At its most basic level, eczema is a word that means dermatitis. It's a type of skin inflammation and there are several variants of this condition. The most common variation is atopic eczema. At Regeneris Medical, we believe nobody should have to suffer with constant itchy, burning skin. That's why today, we're answering commonly asked questions about eczema treatment.
Eczema Treatment FAQs
Is a Long, Hot Shower Beneficial?
You may know that proper personal hygiene can improve eczema symptoms. What's not so well known is that water is one of the best forms of eczema therapy when used properly.
Take a warm shower or soak in a warm bath. If you take a bath, Adding oatmeal, salt, vinegar or baking soda is more than just an old wives' tale. These common household products, especially oatmeal, can soothe your inflamed skin. Even a little bleach in a large bathtub is effective for treating atopic eczema. The two keys are bathing in warm water and moisturizing within three minutes of bathing. This locks the moisture from the water into your skin, soothing it.
Can Over-the-Counter Treatments Help?
Some over-the-counter eczema treatments are effective. H1 antihistamines, like Benadryl, have a sedative effect that can relieve itching. Hydrocortisone is a steroid that effectively treats mild cases of eczema without a prescription. Unfortunately, after a couple weeks of use, your skin can thin at the treatment site and start to crack. Cortisone works fine for treating flare-ups, but you may need something stronger for chronic atopic eczema.
Are There Prescriptions for Eczema?
If OTC therapies don't work for you, we recommend a prescription of prednisone. This drug is in the class of corticosteroids and is extremely effective for treating painful inflammation. Prescription antihistamines also tend to work better than their over-the-counter counterparts and have less side effects.
Other effective topical prescription drugs include TCIs (topical calcineurin inhibitors), PDE4 inhibitors and skin barrier creams. Talk to a dermatologist to discover which prescription medications are right for your case.
Does Phototherapy Actually Work?
During phototherapy, a machine emits narrowband UVB, or ultraviolet B, light onto the skin. This increases your skin's vitamin D production and supports your skin's bacteria-fighting systems. Depending on the type of eczema you have, you may find this therapy effective for reducing your inflammation and itching.
Will Immunosuppressants Help?
Researchers have yet to discover the cause of eczema. However, they know that the immune system plays a role in the condition. Eczema results from an overactive immune system. If your eczema is severe, immunosuppressants can be an effective eczema treatment. They help to control your immune system. This reduces the frequency and severity of eczema systems, like redness, itching and painful inflammation.
Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today
You don't have to settle for chronic irritated, itchy skin. There are effective eczema treatment methods out there for you. Contact the friendly professionals at Regeneris Medical in Boston today to schedule your initial consultation. We welcome you to discover how to treat your eczema safely and effectively.
