By Erica Heilman
Periods of intensely itchy and inflamed eczema are called 'flares', and are most often a response to certain triggers. Though there is no known cure for eczema and its irritating flares, there are many lifestyle strategies and medications that can prevent or minimize the number and severity of flares.
In very young children, flares most often occur on the face, elbows, knees, and wrists. In older children and adults, the areas of irritation will more often appear on the hands, chest, neck, backs of knees, ankles, and insides of elbows.
Stopping Flares Before They Start: Avoiding Triggers
Of course the best way to control eczema is to try and avoid triggers altogether. Learning exactly which substances or conditions cause flare-ups and avoiding those triggers becomes a very important part of eczema management.
Each person's triggers are different, but there are a number of common triggers to watch out for. Materials that irritate the skin, like wool, can cause flares. Extreme temperatures (high or low), infection, and stress can also lead to flares. People with eczema are often sensitive to soaps, perfumes, smoke, and paints, as well as allergens, which often include pollen, pets, and certain food allergies. Keeping a diary of flare-ups will help you to identify your own personal triggers.
Avoidance techniques to try:
- Avoid foods that cause eczema flares
- Avoid soaps that contain fragrances or deodorants
-
Copyright 2009 NBC Health
Click here to read the rest of the article at HealthVideo.com
