Facts About Eczema Natural Treatment Methods

By George Wagner


The term eczema refers to a group of medical conditions that result in inflammation or irritation of the skin. Although there are many types of eczema, the most common type is referred to as atopic dermatitis also known by the name atopic eczema. This one refers to a group of diseases that have an inherited tendency of causing other allergic conditions like hay fever and asthma.

Many Americans are affected by this illness. Approximately between 10 and 20 percent of the infant population is affected, while the adult population has up to 3 percent of all people affected. As such, research in alternative and conventional medicine has been ongoing to find an effective cure for the problem. The illness is outgrown by infants by the time they reach the age of ten. However, that is not always true as some children continue to be affected even at older ages. With proper eczema natural treatment, the illness can be controlled effectively.

The disease can affect the whole body or a specific part. Either way, wherever it occurs, it almost always causes an itchy sensation. Itching may precede the rush, but when the rush finally appears, it affects wrists, feet, hands, knees, backs, and faces mostly. The areas that are affected look thickened and scaly and are often dry. In people with light skins, the place appears reddish initially before turning brown in color.

Determination of the exact causes of this condition has not been done yet. However, physicians link it to an overreaction of the immune system. The overreaction can be caused by a number of irritants. Symptoms that are observed are a result of the immune system response. Prevalence is highest among people with family histories of asthma and other allergies. The condition has also been known to be caused by certain conditions and substances.

No specific tests exist for the diagnosis of eczema. Medical practitioners such as primary care providers, dermatologists, and pediatricians can make a diagnosis by inspecting the skin visually and coupling it with asking the patient some questions. Tests for allergies may be done in people with allergies to determine specific triggers or irritants that caused the problem.

Infections can result if itching is not treated. Therefore, many options of treatment aim at preventing and relieving itching. Dry skin should be moisturized with natural oils like coconut oil. Oils must be applied when the skin is damp like when one has just taken a shower. Damp skin promotes moisture retention.

Another natural way of treating the condition is eating a healthy diet. One should eat a raw food diet that has a lot of organic foods. Processed food like gluten, sugar, alcohol, dairy, and caffeine should be avoided. Tests should be run to determine if any specific food needs to be avoided. One should also drink a lot of water daily. Sixty four ounces of water a day is recommendable.

Another major cause associated with the condition is body toxicity. People consume toxins every and it is important to indulge in detoxification often. Some of the ways detoxification can be accomplished are diet, exercise, and massage. Physical exercise leads to sweating which eliminates a lot of toxins. Herbal tea and other supplements can also help.




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