Eczema
By Dr. Rita Louise, Thu Dec 8th

Eczema can best be described as a non-contagious skin condition,which is characterized by hot dry itchy skin, with symptoms thatoften fluctuate seasonally and even over the course of the day.Eczema typically begins in early childhood. Research indicatesthat may be genetically determined and studies show thatthere is often a family history of allergies, asthma, orhay fever. Children who experience may also suffer fromasthma or hay fever as well.

Like an allergy, tends to flair up when exposed tocertain triggers, especially mechanical irritants, allergens,emotional stress, heat and sweating. When exposed to anoffending situation, inflammation producing cells come tosurface of the skin and release chemicals, leaving the skin red,pealing and thickened. Sometimes tiny blisters form, rupture,weep and crust over.

Eczema most often appears in and round the creases of joints ofthe arms and legs and around trunk of the body. For some, italso emerges on their hands and on the sloes of their feet.Sufferers also experience an intense itching makes them want toscratch it, causing additional damage which can lead to bleedingand infection.

Solvents, chemicals, detergents, bleach, woolen clothing, skincare products that contain alcohol and certain soaps orfragrances are all considered mechanical irritant that can causeburning, itching or redness to the skin and bring about aflair-up. And while allergens, like food, pollens and pets, donot irritate the skin, they can also trigger a flair-up. Thesame holds true to emotional stress. Intense emotions such asanger and frustration can flair up symptoms. Many individualswith also do not tolerate extremely hot or coldtemperatures as well. High humidity can cause increasedsweating, while low humidity can dry the skin.

Recommendations For Wellness

The

key to controlling is prevention. Avoid or reduceyour exposure to things that can irritate your skin such ashousehold cleaners, detergents, certain soaps and wool clothing.

Use a moisturizer on your skin every day to help keep it softand flexible.

Don’t scratch even if it itches! Scratching can further irritatethe skin and can even cause the skin to break and crack, openingthe door to infection.

Take the time to identify your triggers. This can help you toavoid or limit your exposure to the offending item even better.If you think a food item is causing your problems, talk to yourdoctor about getting an allergy test or try an elimination dietto help you identify the offending product.

Be sure to dry your hands completely after you wash them.

Wear gloves when your hands will be exposed to anything that canirritate them.

Learn to manage your stress through regular exercise, breathingtechniques, biofeedback, meditation and yoga.

Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) has been shown to help reduce theinflammation, dryness and scaleness often associated witheczema. GLA can be found in evening primrose oil, borage oil andcurrant seed oil.

If your skin becomes infected, the herb Oregon grape has beenused for hundreds of years to treat infections and a variety ofskin problems. Natures Sunshine’s Golden Salve is a blend ofherbs, oils and beeswax that sooths and moisturizes rough,chafed, chapped skin.

A homeopathic remedy for may help relieve the itching andirritation associated with and dermatitis of the skin andscalp.

About the author:© Copyright Body, Mind & SoulHealer 2005. All rights reserved.Naturopathic Physician, Dr. Rita Louise, Ph.D. is the author ofthe books “Avoiding the Cosmic 2x4” and “The Power Within”. Itis it is her unique gift as a medical intuitive and clairvoyantthat illuminates and enlivens her work. Visithttp://www.soulhealer.com or call (972) 475-3393 for moreinformation.