Eczema is a long-term condition that causes the skin to become dry, itchy, red and cracked.
If you have eczema, your symptoms can vary between small patches of dry skin to widespread inflamed areas of cracked skin.
The condition is usually a long-term one that may improve as patients get older.
Signs of eczema can vary from person to person.
Mild eczema can cause small areas of dry skin that are occasionally itchy.
In more severe cases, symptoms may include widespread inflamed skin that’s constantly itchy and sore.
Fortunately, there are ways to help combat eczema symptoms quickly.
How to treat eczema
“Eczema affects around 10 to 20% of schoolchildren and 3-5% of adults in the UK,” said Dr Daniel Glass of the Dermatology Clinic London.
“Eczema can flare up when coming into contact with detergents, plants, perfumes, or certain medication.
“Sometimes the cause of allergy-induced eczema is obvious, at other times, it can be difficult to distinguish.
“A clear history from the patient is key to ascertaining any external factors, which may be exacerbating the eczema.
“This is especially true as the eczema may only get worse some days after exposure to the allergen.”
According to the Mayo Clinic, at-home remedies to treat eczema symptoms quickly include:
- Moisturise skin at least twice a day
- Apply an anti-itch cream to the affected area
- Take an oral allergy or anti-itch medication
- Don’t scratch
- Apply bandages
- Take a warm bath
- Choose mild soaps without dyes or perfumes
- Use a humidifier
- Wear cool, smooth-textured clothing
- Treat stress and anxiety.
There isn’t a specific cure for eczema, but some eczema treatments may help to reduce the itchy signs of eczema at home.
Emollients and creams could be found at your local pharmacy to treat dry skin.
"It’s important to understand what triggers your eczema," said the National Eczema Association.
"Learning about the irritants in your everyday surroundings can help you better manage the condition whether you use traditional medications, alternative therapies, or both.”
Eczema in the heat
Hot temperatures are known to aggravate eczema.
The heat stimulates the itchy, prickly feeling, further worsening the symptoms.
It can also cause sweating, which may lure bacteria and unwanted chemicals to the skin.
During the heat, it’s strongly advised to stay indoors and shower or bathe more than once if needs be.
Eczema is more likely to develop in children than adults, but it can also appear in later life.
It's not exactly clear what causes the condition, but it's believed to be linked to allergies, according to the NHS.
It can run in families, and it's usually diagnosed at a similar time to asthma or hay fever.
