Eczema refers to a range of skin conditions characterized by inflammation at a particular site of the body. This may be due to contact with a specific allergen that triggers an inflammatory process, causing erythema (redness), vesicle formation (small and round, fluid-filled structures), and itching. Eczema treatment and prevention can be done with the help of your dermatologist. A consultation will allow your doctor to evaluate your condition, make a proper diagnosis and formulate an eczema treatment plan most suitable for you. Don't be afraid to ask your dermatologist for tips on how to prevent future flare-ups.
Eczema Treatment
The goals of an effective eczema treatment are to reduce redness due to inflammation, itching, and lesions as well as eliminate any concurrent infection and prevent development of new lesions. There are a number of available treatments for eczema, and for maximal efficacy dermatologists prescribe a combination of medications. Some of these treatments available are:
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are widely used as eczema remedy. Oral preparations such as prednisone are effective in preventing the inflammatory process that leads to intense itching, redness and vesicle formation. For adults, this can be taken for 7 to 14 days depending on dosage and response. In some cases, treatment can last up to 3 weeks. Topical corticosteroids are not used during acute stage when vesicles are the predominant lesion since the medication cannot penetrate through it.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are used more for their symptomatic relief. The antihistamines work by blocking histamine, the substance that cause itching and redness. Sedative effects of diphenhydramine and hydroxyzine are helpful in making patients rest and sleep.
Antibiotics
Oral antibiotics eliminate superficial secondary infections that usually manifest as painful red blisters and pus. Antibiotics and topical corticosteroids are a usual combination for eczema treatment.
Intralesional Injection
Intralesional injection is a reserved eczema treatment for chronic or longstanding conditions. One injection may be enough to treat the eczema, but resistant plaques usually require 3- to 4-week intervals of additional injections.
Topical Macrolide Immune Suppressants
Tacrolimus ointment and pimecrolimus cream are eczema treatment options that also prevent inflammation and can be used for children 2 years or older. They are often used after treatment with topical steroids for rapid resolution.
Lubrication
This is an essential step in an eczema treatment, as dry, inflamed skin is more susceptible to irritation and infection. Lotions and moisturizing creams can be applied a few hours after topical steroids and should be continued until the eczema resolves.
Not having any luck with your eczema problem? Learn how to treat eczema by using natural remedies for eczema that's safe and effective.
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