Finding Information on Eczema

Finding inforamtion on eczema can be challenging, so I've listed below some places I have found to be excellent sources of information:

Eczema: Frequently Asked Questions Frequently Asked Questions. The National Society provides answers to some frequentlyasked questions.

EczemaNet Dermatologist-reviewed information about the different types of eczema, diagnosis, and available treatment options.

National Eczema Association for Science and Education NEASE(sm) NEASE works to improve the health and the quality of life of persons living withatopic dermatitis/eczema.

International Eczema-Psoriasis Foundation: Actively helping Eczema & Psoriasis Sufferers an organization whose mission is to gather in one place, available information found on the web, in books and articles concerning the often confusing terms dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis.

DERMATITIS-LTD III - Psoriasis, Eczema, and Dermatitis Picture and Lifestyle Treatment Information:Dermatitis-Ltd III effectively improves the appearance of seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis.

History of Eczema

Many cultures used herbs as medicinal preparations. A cup of chamomile tea can help soothe inflammations and fight infections. It also is a botanical that can dispel worms. The flowers can be made into a salve which has become a popular treatment for a wide variety of skin disorders, including eczema, bedsores, post radiation therapy skin inflammation, and contact dermatitis (e.g., poison ivy). Infusing the flowers in sweet almond oil, and then applying topically has helped to sooth sunburns.

The Three Degrees Of Eczema

Eczema runs its course through three distinct phases: acute, sub acute, and chronic.

Symptoms associated with the acute stage of eczema include pain, heat, tenderness, and possible itching. The affected areas are characterized by extreme redness and drainage at the lesion site .

The sub acute phase of eczema includes symptoms associated with skin redness and crusting; however, there is no extreme swelling. People in the sub acute phase tend to complain about the symptom of itching more than the pain.

Individuals with lesions developed over three months are referred to as having chronic eczema. Itching is a predominant symptom in this phase as well and scratching causes the lesion to worsen.

Individuals with atopic eczema will find that their symptoms tend to worsen in the winter months due to decreased humidity in the home or office.