One NEA community member shares the things she wishes she would have known about severe eczema and related allergies.*
- There are several kinds of allergy testing that can identify different sensitivities including prick/scratch test, blood test and patch test
- Need to find all allergens including food, environment, chemical and metal to do full avoidance and heal
- Bleach baths/vinegar baths cut down infection rate and speed healing
- Wet wrapping overnight keeps skin moist and promotes healing. Vaniply ointment is a wonderful product and is listed as being free of top 10 allergens by Dermatitis Academy
- 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
- Vitamin C is a natural antihistamine
- Whole foods are best, when in doubt cut out all processed and canned foods
- Keep inflamed skin covered and moisturized at all times and cut fingernails short every day to reduce scratching
- 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
- Be informed and proactive about this condition — Read and do research on reputable websites such as Dermatitis Academy or National Eczema Association
- Keep personal copies of testing so you can share with other doctors you may consult
- 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
