Category: Eczema Cure

Food allergies in babies can be a source of concern and anxiety for parents. As infants transition to solid foods, the risk of allergic reactions becomes a significant consideration. Understanding the basics of food allergies, recognizing potential allergens, and knowing how to manage allergic reactions are crucial for ensuring the health and safety of your baby. In this guide, we’ll explore everything parents need to know about food allergies in babies.

What are Food Allergies in Babies?

Food allergies occur when the body’s immune system reacts abnormally to certain proteins found in food. In infants, food allergies can manifest as a range of symptoms, from mild itching and hives to severe reactions such as anaphylaxis. Common food allergens in babies include cow’s milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish.

Recognizing Signs of Food Allergies

Recognizing the signs of food allergies is crucial for ensuring prompt intervention and management. Here are some common symptoms to be aware of:

1. Skin Reactions:
   • Hives (red, itchy welts on the skin)
   • Eczema flare-ups (itchy, red, inflamed patches of skin)
   • Swelling, particularly around the face, lips, eyes, or tongue
2. Gastrointestinal Symptoms:
   • Vomiting
   • Diarrhea
   • Abdominal pain or cramping
   • Nausea
3. Respiratory Symptoms:
   • Wheezing or difficulty breathing
   • Coughing
   • Runny or stuffy nose
   • Sneezing
4. Facial Swelling:
   • Swelling of the face, particularly around the eyes, lips, or tongue
   • Swollen throat, leading to difficulty swallowing or breathing
5. Cardiovascular Symptoms:
   • Rapid heartbeat
   • Weak pulse
   • Low blood pressure
   • Loss of consciousness (in severe cases)
6. Behavioral Changes:
   • Irritability
   • Fussiness
   • Excessive crying
   • Lethargy or weakness

It’s important to note that allergic reactions can vary in severity, from mild to life-threatening. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention and may involve a combination of symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, rapid pulse, and loss of consciousness. If you suspect your child is experiencing anaphylaxis, administer epinephrine (if available) and seek emergency medical care immediately.

If you notice any of these signs or symptoms after your child consumes a particular food, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis. Keep a detailed record of your child’s symptoms, including the specific foods consumed, the timing of the reaction, and the severity of the symptoms, to aid in diagnosis and management. With vigilance and proactive care, you can help ensure the health and safety of your child in the presence of food allergies.

Diagnosing Food Allergies in Babies

Diagnosing food allergies in babies involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Here are the steps typically involved in diagnosing food allergies in infants:

1. Medical History:
   • The healthcare provider will begin by gathering a detailed medical history, including information about the baby’s symptoms, diet, feeding patterns, and any previous allergic reactions.
   • Parents or caregivers will be asked to provide information about the timing and severity of symptoms, as well as any suspected food triggers.
2. Physical Examination:
   • A thorough physical examination will be conducted to assess the baby’s overall health and look for signs of allergic reactions, such as skin rashes, eczema, or respiratory symptoms.
3. Elimination Diet:
   • In some cases, the healthcare provider may recommend an elimination diet to identify potential food allergens. This involves removing suspected allergenic foods from the baby’s diet for a period of time and then reintroducing them one at a time while monitoring for allergic reactions.
   • Elimination diets should only be conducted under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure proper nutrition and prevent unintended consequences.
4. Allergy Testing:
   • Allergy testing may be recommended to confirm suspected food allergies and identify specific allergens. The two main types of allergy testing used in infants include:
     • Skin Prick Test: A small amount of allergen extract is placed on the skin, usually on the forearm or back, and the skin is pricked with a needle to allow the allergen to enter the skin. A positive reaction, indicated by redness, swelling, or itching at the site, suggests the presence of an allergy.
     • Blood Test (Specific IgE Testing): A blood sample is taken and tested for the presence of specific IgE antibodies to common food allergens. Elevated levels of IgE antibodies to certain foods indicate sensitization and potential allergy to those foods.
   • Allergy testing is typically performed after the baby has been exposed to the suspected allergen, as testing may yield false-negative results if the baby has not yet developed an allergic response.
5. Oral Food Challenge:
   • In some cases, an oral food challenge may be conducted under the supervision of a healthcare provider to confirm or rule out a suspected food allergy. During an oral food challenge, the baby is given increasing doses of the suspected allergen while being closely monitored for signs of an allergic reaction.
   • Oral food challenges should only be performed in a controlled medical setting with appropriate emergency equipment and trained healthcare personnel.
6. Keeping a Food Diary:
   • Parents or caregivers may be asked to keep a detailed food diary to track the baby’s diet, symptoms, and any suspected food triggers. This information can help identify patterns and potential allergens.
7. Consultation with a Pediatric Allergist:
   • In cases of complex or severe food allergies, consultation with a pediatric allergist may be recommended. A pediatric allergist can provide specialized expertise in diagnosing and managing food allergies in infants and children.

By conducting a thorough evaluation, including medical history, physical examination, and appropriate diagnostic tests, healthcare providers can accurately diagnose food allergies in babies and develop a tailored management plan to ensure the baby’s safety and well-being. It’s essential for parents or caregivers to work closely with healthcare professionals and follow their guidance throughout the diagnostic process.

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Conclusion

Food allergies in babies can be challenging to navigate, but with knowledge, vigilance, and proactive management, parents can help ensure the health and safety of their child. By understanding the signs of food allergies, seeking timely diagnosis and treatment, and implementing appropriate dietary modifications, parents can empower themselves to care for their baby’s unique needs effectively. Remember, you are not alone—reach out to healthcare professionals, support groups, and other parents for guidance and support on your journey through managing food allergies in babies.

Table of contents

• Introduction
• What are topical steroids?
• How topical steroids are prescribed?
• How to apply topical steroids?
• What is a fingertip unit (FTU)?
• Pros and cons of topical steroids
• What are side effects of topical steroids?
• What is topical steroid withdrawal?
• What should you be careful about when using steroids?
• Conclusion

Introduction

Topical steroids are medicated creams that can be applied on skin to treat eczema. It is a very effective treatment in addition to emollients (moisturizers). A short course of prescription steroid cream for eczema is enough to clear up an eczema flare. If you use it for short periods, side effects are uncommon. Steroids reduce skin inflammation which occurs in eczema.

Eczema or atopic dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin leading to red, itchy rash.

What are topical steroids?

Steroids also known as corticosteroids belong to a group of medications known as glucocorticoids. Topical steroid is an anti-inflammatory preparation. Apart from being anti-inflammatory, it also acts by being immunosuppressive, anti-proliferative and vasoconstrictive. Steroid containing topical products include creams, ointments and lotions. Creams work best in treating moist or weeping areas of eczematous skin. They are usually white. Ointments are best to treat dry and thickened areas of skin. They are usually clear. Lotions are used to treat hairy regions such as scalp. They are thin creams.

Steroids work by reducing the inflammation of your skin. They are used for many skin conditions and eczema is one of them. Prescription steroid cream for eczema is effective in treating eczema.

There are several types of topical steroids and they are categorized according to their strength. Greater the potency or strength, more effective it will be in reducing inflammation but on the other hand side effects will be more with continued use.

1. Mild – Ex: 1% Hydrocortisone
2. Moderately potent – Ex: Prednicarbate
3. Potent (strong) – Ex: Betamethasone valerate, Mometasone furoate
4. Very potent – Ex: Clobetasol propionate

How topical steroids are prescribed?

When there is one or more patches of an eczema flare-up, a course of topical steroid is used. Once the flare-up is cleared, the topical steroid treatment can be stopped. The aim is to use the lowest strength of topical steroid to minimize the side effects, but strong enough to clear your flare up.

Ex: 1% Hydrocortisone is used to treat eczema in children

Usually topical steroids must not be used for prolonged periods on large areas of the body. This rule is important especially for children. For severe inflammatory eczema, a very potent topical steroid will be used such as Clobetasol propionate. A small amount should be applied on affected areas while gently massaging into skin.

Sometimes your doctor or the dermatologist will use 2 or more preparations of different strengths at the same time.

Ex:

• Mild topical steroid for eczema lesions on the face
• Moderately potent steroid for lesions on arms and legs where your skin is thicker
• A very potent steroid is needed for eczema on your palms and soles as the skin is thick in these areas.

Usually a short course of topical steroids for 7 -14 days is enough to clear a flare-up although sometimes longer courses are required. Some dermatologists will try a short course of a strong topical steroid usually for 3 days to treat a mild to moderate flare. This method is quick and quite safe. How often a steroid course is necessary will depend on how often you get a flare and it greatly varies from person to person. Once the steroid topical course is over, emollients must be continued daily to prevent further flares of eczema. Therefore, prescription steroid cream for eczema for a short period usually gives relief.

For people with frequent flares of eczema, a steroid can be applied on the usual sites where you get a flare up for 2 days every week. This is known as weekend therapy. It helps to prevent a flare up from occurring.

How to apply topical steroids?

Topical steroids can be applied once or twice a day according to your doctor’s advice. A fingertip unit is the correct dose and it is a small amount that has to be gently rubbed on the areas of inflamed skin until it disappears. Although moisturizers are applied liberally, topical steroids must be applied carefully.

First apply your emollient and wait for 10-15 minutes, before applying the prescription steroid cream for eczema. Wash your hands after application.

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What is a fingertip unit (FTU)?

A fingertip unit is the amount of steroid that is squeezed out from a tube (standard size with a 5mm nozzle) along an adult’s fingertip. 1 FTU is enough to treat an area, twice the size of an adult palm with fingers together.

Pros and cons of topical steroids

Topical steroids are especially useful in treatment of any inflammatory skin condition. It is very effective to treat a flare-up of eczema. However there are certain side effects which you have to know.

What are the side effects of topical steroids?

A short course (less than 4 weeks) of topical steroids is generally safe and side effects are rare. Problems arise when you continue to use topical steroids for prolonged periods or if strong steroids are used frequently. Side effects are common if strong topical steroids are used long term. The side effects can be local or systemic.

Local side effects (affecting the area treated and a bit of surrounding skin)

• Burning or stinging sensation – This is common when you apply a topical steroid for the first time. Once your skin gets used to the treatment, this feeling will subside.
• Skin atrophy (Thinning of skin) – although uncommon with normal regular use, it occurs especially if a potent steroid is used under occlusion (air tight dressing).
• Worsening or triggering other skin conditions like acne, Rosacea and perioral dermatitis.
• Develop striae (permanent stretch marks), telangiectasia (thin spidery blood vessels), easy bruising and discoloration. These are common with long term use of topical steroids.
• Changing of skin color – This is noticeable more in people with dark complexion.
• Growth of hair will increase in the treated area of skin
• Allergic reactions – This may occur usually to the preservatives used in the steroid product. It can irritate your skin and worsen inflammation.

Systemic effects (affecting your whole body)

This is rare with topical steroids but can occur when strong steroids are used for long periods. The steroid can get absorbed in to your blood stream.

• Affecting the growth of children – If children need repeated doses of strong topical steroids, their growth must be monitored.
• Increase of blood pressure
• Increase of blood cholesterol levels
• Fluid retention (Collection of fluid in legs)
• Baldness (thinning of hair in scalp)
• Features of Cushing syndrome – weight gain, skin thinning, mood changes, buffalo hump in the neck, purple color striae, moon face etc.

Although there is a common fear of treatment, the risk of side effects is lower than most of us think, as long as it is applied as prescribed and not used longer than necessary.

What is topical steroid withdrawal?

This can occur when treated with a moderate strength or potent steroid which is stopped suddenly. The symptoms of topical steroid withdrawal include red skin, stinging, burning pain, itching, excessive sweating and peeling of skin. The severity of symptoms may vary from mild short lived to severe long term. The symptoms will gradually settle, sometimes leaving your skin dry and itchy for prolonged periods.

What should you be careful about when using steroids?

• Do not undertreat because you are too cautious – always apply as prescribed to clear your flare up.
• Avoid using too much – you might want to continue topical steroids daily, even after your eczema has cleared, in order to prevent a future flare. You should not use steroids for long periods without close supervision by a doctor. However, you can apply moisturizers liberally every day which will help you to prevent a flare up of eczema.

In order to prevent side effects, the strength or potency of the topical steroid needs to be adjusted to the sensitivity and thickness of the skin area which needs to be treated.

Steroids become more potent in your face, eye lids, genitals, inner sides of joints and arm pits because the skin is thin and sensitive. Therefore, steroids of low or medium potency is enough to treat eczema in these regions. Higher potency steroids are needed for scalp, palms and soles as the skin here is thick and the medication should reach deeper layers of skin.

The effect will be stronger when topical steroids are applied to wet skin. It acts better when applied after taking a bath when your skin is damp rather than applying steroids to dry skin. If you cover the area with a wet wrap or a bandage, it will help to absorb the medication more. It is important to keep this fact in mind when applying steroids to diaper (nappy) covered skin regions in babies.

Topical steroids can be combined with other active ingredients such as antibiotics, antifungal agent or calcipotriol. Topical Antibiotic/ steroid preparations should be used rarely, short term only. This is to reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance.

Prescribing topical steroids in pregnancy – Mild and moderate potency steroids can be safely used in pregnancy. But if using strong steroids in to large areas or under occlusion, caution should be used because it can get absorbed.

There can be potent steroids illegally present in some cosmetic products sold over the counter or via internet. These can give rise to side effects unknowingly. Always read the label before you try out any new products on your own.

References:

• https://dermnetnz.org/topics/topical-steroid
• https://patient.info/skin-conditions/atopic-eczema/topical-steroids-for-eczema
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563106/

Reach the support group in your Location

• Global
• USA
• UK
• Australia
• Austria
• Canada
• Czech Republic
• France
• Germany
• Israel
• Kenya
• Malaysia
• Malta
• New-Zealand
• Norway
• Québec
• Singapore
• Slovenia
• Switzerland

Atopic Dermatitis also commonly known as Eczema is a skin condition characterized by itchy, red and inflamed skin. Eczema affects babies and kids more than adults. Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition and tends to flare periodically due to triggers. There are some common triggers that flare Eczema but it seems that individuals are susceptible to different triggers.  Environmental and weather triggers affect large populations at the same time and that is why Eczema is more prevalent in some parts of the globe than others and flares more during certain seasons.  Parts of the world with a cold climate have a higher incidence of Eczema prevalence.

Eczema is not fatal but can severely affect the quality of living for sufferers. Also, there is no known complete cure for Eczema. Since Eczema is not considered a fatal disease it receives lesser attention from government-run agencies leaving sufferers to fend from themselves. As a result, there are a number of Eczema support groups and associations. These groups and associations are mostly non-profitable and aim to support Eczema sufferers with information and knowledge about living with Eczema and the various available treatments.

In this article, we have tried to list organizations that are available Globally and those from different countries where one can find support and advice for effectively managing their eczema.

1) Global Parents for Eczema Research

Created for and by parents of children with moderate to severe eczema, Global Parents for Eczema Research is an international group of parents and caregivers of children with moderate to severe eczema. It is focused on improving outcomes and quality of life for children with the condition. It is a virtual organization with members representing five different continents and 17 countries. If you are an eczema parent you can join their Facebook group to start a conversation.

2) International Topical Steroid Awareness Network

Founded in 2012 the International Topical Steroid Awareness Network, ITSAN, aims to raise awareness about a condition called Topical Steroid Withdrawal Syndrome (TSW syndrome), also known as Topical Steroid Addiction or Red Skin Syndrome. Topical Steroid Withdrawal Syndrome is a debilitating condition that can arise from the use of topical steroid creams to treat a skin problem. It is a critical condition for the junk of people especially those suffering from a chronic skin condition like Eczema.

The experienced Board members of ITSAN have either suffered from Topical Steroid Withdrawal Syndrome themselves or have known or cared for a loved one who has. Hence they are in a sound position to help and support the sufferers to take any effective action to recover as quickly as possible form TSW syndrome. The group fosters physician and patient education to support affected individuals.

If you or any loved one suffering from Topical withdrawal syndrome you can get in touch with them for support.

3) International Council of Eczema

Headquartered at Chicago, USA International Eczema Council is a Non-Governmental International body that brings together Dermatology Experts on Atopic Dermatitis.  The IEC works towards the goal of promoting good caring practices for Eczema Patients, carry out advanced research, and disseminate evidence-based information on AD to healthcare professionals. 
 
It also collaborates with physicians, scientists, and stakeholder organizations across the globe to achieve the set goals, its councilors are spread worldwide in order to help patients in their respective regions.

4) National Eczema Association 

Based out of the USA,  The National Eczema Association (NEA) is a non-profit organization with a stated mission to improve the health and quality of life for individuals with eczema through research, support and education.  NEA claims to provide eczema sufferers the information they need to best manage their condition, while fast-tracking research towards better treatments and a cure. NEA is one of the comprehensive organizations doing an all-round work right from research, providing information, support and helping out eczema sufferers at the grass-root level. NEA claims to be dedicated to improving the lives of people suffering from Eczema 

5) Eczema Outreach Support 

Eczema Outreach Support exists to help families deal with the practical and emotional aspects of having a child with eczema.  We understand the impact the condition can have on the whole family, and we understand how isolating it can feel. Our vision is to see families with eczema flourish in a society where they can lead healthy and fulfilled lives. We offer a wide range of support, activities, and resources to help parents/carers and the child with eczema feel more able to cope with the ups and downs of the condition. 

6) National Eczema Society 

Formed in 1975, the National Eczema Society is a charity organization registered in England, Wales and Scotland, dedicated to improving the quality of life of people with eczema and their caregivers. The National Eczema Society aims to provide practical advice for treating eczema and to raise awareness about the condition. The organization works with children and adults who suffer from eczema by providing helpline and information services.  

7) Eczema Association Australasia

EAA is a non-profit organization dedicated to eczema sufferers in Australia and was founded in January 1994.  EAA aims to reach every Australian who lives with this disease. The Eczema Association of Australasia Inc supports and educates Eczema sufferers and caregivers, along with the wider community, in all aspects of Eczema and its impact. With a helpline number displayed on their website, they are just a call away for every Australian suffering with eczema. 

8) Eczema Support Australia 

Another group in Australia for Eczema Sufferers, Eczema Support Australia Ltd is a new and developing support network established and managed by volunteers.  Originally named Hands to Hold, Eczema Support Australia Ltd is registered as a Public Benevolent Institution and is an Australian registered charity and endorsed as a deductible gift recipient (DGR).  

Hands to Hold was inspired by a family with twin boys who have severe allergies and eczema.  Thanks to the initiative and drive of a friend, this family finally received wonderful community support, which has made all the difference.  All families and individuals dealing with these chronic conditions deserve our community support. 

9) Global Allergy & Asthma Patient Platform

The Global Allergy and Asthma Patient Platform, Austria abbreviated as GAAPP is a network linking organization established in 2009 with a common purpose to empower the patient and support the patient voice so that decision-makers in both the public and private sectors, in government and industry will be mindful of patient needs, desires, and their rights.  

The main interest of GAAPP is to support and improvement of the quality of life of people around the globe who have allergies and asthma. With a goal to help patients and their families through their journey with asthma and allergies work in concert with healthcare professionals, researchers and scientists, industry, and governments to further the aspirations of people with asthma and allergies. While based in Vienna, Austria, our Board is representative of all regions of the world with large and small groups.

10) The Eczema Society of Canada 

The Eczema Society of Canada is a registered Canadian charity dedicated to improving the lives of Canadians living with eczema. Working in the field of education, support, awareness, advocacy, and research in Eczema. With the mission of improving the lives of Canadians living with eczema, they offer patient and healthcare provider education, support volunteers across the country, and fund research efforts through a competitive research grant program.

11)  The Association of Psoriatic and Atopic Eczema 

The support group in the Czech Republic is common for both Psoriasis and Atopic Dermatitis called SPAE. The Association of Psoriatic and Atopic Eczema (SPAE) is a voluntary, non-profit civic association. Primarily working with the Czech Academy of Dermatovenerology SPAE with an aim to promote an improved form of treatment for non-infectious skin disease, thereby improving the social-economic condition of the people suffering from this.

SPAE is open to all citizens affected by psoriasis, atopic eczema, and vitiligo. It openly invites professionals who can contribute to this cause. 

12) French Association of Eczema 

The French Association of Eczema is committed to patients and families suffering from Eczema since 2011. It includes patients with atopic dermatitis, chronic hand eczema, contact dermatitis, and other forms of eczema with an aim to help them improve their daily lives, through psychological support, information, education, or research.

The main goal of the association is to bring information to patients and their families in order to break their isolation. Their website in the local French-language goes a long way toward achieving this goal. 

13) Fondation Eczéma

The Fondation Eczéma is a Corporate Foundation of Pierre Fabre Laboratories. The Foundation works to provide patients, families, and healthcare professionals with information on the different types of eczema, treatments, and ways to reduce the burden of eczema.

The founding members associate a close collaboration with scientists, doctors, patients, and their entourage by placing at their service this corporate foundation, exclusively devoted to atopic dermatitis.

14) German Allergy and Asthma Association (DAAB)

The German Allergy and Asthma Association (DAAB) was founded way back in 1897 as the first patient association in Germany serving the children and adults suffering from allergies, nutritional problems, respiratory or skin diseases for 120 years. 
 
The Association has a team of consultants from the field of nutrition, biology, chemistry, asthma, eczema and anaphylaxis trainer working for people who have allergies, asthma, atopic dermatitis or intolerance. 
 
For people suffering from Eczema DAAB provides counseling and shows them ways to get through the difficult phases and to extend the phases with good, calm skin trying to make their everyday life easier 

15) Israeli Association for Atopic Dermatitis 

The Israeli Atopic Dermatitis Association serves as a unifying platform for Eczema patients and their families with an aim to provide every patient with the most up-to-date medical knowledge and enabling them to build the most appropriate treatment plan. 

The association works with the health communities in Israel and around the world, to raise awareness about the right treatment of skin disease. Improving the quality of life for Eczema patients so that they lead a normal life is a stated goal of this association.  

16) Eczema Society Kenya (ESK)

Eczema Society Kenya is a Facebook group founded in 2015. The group’s motto is creating awareness on Eczema, its management, and creating a platform for people affected to share ideas thus making lives bearable for the eczema sufferers in Kenya. With a lot of activities and events, the group brings together people to disburse the valuable information related to eczema. People can join their Facebook group and become a member to avail and share valuable information.

17) Malaysia Eczema Support Community 

Malaysia Eczema Support Community MESC is a Facebook-based platform. The members of this group provide evidence-based information and support eczema sufferers by answering their queries. They also do the vital job of raising awareness about the needs of Eczema sufferers.

MESC is backed by dermatologists, immunologist/allergist, and medical and health professionals. The group is open to the public and anyone who is interested in getting Eczema advice can join the group. 

18) Malta Eczema Society 

The Malta Eczema Society was set up in 2001 to help those with eczema and their families. The group was established after feeling the need for it in the country like other nations where eczema is prevalent.
The society aims to help by providing support, information and practical advice via public talks and other activities and to increase awareness about eczema and the problems it may cause. 

19) Eczema Association of New Zealand 

Established as an individual body in 2015 The Eczema Association of New Zealand (EANZ) is part of an independent not-for-profit Australasian wide organization.  

The Eczema Association of New Zealand Inc supports and educates Eczema sufferers and caregivers, along with the wider community, in all aspects of Eczema and its impact. It offers a membership where an individual can avail of different facilities. 

20) The Psoriasis and Eczema Association (Norway)

Founded in 1962 Psoriasis and Eczema Association is a nationwide interest organization in Norway for people with psoriasis, atopic eczema, other skin diseases, and psoriatic arthritis. The Organisation has approximately 5000 members which are further divided into 19 counties and 45 local teams.

The Organisation works towards its key objective of disbursing knowledge and educating the crowd about the conditions and treatment method for skin diseases especially eczema and psoriasis. This apart their objective drives towards ensuring that every effected individual should avail of proper treatment and also works on new researches in the field.

One can be a part of the team to help the cause of eczema or can become a member of this group to get support related to the mentioned skin diseases.

21)EczémaQuébec

Eczéma Québec  is a network of doctors, nurses, allied health care professionals, trainees and patients under The McGill University Center for Excellence for Atopic Dermatitis (COE AD) that includes:
• Jewish General Hospital
• St. Mary’s Hospital
• McGill University Health Center

22) Dermatology Society of Singapore

Founded under the umbrella of Singapore Medical Association way back in 1960 The Dermatological Society of Singapore got established as an independent society in 1972.  
The Society conducts various activities to achieve its objectives of advancing the knowledge and practice of dermatology, promoting research in dermatology, promoting regional and international co-operation in dermatology, acquiring and publishing literature and scientific works, it also organizes conferences, seminars, conventions as one of the major role of the society is providing continuous medical education for medical practitioners in the field of dermatology. 

23) Atopika

Atopika is an Institute in the Republic of Slovenia located in central Europe dedicated to Educating, Counselling, and Support for Patients with Atopic Dermatitis. The institute was founded by Tina Butcher to share her knowledge and personal experience with parents of children, adolescents, and adult patients with atopic dermatitis. 

The founder also Counsels (in person and through social networks) and educates people based on the latest scientific knowledge, with the aim of alleviating disease symptoms and improving the quality of life of the patient and her family.

The Institute also works in raising public awareness of the disease and on prevention of discrimination and stigmatization of Eczema sufferer

24) aha! Swiss Allergy Centre

aha! Swiss Allergy Centre is an ISO-certified non-profit foundation, that is active throughout Switzerland which is recognized by ZEWO. The Centre excels in the field of allergy and focuses on the reactions of the airways, digestive system and skin to environmental irritants.

The Centre offers a range of services right from advising individuals and training courses through to prevention projects and campaigns for the population at large. These offerings are made possible by our widespread network and close cooperation with leading experts and professional bodies in the relevant spheres.

aha! Swiss Allergy Centre supports the people affected by allergy across the country which is more than 3 million people by providing them valuable information. This information is intended to help people get back to their normal and happy life.

25) The European umbrella organization for psoriasis movements

Founded in November 1988 The European umbrella organization for psoriasis movements (EUROPSO) is a federation of psoriasis patients’ associations based in the geographic region of Europe.  

As an umbrella organization and as a Member of IFPA they work closely with the worldwide psoriasis movements – the International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA), the United States-based National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) and to the Nordic Psoriasis alliance (NORDPSO).

They work towards raising awareness of the psycho-social, medical and financial needs of psoriasis patients, and influence political and administrative policy and decision-makers.

So that concludes the list wherein we tried to give maximum information about the different supports groups and associations that help in improving the lives of people with eczema and their caregivers.

Table of Content

• • • Introduction
    • What causes a flare?
    • Preventing Eczema Flares
    • Treating Eczema Flares
    • When to see a doctor?

Introduction

Flare is a term commonly associated with Eczema. What is a Flare? A ‘flare’ or ‘flare-up’ is a term used in both medical and non-medical literature to refer to an exacerbation of a disease. Once someone has a flareup they start searching for a remedy to cure the flares. But perhaps it is more important to know what caused the flareup in the first place because as the adage goes “Prevention is better than cure.” Usually, Eczema flares are caused by some triggers.  There is a list of commonly known triggers. Avoiding these common triggers can prevent a flare-up and the associated symptoms.  Once you know what triggers flare your eczema, the best thing to do is to avoid those flares.

What Causes a Flare?

“What caused my Eczema to flare”, this is a question that bothers Eczema sufferers the most. It is very important for each individual to determine what causes their Eczema to flare or in other words what are the triggers that affect them the most. Usually, triggers are something that you encounter such as a certain type of clothing or something in the weather such as pollen or something that you have consumed.  Triggers are not the same for every individual. Different triggers may cause a flare in different people. Some of the most common triggers are intense sweating, scratchy woolen clothes, pet dander, hot or cold weather, harsh soaps, and cleansers.

It’s very hard to say accurately what is the exact cause of eczema for an individual. Probably the genes play a vital role. If your parents are prone to Eczema flares, you may be, too. Another reason could be a weak immune system that fails to defend the body from attacks of external factors ultimately causing a flare. This is common for both Atopic Dermatitis and Contact Dermatitis wherein the former is more thought of chronic condition and the later though not chronic as Atopic Dermatitis but occurs only when your skin touches an irritant. Nevertheless, both types get flares from Eczema triggers.

Eczema Flares are common in babies and kids too. Eczema Flares are more troublesome at younger ages because babies have very sensitive skin and it is hard to prevent children from scratching themselves. Quite often children grow out of Eczema as they grow up. It is very well known that Eczema cannot be cured. However, Eczema can be managed by reducing the number and severity of Eczema flare-ups.

How to effectively manage Eczema Flare-ups?

As mentioned earlier it is very important to try to reduce Eczema flareups by knowing and avoiding your triggers.

Prevention Measures to avoid Eczema Flares

Avoid Irritants: There are certain products that cause Eczema flares when they touch your skin. These could be cleansers, perfumes, laundry detergents, soaps or food items. To know what product actually causes your Eczema to flare, you will have to track the products and do elimination trials which means that eliminate a product from your daily routine or diet for some time and see if that helps your Eczema. It is safer to switch to odorless and colorless soaps, cleansers, or laundry detergent.

Indoor Pollutants: Often tiny particles in the environment can cause your eczema to flare. Some of these are Dust, Cigarette Smoke, Pet Dander, Mould, etc. It is always good to maintain hygiene at home and work. Dust regularly, avoid pets if you are allergic to them, quit smoking or hanging out with those who do.

Clothing: One of the common triggers and perhaps the closest one that irritates your skin are your clothes. Avoid Scratchy woolen clothes, wear breathable fibers avoiding multiple layers or the heavy ones which make you sweat.

If your skin type is dry take extra efforts to keep it moist. Use body lotion soon after the bath, use moisturizer two or three times a day. Maintain a good humidity level in your bedroom while sleeping to keep the air moist. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated.

Winter: Dry air combined with indoor heating systems robs the moisture from skin making it dry and more prone to eczema flares. Use a thick moisturizer immediately after a shower to lock moisture in the skin, avoid hot baths and keep it short (use lukewarm water). Avoid rubbing your body with rough towels, pat dry instead. Use a humidifier to maintain the humidity level and curb dry heat pumped by the heating systems.

Treating Eczema Flares

Topical Steroids: Over the counter steroid creams are vital in reducing the red, itchy flares. If they don’t work you may need a stronger dose that can be availed with the help of a physician.

Moisturise: Keep your skin moisturized as much as you can. It softens your skin relieving pain and reducing the eczema flare especially if it is caused by dry skin. Have plenty of water and other liquids to keep your skin hydrated.

Take a Bath: A look warm bath may give you relief during flares. But remember, keep the bath short (not more than 10 mins). Apply moisturizer soon after your bath so as to seal the moisture of the skin and preventing it from drying.

Avoid Scratching: Scratching usually damages the skin, which can itself cause more flares to occur. Try to reduce scratching whenever possible. You could try gently rubbing your skin with your fingers instead. Keep your skin covered with light clothing to reduce damage from habitual scratching.

Wet Wraps:  Designed for Eczema special medicated bandages, clothing or wet wraps can be used to cover the areas of flared skin. These bandages can be used over emollients or with topical corticosteroids to prevent scratching allowing the skin underneath to heal locking the skin moisture.

Antihistamines: If you have severe itching you can have a dose of Antihistamine as recommended by the physician especially during bedtime. Consider the side effects before consuming.

Care Plan: Maintain and follow a care plan created by either you or as recommended by your physician. It is very critical to take necessary action at the recommended time to overcome and manage flares effectively.

For timely recognition of flares and informed treatment decisions during clinic visits, guidelines advocate tracking of the disease by
a) monitoring possible triggers (e.g. allergens),
b) recording disease severity including specific symptoms and signs
c) response to therapy
Atopic dermatitis. The New England journal of medicine 2005; 352: 2314-24.

Manually maintaining detailed records of the triggers that you are being exposed to can be time-consuming. Also, it is important to record the regimen you are following and how well you are adhering to it. Traditionally people have maintained a paper diary to keep these records. Recently Health-Tech Companies have come up with Eczema Managing apps available that allow you to maintain digital records, tracking your regimens and triggers.

Visit a physician:

If your Flares don’t respond to your care plan, do not hesitate to visit your General physician. The Physician may recommend other topical or oral and may also recommend a referral to a dermatologist who can take a few tests and prescribe recommended medications.

GET IN CONTROL OF YOUR ECZEMA

Use our AI tool to check the severity of Eczema and keep track of your Eczema progress.

Sunlight and Eczema

One of the challenges faced by people suffering from Eczema is the uncertainty in the timings of flares. For most people, Eczema flares show up without any prior warnings. While there is no complete cure for Atopic Dermatitis, knowing the triggers that evoke your symptoms may help in reducing the frequency of flares. Most people have their flares in winters and dry climate. Some people find that their eczema improves with exposure to sunlight while others experience a worsening of their condition. When exposed to sunlight, overheating may lead to excess sweating which when dries up leaves behind its salt content giving rise to itch and scratch cycle resulting in eczema flares. The type of Eczema which worsens when exposed to sunlight is called as photosensitive eczema.  

Tips to Tackle sun  

• Use an Eczema Safe Sunscreen with suitable SPF, when in sun for an extended period. 
• Leave a gap between applications of emollient and sunscreen to avoid diluting the sunscreen 
• Don’t be in the sun if it is strong especially between 11:00 am to 3:00 PM  
• Use Hats, Shades and breathable cloths which can protect you from the sun but not heavy which may cause you to sweat. 
• UV rays as a treatment for Eczema

In some cases, it is found that sun exposure improves eczema symptoms but the challenge is that you should be careful and do it in control. Studies reveal that exposure to sunlight triggers the release of a compound in the skin that alleviates the inflammation thereby easing the symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis.  

UV radiations from the sun can have damaging side effects too, including burning, aging and raising the risk of skin cancer. The trick here is not to overdo it. Sun exposure leads to increased vitamin D production, which can be great for the health of the skin. 

Due to the benefits of UV on eczema, it is used as a therapy wherein artificial UV waves very similar to the one produced by the sun are used to heal eczema flares. Exposure to UV waves has several benefits to the skin such as alleviating inflammation, inducing vitamin D, reducing itch, increasing the capability of the skin to tolerate foreign particles, etc. This therapy for Eczema using UV waves is called as phototherapy or Ultraviolet therapy for Eczema. 

Treatment 

Generally, dermatologist prescribes you phototherapy and is recommended only when all other treatment like applying emollients, steroids and other medications remain ineffective. The duration of the treatment depends upon the severity of the eczema symptoms. One is advised to apply moisturizer all over the body before exposure to UV lights.  The sessions may be reduced depending upon the response that one shows to UV therapy and can be stopped ultimately with a reduced cycle of once or twice a week. 

GET IN CONTROL OF YOUR ECZEMA

Use our AI tool to check the severity of Eczema and keep track of your Eczema progress.

Dry skin

The skin is the largest organ and the outermost layer of the body. It acts as a barrier to entry for foreign particles and is made up of cells containing water. Depending on our actions and surrounding conditions, pores in our skin allow water to evaporate. Weather conditions affect our skin and are hardest to control. Extreme weather conditions whether extreme heat or extreme cold and extremely dry or extremely humid, have a direct impact on people suffering from Eczema. In this article, we shall discuss the implications of dry weather conditions for Eczema sufferers.  

One of the most visible symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis is dry and scaly skin. It is well known that this condition in eczema worsens when the skin dries up. Dry weather combined with low temperatures especially in winters further worsens this condition causing eczema to flare. In other words, dryness acts as a trigger to cause a flare. Even people without eczema have an urge to scratch on waking up in dry weather.  

It is very important for people suffering from eczema to retain skin moisture. When the weather is extremely dry, the air in the environment steals the moisture from the skin, drying it out and triggering an eczema flare-up. Moreover, alternating between cold and dry climate, when outdoors and indoors, can aggravate eczema symptoms. Often people find their dermatitis symptoms on parts of the body that are exposed to the weather elements.  

How to manage eczema in dry weather? 

The best course to manage Eczema in extreme weather conditions is to make changes to your lifestyle. The quicker you adapt to the weather, the lesser the effect on Eczema. Custom care regimens given by doctors for individuals should take into account the effect of weather that the individual is exposed to.  

Moisturizing strategy 

One of the most effective, easy and cheap treatments is to use moisturizers abundantly. Moisturize skin at least twice a day. Lock the moisture in the skin to help hydration by applying moisturizer right after a bath on wet skin. This will help repair the skin barrier. Change your moisturizer strategy, especially in dry winter, use thick moisturizer instead of lotions (e.g. Petroleum jelly) soon after the bath and give a good amount of time for absorption. Though it may be tedious and time-consuming it is an effective strategy. Cover your hands and face with moisturizer before dropping out in the cold petroleum jelly and emollient can be used to cover the lips. 

Bathing  

Hot water baths heat up your body resulting in skin moisture being lost due to evaporation. Also, sudden changes in temperature may irritate skin. Use lukewarm water for bathing and keep baths short. Avoid harsh soaps with fragrance dye and alcohol, which can further dry and irritate the skin, rather use moisturizing soap. Moisturize immediately after a shower so that you can retain and lock the moisture. 

Comfortable clothes 

Use natural and fabrics and always try to dress in layers so that you can respond to changes in temperature. Do not dress too warm so as to cause a sweat which worsens Eczema giving rise to scratch and itch cycle. Avoid harsh and scratchy clothes especially woolen clothes which people wear to seek protection from cold.  

Humidifier 

Generally during dry and cold weather, people use heaters and the heating system pumps in lot of hot air into the room. This hot air irritates eczema affected skin increasing the chance to flare. Use Humidifier to maintain the humidity indoors.  50% relative humidity is considered ideal for keeping eczema affected skin moist. Keep your house environment comfortable maintaining the temperature and humidity level so as to get sound sleep. 

Consume Liquids  

Even though you don’t feel thirst keep drinking water as our body tends to lose water via various processes as it is made up of 70% of water. Consuming liquids not only protect your skin from dry weather but also beautifies, gives a glow and keeps your skin supple and healthy. 

GET IN CONTROL OF YOUR ECZEMA

Use our AI tool to check the severity of Eczema and keep track of your Eczema progress.