According to the National Eczema Association, 1 in 10 people in the United States suffers from eczema. Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by dry, itchy, and scaly skin that may ooze clear fluid when scratched. It is linked to an autoimmune disorder, and its symptoms can be triggered by allergens, irritants, and environmental conditions.

Living with eczema is challenging because it takes a toll on the mental health of the patient as well. That said, there are ways you can manage eczema and lead a normal life.

Managing Eczema Through Diet

A healthy diet including a variety of fruits and vegetables plays a vital role in managing eczema. A healthy diet can act as a preventive measure in infants and children with a family history of eczema. Including multivitamins, vitamin D, and iron in your daily routine is also beneficial.

Following a healthy lifestyle is very important. Always remember to stay hydrated and avoid smoking, alcohol, and energy drinks.

Be mindful of allergens in the food that can flare up eczema.

Exercising and Eczema

Exercising regularly has great health benefits. It can be a little difficult for eczema patients to exercise due to irritation by heat and sweat. In such cases, try and find temperature-controlled climates like the indoor gym.

Swimming is also a great way to work your muscles. An added benefit for eczema patients is that chlorinated water can decrease skin inflammation. But don’t forget to rinse off chlorinated water and immediately moisturize your skin.

A few exercise tips recommended by the NEA include:

• Drink water before, during, and after the exercise.
• Choose clothing that doesn’t irritate your skin when the body heats up.
• Take small breaks and hydrate.
• Use your own shampoo and shower gels in the gym.

Manage Your Anxiety

• Find people who will empathize with what you are going through and talk to them. You can also join support groups or talk to a psychologist.
• When you feel upset, do something you love, like painting, reading, and going on a walk or a picnic.
• Don’t try to hold in all your emotions all the time. It’s okay to cry and let it all out. But remember, you are more than this, and you can cope with it.

Traveling with Eczema

It is better to contact hotels ahead of time and inquire whether they have accommodations catered toward eczema patients. Or you can ask them to laundered sheets and towels in fragrant-free detergents and avoid dryer sheets. Ask for the bedding without feathers and other things that can flare up eczema.

Pack your own towel and bring along your own toiletries. It is also better if you pack your own moisturizers and other creams.

Eczema Prescription

Many medications are prescribed for eczema, including oral immunosuppressants and antihistamines, topical antimicrobials, topical corticosteroids creams and ointments, and topical non-steroidal medication.

Whatever treatment your doctor has prescribed, don’t forget to take it on time.  

If you have active eczema, book an appointment with Dr. John D. Bray, an expert eczema treatment doctor in Midland, TX. He is also an experienced pulmonologist and allergy treatment doctor.