Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by redness, itching, dryness, and skin irritation. It can affect people of all ages but is more common in children. Eczema often develops in cycles, with periods of flare-ups followed by remission. Though not contagious, it can significantly affect quality of life due to persistent itching and discomfort.

Pathophysiology of Eczema

The development of eczema involves a complex interplay between genetics, immune system dysfunction, and environmental factors:

1. Skin Barrier Dysfunction: The skin’s natural barrier is weakened, allowing moisture to escape and making it more permeable to irritants and allergens.
2. Immune Dysregulation: Overactivity of the immune system causes increased levels of cytokines and inflammatory mediators like interleukins, leading to redness, swelling, and itching.
3. Allergic Response: Eczema often involves an abnormal response to environmental allergens, triggering inflammation.
4. Microbial Imbalance: Disruption of the skin microbiome can contribute to flare-ups. Staphylococcus aureus is commonly found on eczema-prone skin and can worsen symptoms.

Causes of Eczema

Eczema is multifactorial, with several contributing factors:

1. Genetics: A family history of eczema, asthma, or hay fever increases the likelihood of developing the condition. Mutations in the ‘filaggrin’ gene, which is crucial for maintaining the skin barrier, are often implicated.
2. Environmental Triggers: Exposure to allergens, pollutants, and irritants such as soaps, detergents, or certain fabrics.
3. Immune System Dysfunction: Hyperactivity of the immune system leads to an exaggerated response to allergens.
4. Climate: Cold, dry air or excessive heat and humidity can exacerbate symptoms.
5. Stress: Emotional stress can weaken the immune system, making symptoms worse.
6. Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels, especially during pregnancy or menstruation, may trigger eczema.

Preventative Measures for Eczema

While eczema cannot be fully prevented, these measures can reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups:

1. Maintain Skin Moisture: Use emollients or moisturizers daily to prevent dryness and strengthen the skin barrier.
2. Avoid Triggers: Identify and minimize exposure to allergens, irritants, or specific food sensitivities.
3. Gentle Skincare Routine: Use mild, fragrance-free soaps and avoid hot water during baths or showers.
4. Dietary Adjustments: Avoid foods that may trigger allergic reactions, such as dairy, nuts, or gluten, if identified as triggers.
5. Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation to reduce stress levels.

Triggers

Common triggers that can worsen eczema include:

• Allergens: Dust mites, pet dander, pollen, mould.
• Irritants: Harsh soaps, detergents, perfumes, and cleaning products.
• Clothing: Wool or synthetic fabrics that can irritate the skin.
• Weather: Extreme temperatures or sudden changes in humidity.
• Dietary Factors: Foods like dairy, eggs, soy, and nuts may trigger symptoms in some individuals.
• Infections: Skin infections or viral illnesses can exacerbate eczema.
• Hormonal Fluctuations: Changes during pregnancy, menstruation, or puberty.

Suppression of Eczema: Risks and Consequences

Using treatments that suppress eczema symptoms without addressing the underlying causes can lead to:

1. Shift of Disease: Suppression may push the condition deeper into the body, potentially triggering respiratory or autoimmune disorders such as asthma or allergies.
2. Rebound Effect: Symptoms may return with increased intensity once the treatment is stopped.
3. Secondary Infections: Suppression can weaken the skin’s ability to fight infections, increasing susceptibility to bacterial or fungal infections.
4. Emotional Impact: Chronic suppression without relief can lead to frustration and stress, further exacerbating the condition.

Homeopathic Remedies

Remedies for Dry and Itchy Eczema

1. Sulphur: For intensely itchy, dry, and scaly skin that worsens with heat or bathing. The skin may appear red, inflamed, and dirty-looking.
2. Graphites: Suitable for eczema with thickened, rough skin and honey-like oozing from cracks. Often affects folds of the skin, such as behind the ears or knees.
3. Arsenicum album: For dry, scaly patches with burning and itching. Symptoms worsen at night and improve with warmth.

Remedies for Weeping Eczema

4. Mezereum: For eczema with thick crusts and yellowish discharge, often accompanied by intense itching. Symptoms worsen with warmth and improve with cold air.
5. Petroleum: Indicated for eczema with deep cracks and bleeding, especially in cold weather. Skin feels rough and raw, often worse in winter.
6. Rhus toxicodendron: For vesicular eczema with oozing blisters, itching, and restlessness. Symptoms improve with warmth and movement.

Remedies for Chronic or Recurring Eczema

7. Psorinum: For chronic, recurring eczema with extreme dryness and itching. The individual feels worse in cold weather and prefers to stay covered.
8. Calcarea carbonica: For eczema in overweight individuals prone to excessive sweating. Often associated with fatigue and sensitivity to cold.
9. Kali sulphuricum: For yellowish, scaly eczema with sticky discharge. Symptoms worsen in warm environments.

Remedies for Emotional or Stress-Triggered Eczema

10. Ignatia amara: For eczema triggered by grief or emotional distress. Skin is dry and irritated, with symptoms improving with distraction.
11. Natrum muriaticum: Indicated for eczema linked to suppressed emotions, particularly grief or disappointment. Symptoms often worsen with heat or sun exposure.

Remedies for Eczema in Children

12. Chamomilla: For irritable children with eczema accompanied by intense itching and restlessness. Symptoms improve with cold applications.
13. Pulsatilla: For mild-mannered children with weeping eczema that worsens in heat. Symptoms improve with fresh air and soothing care.
14. Silicea: For children with sensitive skin, prone to recurring infections and eczema. Symptoms improve with warmth and worsen in cold weather.

For chronic condition like eczema, consulting a professional homeopath will help to address the root cause.

If you have tried and tested all the methods to get cured of eczema and are tired of getting no results or it is recurring, why not give Homeopathy a try and begin your healing journey today BOOK A FREE DISCOVERY CALL.