So, your doctor has told you that you have eczema. What do you do now? There is no cure for eczema, but there are treatments that can make it bearable and reduce flare-ups. Start by asking your eczema doctor for suggestions and try following these tips to treat eczema when it appears.

Use Mild Soap and Moisturizer

People with eczema need to wash with a mild soap or soap substitute that doesn’t unnecessarily dry out the skin. After the skin is clean and dry, you should apply a moisturizing lotion, cream or ointment – once directly after your shower and once more during the day. If your eczema is severe, sometimes a bath with a small amount of bleach will kill the bacteria on your skin and give you some relief. Avoid hot baths and showers though because they can dry you out.

Try a Humidifier

Dry air is a problem for those with scaly skin. A room humidifier can add needed moisture to the air and help keep the problem from cropping up.

Manage Your Stress Level

Stress is a common cause of flare-ups. Prevent eczema by relaxing with friends, working on a favorite hobby, listening to peaceful music or trying prayer and meditation. You should also get regular exercise and take care of your personal hygiene.

Treat Eczema Medically

There are several medical treatments that your eczema doctor may recommend to treat your symptoms. Steroid creams and ointments such as hydrocortisone are sometimes helpful to clear up patches. Over-the-counter versions work well for mild cases, but if your flare-up is more severe, you may need a prescription dose.

If a steroid cream isn’t enough, your doctor may suggest an oral corticosteroid. While they work well, it’s important to follow medical instructions when using these medications. Antihistamines are another oral medicine that can help you relieve itching. Ask your doctor whether you should use an over-the-counter pill or a prescription medicine. Some may make you drowsy, but many newer versions will not.

One last treatment for eczema is ultraviolet light therapy. Exposing severely itchy skin to ultraviolet light may help clear it up for a time.

Just because you have eczema, doesn’t mean you have to suffer through the symptoms. There are several ways to treat it and prevent it. Follow the above tips to continue with a better quality of life.

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