction is actually a grouping of skin conditions, and there is usually no obvious primary cause. No positive or negative test can yet confirm a diagnosis. The word atopic is related to a particular kind of skin reaction, which may be most common with people who suffer from other allergic reactions such as asthma and hay fever. There is evidence linking the issue to irritants in the environment, but a simple cure does not yet exist.

Most children who experience the effects of this kind of rash outgrow it in time, but not all. Adult attacks can be triggered by disinfectants, common bath soaps, various foods, and even temperature extremes. Hormone output and stress levels also play a part, and various microbes take advantage of weakened defenses. Common medical treatments include immune suppressors, corticosteroids, and phototherapy.

The primary goal of any form of treatment is to stop the maddening itch, which is intense and causes scratching, irritation, broken skin, and infection. Physicians tailor specific countermeasures individually, because no two cases are identical. Patients are advised to take warm baths frequently, moisturize daily, and avoid irritating clothing. Room humidifiers may be helpful in decreasing skin dryness.

Because some of the medications commonly prescribed also can have unintended effects, many sufferers seek solutions that avoid using steroids or antibiotics. The problem is commonly linked to allergic reactions, and sufferers may benefit greatly from changes in daily diet. Some people take the radical step of eliminating all processed foods, and eat only whole, organically grown produce, while cutting down on red meat.

Many people who improve dietary intake experience less inflammation both internally and externally. An added, unintended benefit is weight loss without fanfare. Healthier eating can be combined with specific efforts to bolster the gut-based immune system by consuming fish oil or flax seeds, both of which raise essential fatty acid levels. Pro-biotic supplements also help regain digestive balance.

Managing daily stress without additional pharmaceuticals is also important. Aerobic exercise in any form, including walking, is very helpful in reducing tension and eliminating chronic anxiety, and encourages deeper breathing. Sleep habits are also important in helping the body recover from daily stress, while preparing for the next onslaught. In some cases acupuncture has proven helpful in reducing those levels.

Many topical creams and applications are made from natural ingredients such as coconut oil, aloe vera, essential plant oils derived from chamomile or lavender, and Vitamin E. Natural product outlets feature helpful body oils, and many patients rely on soaps that contain a small amount of lye, which eases redness and itching. When used in combination with prescribed medications, the outcome can be shorter and less frequent episodes.




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