Eczema in adults

While children are affected by eczema in much greater numbers, about 7% of Australian adults have some form of eczema condition. Some types of eczema only appear much later in life. Oddly enough, many adults ignore the symptoms of rashes or itchiness and fail to get a doctor’s advice which only aggravates the condition.

Not all eczema looks the same. Nor are there specific tests to determine the presence of eczema. A doctor’s diagnosis is essential to treat and manage the skin condition successfully.

In adults more than children, external factors seem to contribute to the onset of eczema symptoms. These can include irritants and allergens like dust mites, pollens, chemicals, food additives, tobacco smoke or animal dander. Apart from avoiding those factors, a course of treatment may be important to ease discomfort.

A Daily Skin Care regimen can help manage a skin condition and keep flares at bay and is an important part of the treatment of eczema.

Making some small changes on an everyday basis can also help. A healthy diet rich in natural (unprocessed) foods and purified water, regular exercise and resolving stress or emotional issues all contribute to a good start to better living.

What’s more, eliminate certain common irritants (possibly allergens) to avoid getting the early signs and symptoms of eczema.

Try to Avoid…

• Ordinary soaps. Use moisturising aqueous creams for cleansing.
• Long hot baths. 10 minutes will do, lukewarm with bath oil.
• Vigorous towel rubs. Dry yourself by gently patting.
• Perfumes and talcs that could irritate.
• Certain foods. Reduce citrus fruit, refined fats and white sugar.
• Acid sources like coffee, alcohol, red meat, raw garlic.
• Stress. Emotional and physical stress can be triggers.
• Synthetic fibre or wool clothing. Wear 100% cotton.
• Cleaning or vacuuming. Wear a mouth mask.
• Handling solvents, detergents or chemicals. It is recommended to use gloves to handle these agents.
• Handling plants or soils. Use gloves.

What is eczema?

Breaking the cycle