An estimated 31.6 million Americans are living with eczema, an inflammatory skin condition that’s characterized by dry, sensitive, itchy skin with dry, rough, scaly patches and sometimes crusty or oozing sores.
This condition hits both men and women equally, and usually develops in the first months of life. It’s most common in children, affecting up to 10 percent of infants at some point, but it can carry on through adulthood or develop for the first time in teenage years or as an adult.
Flare-ups are usually caused by specific triggers, which can vary from person to person. However, there are certain elements that eczema sufferers can avoid to minimize symptoms:
Avoid Temperature Extremes
For some sufferers, cold weather can cause breakouts, because low humidity and cold temperatures can dry skin out, leading to cracking and itching. If you live in a cool climate, use a moisturizer or medicated ointment to keep skin from drying out. Indoors, a humidifier can increase moisture levels in the air that can get dried out by heating systems. Maintain indoor humidity levels between 45 and 55 percent to ease your symptoms.
For other sufferers, the heat and humidity of summer can trigger eczema flare-ups. When the mercury rises, avoid spending too much time outdoors. Excessive sweating and overheating are a recipe for dermatologic disaster -- both triggers for eczema flare-ups. When you are attempting to beat the heat, find shady areas to relax so that you don’t overheat.
Avoid Dust Mites