Eczema is a skin condition caused by to hyperactive immune response triggered by various factors be it inside the body or outside the environment. 

Woman with eczema

It results in skin inflammation, itchiness, redness or may cause pain in some cases. Eczema can be of different types affecting palms, hands, feet, scalp, head, face, and legs.  Eczema impinges on its effects differently among people. Therefore, its triggers are different too. Some of the day-to-day phenomena triggering eczema are: 

  • Dry skin: Overly dry skin can easily become rough, scaly, firm, and inelastic which can cause eczema.
  • Irritants:  Certain soaps, detergents, shampoos or disinfectants can cause skin burns, itching, dryness, and rashes, resulting in eczema. Also, some natural liquids like fruit and vegetable juices can also cause skin irritation. 
  • Allergens: Pets, dust mites, pollens, and mold can also trigger eczema.
  • Microorganisms: Viruses, bacteria, and fungi are a few common causes of eczema.
  • Climate condition: Extreme environmental conditions like too hot or cold weather, humidity (high or low), and sweating after exercise can also trigger eczema.
  • Food: Dairy products, nuts, wheat, soy products, etc. can also lead to eczema-related inflammatory response.
  • Hormones: Hormonal imbalance, especially in women, can cause eczema flare-ups in some cases.
  • Genetics: Besides physical and environmental factors, genetics can also be a cause of eczema. For example, children with a family history of atopic dermatitis, asthma, hay fever are more prone to developing eczema. 

Treatment

Eczema is not contagious, and treatment options depend on the severity of the condition. Home remedies like taking a lukewarm bath, applying moisturizers at regular intervals, wearing cotton and soft fabrics, using mild soaps, and avoiding a humid environment can help treat eczema. 

Medications

There are several medications available for the condition, talk to your dermatologist for the right prescription. 

Topical Corticosteroid creams and ointments: These ointments are anti-inflammatory and help in relieving skin inflammation and itchiness. 

Systemic Corticosteroids: These are available in the form of injections and tablets. This is prescribed only when topical corticosteroids fail to provide relief. 

Your dermatologist can prescribe antibiotics, antivirals, and antihistamines depending on the condition and symptoms. 

Additional Factors That Bring Skin Woes

Stress And Emotional Factors

Emotional stress can aggravate eczema by disrupting the immune system and increasing inflammation. Stress hormones, like cortisol, can impair the skin's ability to retain moisture, leading to dryness and flare-ups. Managing stress through relaxation techniques can help reduce eczema severity.

Weather Changes

Sudden changes can trigger eczema. Cold, dry weather often dries out the skin, while heat and sweating can irritate it, leading to itching and flare-ups. Maintaining consistent skin hydration helps mitigate these effects.

Infections

Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, such as staph or herpes simplex, can worsen eczema. These infections compromise the skin's barrier, leading to increased inflammation and discomfort. Prompt treatment of infections is essential to prevent severe flare-ups.

(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)

Author Profile: M Sowmya Binu:

With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.