Eczema is a general term for many types of skin inflammation, also known as dermatitis.
It is sometimes referred to as "the itch that rashes," since the itch, when scratched, results in the appearance of the rash.
Atopic dermatitis is the most common of the many types of eczema, and sometimes people use the two terms interchangeably.
Eczema Symptoms
Eczema is characterized by patchy, dry, itchy and scaly areas of skin, caused by a hypersensitivity reaction (similar to an allergy) in the skin, which leads to long-term inflammation. Eczema is not an allergy itself, but allergies can trigger eczema.
Although eczema is a chronic condition that currently cannot be cured, it is not contagious and you can often control the itching, redness and other symptoms with treatment and by avoiding irritants.
Eczema Treatment Options
Treatments for eczema can vary based on the type of eczema you have and the severity of the symptoms. Both prescription and over the counter remedies exist, as well as home remedies that usually involve natural herbs (not medications).
Creams, Locations and Other Topical Treatments
Because eczema is usually dry and itchy, the most common treatment is the application of lotions or creams to keep the skin as moist as possible. Over the counter creams often contain hydrocortisone (Cortaid®, Cortizone®) to treat mild eczema. It is also possible to get a prescription cream with more serious steroids to treat the eczema.
Topical corticosteroids, also called cortisone or steroid creams or ointments, are commonly used to treat eczema and are not the same as the steroids used by some athletes. Non-steroid medications are also available in creams or ointments that can be used instead of — or in conjunction with — topical steroids.
Natural Home Remedies for Eczema
Taking steroids eczema treatment (in pill or in cream form) for an extended period of time is never good for your health, so you may want to also consider some natural home remedies for eczema.
Most home remedies for eczema are herbal remedies made from natural ingredients that have little or no side effects, compared to prescription or OTC medications.
