Eczema acupuncture support Anglesea
image by juan pablo serrano
Eczema acupuncture Anglesea
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin, eczema can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life.
Eczema or atopic dermatitis commonly develops in childhood and can continue unresolved into adulthood. Most often it stems from a family history of eczema. Eczema is not contagious and may often be linked to an overactive immune system.
Eczema may present a number of ways besides atopic dermatitis.
Contact dermatitis: triggered by irritants or allergens.
Dyshidrotic eczema: affects the hands and feet
Seborrheic eczema: affects the scalp
What are the symptoms of Eczema?
Itching: usually precedes a rash breakout. Can also be worse at night and disturb sleep.
Dry, scaly skin: rough or cracked skin can be common, and may even bleed.
Swelling or Inflammation: patches of eczema may feel warm, swollen and tender to touch.
Discoloured skin patches
Oozing or Crusting
Common Triggers of Eczema
Eczema triggers vary from person to person, but some common factors include:
Allergens: Dust mites, pollen, pet dander, and certain foods (e.g., dairy, eggs, nuts).
Irritants: Soaps, detergents, fragrances, and harsh chemicals.
Climate: Extreme temperatures, dry air, and sudden weather changes.
Diet: Spicy or processed foods can sometimes trigger flare-ups.
Infections: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can worsen eczema.
Lifestyle Factors: Lack of sleep, poor hydration, and stress.
How is Eczema treated?
Conventional treatment for eczema is predominantly symptom management as there is no known cure for eczema.
Topical treatments and creams: Cortisone (corticosteroid) creams and moisturisers are commonly prescribed to relieve flare ups and treat dryness and itching
Oral medications: antihistamines may be used to control itching. In some severe cases immunosuppressants are prescribed.
Lifestyle changes:
Avoiding triggers such as foods, soaps or cleaning products, even types of fabric.
Wearing natural and breathable fibres.
Using a humidifier.
The Connection Between Stress and Eczema
Stress is a known trigger for eczema. Heightened levels of stress hormones like cortisol suppress the immune system and weaken the skin’s natural barrier, making it more susceptible to flareups from irritants or allergens. With a lowered immune system stress can also lead to an increase of inflammation, which is a key part of the presentation of eczema. Not only that but eczema flare ups can cause further stress for the body and nervous system.
Who Is Affected by Eczema?
Eczema can affect people of all ages, but it is most common in:
Infants and Children: Eczema often appears in infancy and may improve or disappear with age.
Adults: Although less common, eczema can persist or re-emerge in adulthood.
People with Allergies: Those with a history of hay fever or asthma are more likely to develop eczema.
Genetic Predisposition: A family history of eczema increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chinese medicine
Chinese medicine may assist some clients suffering from autoimmune or stress conditions with:
The management of pain, stress and fatigue related to some autoimmune disorders, in consultation with other treating health practitioners
The management of pain, fatigue and nausea related to many chronic diseases
For more information about Chinese medicine, eczema or support with stress and autoimmune disease
