Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a health condition involving skin dryness, inflammation, and itchiness. It usually occurs on the insides of the elbows and the back of the knees and neck but can develop in any body part. In eczema patients, the corneal layer of the outer skin, which ensures germ protection, does not perform its function optimally, causing rashes. The symptoms and causes of eczema and home remedies for better healing are discussed below.

Warning signs and symptoms of eczema

Dry patches on the skin
Dry, scaly patches on the skin’s surface are some early signs of eczema. Comorbid conditions like type-2 diabetes and psoriasis can aggravate such eczema symptoms.

Itchiness
The dry patches that develop on the skin can trigger itchiness and inflammation. Individuals with eczema typically experience a deficiency of a protein called filaggrin, which increases skin moisture. This deficiency aggravates dry patches, which, in turn, cause itchiness.

Hay fever
About 80% of children with eczema may develop hay fever or asthma later during their childhood. Conversely, in some cases, hay fever can also trigger eczema rashes in the body.

Asthma
Studies suggest that since asthma and eczema result from inflammation, individuals with one of the conditions are often at risk of developing the other. The onset of asthma due to eczema and vice versa is known as “atopic march.”

Raised bumps
Sometimes, eczema may trigger the development of pus-filled, raised, red bumps, called papules, on the skin. This condition is called papular eczema and can be accompanied by skin itchiness and infections. Even after recovery, the area previously affected by the bumps may continue appearing lighter or darker than the person’s normal skin shade.

Nausea
Atopic dermatitis caused by a food allergy or infection can trigger nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting, particularly among children.

Runny nose
Allergic eczema can cause symptoms like a runny nose, cold, and cough. This condition is caused when the body comes in contact with a substance triggering an allergic reaction. The individual may experience such symptoms hours after exposure to the allergen. Hair dye, latex, adhesives, and certain types of plants are some common eczema allergens.

Cracked skin
Cracked, broken skin is a common symptom of eczema. These cracks are formed due to a lack of moisture in the skin.

Triggers and risk factors

Genetic predisposition
Studies suggest that the risk of developing childhood eczema is up to three times higher among children genetically predisposed to the condition. Further, mutations to the genes CARD11, KIF3A, and FLG have been linked to the development of eczema.

Soaps and detergents
Certain ingredients used in soaps, detergents, shampoos, etc., may trigger allergic reactions, leading to eczema. Allergic eczema is characterized by other symptoms like nausea, cold, and cough.

Environmental allergens
Environmental factors, including cold weather, house dust, and pollen, may trigger eczema. Environmental pollution and climate change are also often contributing factors.

Food allergies
Atopic dermatitis may result in an allergic reaction to certain foods, such as cow’s milk, gluten, peanuts, fish or shellfish, and soy. Following an elimination meal plan can help identify any possible food allergens.

Hormonal changes
Eczema flare-ups may worsen during pregnancy or before or during menstrual cycles in women. In fact, 47% of women with eczema report a surge in eczema symptoms a week before their periods.

Certain types of fabric
Synthetic and woolen fabrics often cause itching and irritation, which can trigger or worsen eczema symptoms.

Natural remedies for relief

Mild bleach bath
Bathing in a mild bleach solution may help control symptoms of atopic dermatitis. However, the solution should be diluted appropriately, with adequate proportions of bleach and water. It is advised to have a bleach bath thrice a week, adding about half a cup of bleach to 40 gallons of warm water for the best results. Typically, the sodium hypochlorite levels in bleach may range from 6-8.25%. However, if the level is higher than 8.25%, using less than half a cup of bleach is advised.

Calendula cream
Calendula, or pot marigold, has several healing properties and has been used as a natural skin remedy for ages. Since this plant is antifungal and anti-inflammatory, patients with eczema can use its cream or as an antiseptic lotion to relieve the body of symptoms like rashes and redness.

Aloe vera gel
One of the common symptoms of eczema is a lack of moisture in the skin. Aloe vera gel is a natural moisturizer that hydrates the skin and provides suppleness.

Colloidal oatmeal
Colloidal oatmeal refers to rolled oats ground into a thick paste, which has several healing properties when applied to the skin. This paste can be prepared at home or bought from any local store. Colloidal oatmeal can help soothe the eczema skin and control its symptoms.

Apple cider vinegar
Having apple cider vinegar regularly may restore the skin’s acidity levels and help heal conditions like eczema. The solution is prepared by blending a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with a cup of warm water. One may also add in a dash of honey if desired.

Coconut oil
Experts believe that coconut has antibacterial properties, which can help reduce staph bacteria accumulated on the skin and prevent infections. Cold-pressed and virgin coconut oil are better topical options than regular coconut oil, as these do not contain any chemicals. In addition, coconut oil can help soothe the skin, moisturize it, and prevent itchiness.

Evening primrose oil
Evening primrose oil is rich in gamma-linolenic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid effective in healing skin problems like psoriasis and eczema. The oil may be directly applied to the skin for hydration and management of eczema symptoms.

Besides following a treatment course prescribed by one’s dermatologist and trying home remedies, regularly moisturizing the skin, avoiding inflammation-causing foods like fried foods, refined carbs, and sugar, and staying hydrated can help heal from eczema.