Atopic dermatitis, or eczema as it’s more commonly known, is a frustrating condition that affects more than 35 million Americans. Symptoms tend to present as patches of skin becoming red and itchy, with areas of oozing or swelling. It most commonly appears on the face, backs of the knees, insides of the elbows, hands and wrists. Eczema is long-lasting and tends to ‘flare-up’ periodically. While most common in children, Eczema can affect anyone at any age. By knowing some common eczema triggers, it can help you to manage flares and prevent new outbreaks.
- Stress: Stress is one of the most common eczema triggers. While it’s nearly impossible to remove all of the stress from our lives, trying to keep our stress levels at a minimum can help with flares.
- Temperature Extremes: Too hot or too cold is not ideal for those with eczema. Excessive sweating is an eczema trigger for many people, while extreme cold can cause the skin to become too dry. Aim for a comfortable environment with humidity levels of 45-55 percent.
- Cosmetics: Cosmetics tend to have fragrances or preservatives in them that can be irritating to eczema sufferers. Look for “fragrance-free” products and do a patch test before using them to check for irritation.
- Get to know your fabrics: Cotton is the best option when it comes to eczema sufferers. Wool, synthetics, and other rough materials could irritate skin and trigger a flare.
- Laundry Detergents: Harsh ingredients in many detergents can irritate skin. Opting for a fragrance-free, neutral pH detergent is a good choice.
- Diet: Food allergies can sometimes trigger eczema symptoms, so if you start to notice symptoms after eating a particular food, it might be time to see your doctor.While there’s currently no cure for eczema, the condition can be better managed by knowing your personal triggers and avoiding them to prevent flare-ups.
If you or someone you love is struggling with eczema, ActivMed currently has enrolling studies for those seeking new treatment options. Qualified candidates who participate will receive study-related care at no cost and receive compensation for travel. To learn more and see how you or someone you love may qualify for a study, click HERE.