The best way to control or at least reduce the symptoms of eczema is by taking the over-the-counter or prescription medications recommended by your doctor as well as making behavioral changes. Eczema medications help reduce the severity of symptoms such as itching and inflammation, while other treatments such as phototherapy can help reduce and even clear up eczema flare-ups.
Medication
The most effective way to manage eczema symptoms is by taking medications, along with make some behavioral changes. Eczema drugs fall into several categories: antihistamines, corticosteroids, antibiotics and immunosuppressants. There are several medications available that can help control and prevent eczema outbreaks.
Visit the Eczema Drugs section for more information.
Phototherapy
Light therapy involves utilizing ultraviolet light or sunlamps under a doctor’s supervision to help prevent the immune system’s exaggerated response that triggers the symptoms of eczema. Phototherapy, which requires a series of treatments, can help reduce and in some cases clear up eczema and prevent bacterial skin infections. Researchers have found that more than 80 percent of the patients with atopic dermatitis who were treated with phototherapy showed significant improvement, and in some cases, complete clearance within three weeks, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Lifestyle Changes
Behavioral modifications, such as taking steps to get a handle on stress can help make controlling eczema easier.
Destress
Stress can trigger or exacerbates eczema symptoms. Taking steps to ease anxiety, such as performing deep breathing exercises, yoga, meditation, and listening to relaxing music, can help reduce the chances you will experience an eczema occurrence.
Get Adequate Sleep
A lack of sleep induces stress, making your more vulnerable to a flare-up. Make getting a good night’s sleep a priority to help control the symptoms of eczema.
Soak the Skin
Applying a cold compress to the affected area and taking warm or lukewarm baths or showers to soak the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes can help ease itchiness.
