12 Things I Wish I’d Known About Eczema

One NEA community member shares the things she wishes she would have known about severe eczema and related allergies.*

1. There are several kinds of allergy testing that can identify different sensitivities including prick/scratch test, blood test and patch test
2. Need to find all allergens including food, environment, chemical and metal to do full avoidance and heal
3. Bleach baths/vinegar baths cut down infection rate and speed healing
4. Wet wrapping overnight keeps skin moist and promotes healing. Vanicream™ Moisturizing Ointment is a wonderful product and is listed as being free of top 10 allergens by Dermatitis Academy
5. Contact allergens (example nickel and propylene glycol) can also be found in foods and medications — Check active and inactive ingredients in all medications for allergens, even prescriptions
6. Vitamin C is a natural antihistamine
7. Whole foods are best, when in doubt cut out all processed and canned foods
8. Keep inflamed skin covered and moisturized at all times and cut fingernails short every day to reduce scratching
9. Finding the cause of a problem is better than covering it up short term with medication — Learn about topical steroid withdrawal or red skin syndrome
10. Be informed and proactive about this condition — Read and do research on reputable websites such as Dermatitis Academy or National Eczema Association
11. Keep personal copies of testing so you can share with other doctors you may consult
12. There is a Facebook group, Eczema, Contact Dermatitis, and Patch Testing Alliance

– Amanda D.

*The recommendations contained in the Scratch Pad are those of the contributor.  NEA provides health information from a variety of sources; this information is not intended as medical advice.  Persons with questions regarding specific symptoms or treatments should consult a professional health-care provider. Do you have eczema-related advice?  Share your tips on our Scratch Pad!

Read: Eczema and Allergies Case Studies: Start With Skin Care