Atopic eczema: 7 tips to better live with it

The 14th of September is World Atopic Eczema Day! I know it's not easy to live with it: as well as being unpleasant in times of crisis, eczema can affect your confidence and quality of life. But there are a few simple solutions that can be put in place to help you live with it! I'm sharing them with you in this article: 

1. Moisturise your skin every day  

This is probably the most important tip to follow if you live with eczema. Even if it comes in different phases, you still need to moisturise your skin every day and not wait for the flare-ups to do it. You can do this by using an emollient cream. Emollients act as a natural barrier for the skin, a function that is lacking if you have eczema. With proper moisturising, your hypersensitive skin will be protected against external aggressions. You can find a few over-the-counter creams at your pharmacy.

 2. Don't dry your clothes outside 

Pollen and pollution can be triggers for eczema flare-ups. Make sure you dry your clothes indoors to avoid contact with these substances. You should also avoid dusty atmospheres, so be sure to clean your home: carpets, rugs and unventilated areas should also be avoided.  

3. Avoid tobacco and sugar  

Tobacco (in addition to all the risks it is known for) is a trigger for flare-ups. It attacks mucous membranes that are already weakened: eyes, mouth, nose, etc. And sugar, especially refined sugar, can cause eczema flare-ups since it increases the acidity of the sweat. The accumulation of sweat is already a problem, so avoid excessive consumption of sugar (and that includes biscuits, sodas, sweets, etc.)  

4. Learn to manage stress 

Stress is a trigger for dermatitis (or eczema) attacks. You may have noticed this during a stressful time such as an interview or exam. Controlling stress is not always easy, but it is possible with a few exercises. You can try meditation or gentle gymnastics at home. It's not a real treatment, but it will help you to relax and release the pressure. Don't hesitate to consult a psychologist or therapist to help you deal with the disease on a daily basis. 

5. Take a warm shower right after exercising  

Showering right after exercising is very important to get rid of the sweat that triggers eczema attacks. Warm or cool water also helps to avoid irritating your sensitive skin. When showering, I recommend using superfatted products and mild shampoos. Be aware that some cosmetic products can trigger eczema: use products that are suited for hypersensitive skin. 

6. Ensure that atopic dermatitis is well-controlled 

Controlled dermatitis means that your symptoms are under control, and attacks are far enough apart and small enough not to affect your quality of life. 

A test to assess the level of control of your dermatitis is available for free in my app Vik DA. You can quickly and easily self-assess your atopic dermatitis on six criteria:  

·       Frequency and intensity of itching 

·       The severity of the symptoms 

·       The discomfort caused by your dermatitis  

·       Impact on sleep 

·       Impact on daily activities  

·       Impact on mood and emotions 

Validated by experts and patients, this test allows you to better understand your treatment needs. Depending on the final test result, I may advise you to consult your dermatologist.

7. See your doctor  

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic disease, and its symptoms can change over time. Treatments may have to be adapted after a while. If, in spite of your treatment, you experience regular discomfort or an impact on your quality of life, I suggest you talk to your doctor.

I hope these tips will help you live better; you can share them if you know someone living with this skin condition. Find more tips on how to manage your atopic eczema and care for your skin in my Vik Atopic Dermatitis app. You can download it here : https://app.adjust.com/q8carff

Vik

Source:  

https://www.associationeczema.fr/7-trucs-et-astuces-pour-mieux-vivre-avec-leczema-a-la-maison/  

https://www.passeportsante.net/fr/Actualites/Dossiers/DossierComplexe.aspx?doc=8-aliments-eviter-lorsqu-on-eczema