If you suffer from eczema, sometimes referred to as atopic dermatology, you probably know the stress of having red, itchy, and dry, flaky skin. As per the Cleveland Clinic, eczema affects around 15 % of Americans. It can affect everyone, but it's often seen in children. Certain people suffer from eczema during their early years but get rid of the condition when they age.

Eczema's severity can vary depending on the individual. Certain people suffer from mild eczema and deal with minor dryness and itchiness. However, eczema can be extremely severe and can even cease responding to treatments. The cause of eczema is unknown; unfortunately, there is no cure. However, it doesn't mean you have to endure a life of intense flare-ups. Eczema can be difficult to manage; however, there is a relief.

Switch to another Treatment

No one treatment will alleviate the symptoms of eczema. However, many treatments can soothe your dry skin that is itchy and dry. It's important to remember that a method that works for one individual might not be effective for someone else. Therefore, you might need to try different methods until you come across the one that suits you. If you do not see any results from treatments, there's no need to keep it on. There are many alternatives to lessen your skin's inflammation; it's not necessary to keep a treatment that isn't working.

Use Phototherapy

Some people have side effects due to prescription steroids, nonsteroidal, or biologics. The swelling, redness, and soreness could be experienced at the injection site using biologics. Some of the side reactions of oral steroids can include headaches, dizziness, and headaches, as well as trouble sleeping and weight growth. The side effects of crisaborole and TIMS include burning and stinging at the place of application. If you're experiencing extreme side effects due to medication or they've been discontinued, your physician may suggest another treatment. Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, might be able to alleviate your symptoms.

The exposure of your face to ultraviolet (UV) energy could alleviate eczema symptoms for some individuals. This kind of treatment uses narrowband UV (UVB) light sources to reduce itching and swelling. The use of light therapy is beneficial in treating both localized and broad eczema. It's estimated that around 70% of people notice improvements in their skin following phototherapy. The negative consequences of light therapy are sunburn, premature skin aging, and melanomas.

Take Good Care of Your Skin At Home

It's also beneficial to take good care of your skin at home. The more self-care steps you implement more effectively your skin will react to treatments. Avoid bathing in hot water because it dries out your skin. Make sure you take warm baths or showers instead. Apply body oil or lotion after baths, showers as well as swimming. Apply a moisturizer on your skin at least two times each throughout the day. If you can prevent drying, the skin could get less itchy and dry.

The things you put on your skin could also cause eczema. Avoid harsh or strong perfumes and soaps. Utilize a humidifier to keep your skin moist, and beware of any fabric that causes itching or rash. If you can, try not to scratch your skin to avoid the redness. To stop itching, use an anti-itch cream with oral or topical steroids.

Consider Alternative Treatments

It is also possible to combine traditional and alternative treatments to bring severe eczema under control. An example of this is the use of Acupuncture. Acupuncture is a form of alternative therapy to traditional Chinese medicine. It treats various problems, including skin disorders such as acne, eczema, and Psoriasis.

This treatment involves the introduction of needles that are fine into various areas of the body. It helps to heal by increasing endorphins release. Further research is required to determine if Acupuncture can aid in reducing the symptoms of eczema. Should you choose to test Acupuncture, you must keep your regular treatments going.

Consult an Expert

As eczema is an extremely common skin condition, you may consult your doctor about prescription-only cream. Even if the doctor is experienced in treating the condition, they might not be familiar with dealing with severe cases of eczema. If you're in the care of a family physician, but your eczema has stopped responding in the face of treatment, it may be time to visit an expert. Consult your primary physician to suggest a dermatologist that specializes in eczema. Eczema is also a manifestation of other skin diseases. A dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis of eczema provided by your primary physician and determine if there are other skin disorders like rosacea or Psoriasis.