Eczema is a skin condition that primarily affects infants and children. It is a type of dermatitis which could be chronic or sometimes relapsing. Eczema is skin inflammation that can cause itchiness, redness, swelling, and pain, and can range from mild to severe. Although the exact cause is unknown, overactive immune systems are known to be responsible for eczema. However, it can also be genetic. Asthma and hay fever can also cause eczema. Other skin disorders or disease, infections, or loss of moisture are also known to trigger eczema.
The skin of children is more sensitive
The types of ezcema:
Contact dermatitis is caused when the skin comes into contact with the substances that harm the skin or set off allergies. The common triggers of this skin reaction are soaps, cosmetics, perfumes, and jewelry. Contact dermatitis can lead to infection if the area is repeatedly scratched and the area starts to ooze. This becomes a good place for bacteria and fungi to grow.
Dyshidrotic eczema causes blisters to form on your feet or hands. These blisters are itchy and can be filled with fluid. High-stress levels, allergies, excessive sweating, and staying for too long in water are the common causes of dyshidrotic eczema.
Nummular eczema manifests as circular spots or patches that form on the skin as a result of an injury, burn, or insect bites. These spots are often itchy and can be well defined. Nummular eczema is more common in adult men in their later ages, however, women in their middle ages also are at risk of developing it.
Seborrheic dermatitis generally occurs on the scalp, face, and chest. The common symptoms of this condition are scaly skin, red patches, and sometimes it could also appear in the form of dandruff on the scalp. Mild shampoos are generally recommended for treating this condition on the scalp.
Stasis dermatitis generally occurs when the blood circulation in veins is disrupted, and the blood leaks out of the vessels and into the skin. The most commonly affected areas are the legs. Swelling, dryness, and scaly texture are the common symptoms of stasis dermatitis. The condition is more common in women and adults who are in their fifties.
Foods that help manage eczema:
There are various natural remedies for eczema. Foods such as bananas, berries, salmon fish, sauerkraut juice, turmeric, lemonade, whole grains, probiotics, etc., can play a significant role in treating eczema naturally.
Beetroot is one of the highly recommended foods for managing eczema, it is said to boost liver detoxification and remove harmful chemicals that could trigger eczema. They are also one of the excellent purifiers of blood which promotes healthy skin. Vitamin C in beetroot can help in clearing skin blemishes caused by eczema.
Celery is filled with electrolytes and essential vitamins such as vitamin K and vitamin C, which are highly essential for promoting skin health. It is also a rich antioxidant that detoxifies the liver, which in turn can help improve the condition of eczema. Celery juice can also help in treating acne and psoriasis.
Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help fight inflammation related to eczema and other health conditions. It is also loaded with essential nutrients such as vitamin B and selenium, which protects and improves the overall condition of the skin. The other vital components of salmon fish also strengthen the immune system, which boosts the body’s natural ability to fight eczema from the inside.
Turmeric is one of the oldest remedies used in treating eczema and other skin disorders. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of turmeric reduce inflammation and help protect the skin from eczema. The natural antiseptic properties also inhibit any infections from eczema. Turmeric can help decrease blemishes, redness, and sooth the skin.
Probiotics. Foods containing probiotics or probiotic supplements contain good bacteria that are said to ease the symptoms of eczema. Probiotics also enrich the immune system, which could have been disrupted when the person is affected by eczema. Probiotics are also known to reduce inflammation, which is one of the symptoms of eczema. Yogurt is one of the best sources of probiotics.
Bananas are rich in vitamin A, which plays a vital role in moisturizing the skin and preventing dryness. Bananas are also loaded with essential fat that is used in many lotions that are used in treating eczema. Potassium in bananas also helps in soothing the effects of eczema.
Food can be used as a natural remedy in many other ways too, such as to treat conditions such as chronic diarrhea.
Foods to avoid:
While some foods can help manage the symptoms of eczema, others can trigger eczema and make it worse.
Listed below are some of the foods to avoid:
- Broccoli
- Dried fruits
- Citrus fruits
- Gluten or wheat
- Spices
- Tomatoes
While a healthy diet and lifestyle are vital in managing eczema, getting a proper diagnosis and treatment from a doctor is highly recommended. Especially when it comes to children, parents should not rely only on natural remedies to treat eczema. It could make the conditions worse. Natural remedies should only be used under a doctor’s supervision.
About the author:
Emylee is a wellness lifestyle writer. She loves sharing her thoughts and personal experiences related to natural remedies, yoga, and fitness through her writing. She currently writes for How To Cure. She can connect with others experiencing health concerns and help them through their recovery journeys through natural remedies.