Hydrocortisone cream can ease the itchiness and inflammation, but doctors warned about its possible side effects.
All of us probably have a childhood memory of suffering from intense skin itchiness that often ended up getting irritation or worse, scars. This condition is called eczema.
The term "eczema" came from a Greek word which means "to boil over". True to its name, it does get too extreme sometimes that it feels like your skin is burning hot.
If you have a similar childhood memory, then that is not surprising. According to the National Eczema Association, there were at least 30 million Americans who suffered from it. It mostly affects the children but sometimes, even adults get it.
There are different types of eczema: atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, nummular eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and stasis dermatitis. All of them are characterized by red and scaly skin that often comes with itchiness.
While the triggers can be identified, the doctors still could not explain what causes it. But the researchers do know that genes and environment can trigger it.
Eczema is currently not curable, but it is manageable. Below is the list of things you can do to ease the itch.
1. Stay away from triggers
There is an old saying that says, "Prevention is better than a cure," and it is still quite true on eczema. Patients are advised to stay away from triggers. Irritants differ from patients to patients, but the most common are household cleaners like bleach and laundry soap, smoke, some fabrics, and even antibacterial ointments.
Patients can keep a small notebook with them to write whatever unknown triggers they just found out.
2. Relieve the itch with water
Soak a clean washcloth on cold water, wring out the excess water, and apply it to the affected areas. You can repeat it if possible.
You can also take a bath. However, use lukewarm water only and do not stay for too long, as it will dry your skin and make it itchier. Remember to use gentle cleanser only, and pat dry your skin afterward. Do not rub your towel as it will irritate your skin.
You can also add colloidal oatmeal on your bath to soothe your irritated skin. Then, rinse off with lukewarm water.
If this did not work, you can opt to "wet wrap therapy", which involves wrapping the affected areas with a damp cloth and covering it with another dry cloth to trap the moist. It can keep your skin hydrated for a long time.
3. Keep your skin hydrated
Aside from drinking sufficient water daily, you can also apply moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. You can choose a brand that has ceramides, a compound that can trap moistures. Apply immediately after taking a bath to trap the moist. Avoid using a moisturizer with fragrance as it is often irritating.
If chemical-based moisturizers irritate your skin, you can use natural instead. According to the National Eczema Association, coconut oil is a good option because it reduces the number of bacteria on your skin too. Use virgin or cold-pressed coconut oil once or twice a day on damp skin.
4. Over-the-counter medication
The most common OTC medication for eczema is Hydrocortisone, a topical cream that contains mild steroids. It works by reducing swelling, itching, and redness. However, health experts have warned about the possible side effects, including stinging, itchiness, and on rare occasions, severe allergy reaction. If symptoms persist, contact your doctor immediately.
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