Do you get a flare-up of red, itchy, irritated skin? If so, you may be among the millions of Americans with eczema – a skin condition that causes dry and itchy patches of skin. An eczema flare is typically a return of symptoms that include a red, itchy skin rash. The good news is that there are several tips that your Allergy and Asthma Institute, LLC healthcare provider recommends to prevent flare-ups.
The best way to prevent eczema flare-ups is by knowing your triggers. Several things could set off an eczema flare-up, and triggers vary from person to person. Below are several triggers that may cause an outbreak of eczema symptoms.
Dry skin
Dry skin can become rough and itchy and sometimes crack, allowing bacteria or allergens to be inside. It is a common eczema trigger for many people. Therefore, it is best to keep your skin moist, especially when the air is dry in winter. You can also use a humidifier in your bedroom to increase moisture content in the air. Ensure you apply moisturizing body lotion after you get out of the shower. Your dermatologist may recommend the best cream for eczema.
If you have itchy skin, add tiny drops of bath oil in a warm bath and soak to ease the itching and moisten your skin. You can also add colloidal oatmeal to your bath.
Clothing
Wearing tight clothes with rough fabric can trigger eczema. Clothes that are too heavy and warm can cause sweating which may result in a flare of symptoms. Therefore, opt for soft clothes that are gentle on your skin. If wool and other fabrics bother you, avoid them. You can ding wool-free garments to keep you warm during cold days. Wearing loose items that don’t rub against your skin also helps.
Stress and anxiety
Eczema symptoms can flare up during times when you are worried or stressed. Additionally, the itchy, sore skin can stress you out, resulting in an endless cycle and as such, finding ways to relax in times of stress is vital. For example, ensure you get adequate sleep at night to feel refreshed the next day. Massage therapy, aromatherapy, and soaking in a warm bath with essential oils can ease your tension. If you can’t keep your stress under control, don’t hesitate to seek help.
Dust, pet dander, smoke, and sand
Tiny particles suspended in the air can irritate your skin and trigger eczema symptoms. Some people are also allergic to pet dander from dogs or cats, and other times a dusty home or cigarette smoke is to blame.
You should keep your home and office area dust-free if dust irritates your skin. Avoid hanging out with people who smoke or if smoke triggers your eczema flare-ups. If pet dander irritates your skin, you may talk to your doctor or an allergist.
See your doctor if eczema symptoms are so severe that they interfere with sleep and everyday activities. You should also contact your doctor if you have a skin infection; yellow scabs, red streaks, and pus are possible signs of an infection.
If you have eczema, visit your specialist at Allergy and Asthma Institute, LLC, for treatment to ease itching and improve your quality of life howitstart.
