Eczema is a group of skin conditions that produce irritation or inflammation. It affects 3% of adults and children and 10% to 20% of newborns in the country. By the age of ten, most children have outgrown it. However, some people have symptoms that come and go. Although no known cure exists, most affected persons may manage their symptoms by seeking treatment and avoiding triggers. In addition, eczema is not contagious; thus, it cannot spread to others.

Eczema signs & symptoms
Eczema causes skin inflammation in children and adults, resulting in red, dry, itchy areas. Eczema signs and symptoms like itching can be severe and persistent. The skin may become infected and develop blisters or ulcers because of frequent scratching. In addition, the skin may become excessively rough, leathery, and deeper in color.

Eczema usually affects the face, scalp, arms, and legs. Eczema may affect only the insides of the elbows and the backs of the knees in older children. In some children with severe eczema, the entire body may be affected.

Eczema causes
In addition to having a family history of the condition, many everyday home objects are possible environmental irritants and can induce allergic reactions, which can cause an eczema flare-up. Some common eczema causes include:

• Prolonged exposure to cold, hot, or dry conditions
• A few types of soap, dander-causing shampoos, bubble bath items, body washes, and facial cleansers
• Chemical-based fabric softeners and laundry detergents that use surface cleansers and disinfectants on specific materials in clothing and sheets, such as wool or polyester
• Environmental triggers like dust, pollen and dander
• Natural liquids such as fruit, vegetable, and meat juice
• Scents in candles, metals
• Nickel in jewelry or utensils
• Formaldehyde, found in some immunizations, glues, and adhesives, as well as some household cleansers

Foods to help with eczema
Although some foods are anti-inflammatory, some cause an eczema flare-up. Therefore, include anti-inflammatory food items on your shopping list. These foods can boost the immune system and relieve symptoms.

Adding whole foods and fewer processed foods to one’s meal is a healthy eating strategy regardless of whether one has eczema. Whole foods are those that have had minimal preparation and are most comparable to those found in nature. Look for whole grains, nuts, seeds, and non-starchy fruits and vegetables. Besides, the body requires omega-3s, a healthy fat that cannot produce independently. Fish like sardines, herring, tuna, mackerel, and salmon are some healthy options.

Eczema remedies
Natural treatments and home remedies can help relieve the dry, itchy skin associated with eczema. Doctor-recommended creams, natural products, food, and lifestyle modifications help control or avoid eczema flare-ups, especially in the winter when symptoms are often at their worst.

Natural eczema remedies that help restore dry, damaged skin include the topical use of aloe vera gel and coconut oil. They can also help with edema reduction by alleviating inflammation and infection prevention by protecting against dangerous microorganisms.

Eczema treatment
Eczema appears and disappears frequently. Some symptoms may last for longer periods. The treatments used to reduce eczema flare-ups are:

• Topical and oral prescriptions
• Light treatment exposes the skin to UV light to treat rashes and flare-ups
• Cool compresses
• Colloidal oatmeal creams
• Wet wrap therapy