Eliminating the Itch: How to Deal with Eczema

Eczema is a chronic skin condition that makes those suffering from it feel extremely insecure, especially when it affects visible regions of the body. Understanding this condition and how to appropriately treat it is crucial, so we’re here to shed light on some helpful remedies and ways to manage eczema.

What is Eczema? 

Eczema is an allergy-related chronic skin condition, prevalent among children. Eczema causes regions of the skin to become irritated, itchy, cracked, and rough. Essentially, eczema distorts the function of the skin as a barrier, causing the skin to become more sensitive, prone to infection, and dry as a result.

What causes it?

Eczema doesn't have a recognised cause in its entirety. However, medical experts agree that a mixture of hereditary and environmental factors is to blame. Food allergies, medication allergies, and the usage of latex goods are a few of them. Certain chemicals or allergens may also cause the development of eczema. While fur from pets, dust mites, and pollen from flowers may also be responsible for its genesis too. 

What are the symptoms?

Eczema appears in a variety of ways, such as itchy, dry skin patches and black blotches, which can occasionally become crimson in colour. The condition inflames the skin chronically, presenting therefore several complications that can significantly impact quality of life. One major issue is sleep disturbance, as the persistent itching and discomfort often intensify at night, leading to insomnia and fatigue. Additionally, the skin's compromised barrier function makes it prone to superimposed infections, including bacterial, viral, and fungal, which can exacerbate symptoms and complicate treatment. 

Chronic scratching and inflammation may also result in skin hyperpigmentation and scarring, altering the skin's appearance and texture. 

Beyond the physical manifestations, eczema can take a substantial psychological toll, leading to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem due to the visible nature of the condition and the ongoing struggle to manage symptoms. 

How common is it?

Generally, children are highly at risk of contracting eczema. An estimated 10 - 20% of babies are likely to develop eczema, though almost half of them outgrow it or it considerably improves. The condition affects both men and women equally but it’s more common in people who have a personal or family history of asthma, environmental allergies, or food allergies.

How do you treat Eczema?

There are treatments that may be used to control the inflammation and lessen its negative consequences. These consist of:

• Steroids (in the case of elderly individuals, steroid creams or pills)

• Antihistamines, directed to treat itching and prevent allergies

• Moisturisers to keep the skin hydrated and lessen the effects of dry skin

• Skin-friendly soaps to treat the itch and skin patches
  
  

At Berry Health we have a team of medical doctors who are ready to help you with eczema. When you book a consultation with us, a doctor will assess your case and prescribe a tailored treatment plan. Meds will be delivered to your doorstep wherever you are in Ghana. It’s not too late to seek help, better days are ahead!