Eczema is a general term used for several inflamed skin conditions, and one of the most common types of eczema is atopic dermatitis. Eczema affects people of all races and ages, but the condition is quite common in infants, and as many as 20 percent of kids get affected. Eczema is usually characterized by red, dry and itchy patches on the skin, and it can affect any part of the body. In some people, eczema is dry, scaly and red, and for some, it my bubble up and ooze.

Outbreaks of eczema can be avoided with some easy precautions such as frequent moisturization, reduction of stress, avoiding overheating and sweating, avoiding sudden changes in humidity and temperature, avoiding environmental factors such as molds, pollens, animals dander or mites that can trigger allergies, avoiding scratchy materials, being conscious of foods that can cause outbreaks and avoiding harsh detergents, solvents and soaps. The most important component of treating eczema is to avoid the urge to scratch. It is important to avoid wearing the rough, tight-fitting or scratchy clothes, and do not scratch the rashes. These creams and lotions are most effective when used immediately after bathing so that the moisturizer gets locked in.

You can also apply cold compresses directly on the affected areas, but if the condition does not improve, or becomes worse, there are other nonprescription corticosteroids ointments and creams that help reduce the inflammation. Apply non-prescription steroid cream and anti-itching lotion. In case the skin affected by eczema gets infected frequently, doctor may prescribe oral or topical antibiotics to kill the bacteria. Sedative antihistamines are used in case of severe itching, but drowsiness is a common side-effect.

Skin affected by eczema may become infected, and can be treated by oral or topical antibiotics to kill bacteria that cause infection. Pimecrolimus and tacrolimus are two commonly used topical medications approved by FDA, and they work by modulating the immune response. Eggs, soybean products, maize, nuts and wheat must be avoided, salt must be reduced and sour foods must be taken in limited quantities. Phototherapy and tar treatments are also effective, but tar can be quite messy, and phototherapy requires use of special equipments.

Pimecrolimus and tacrolimus are two topical medications that have been approved by FDA to treat atopic dermatitis. For children, it might be difficult to resist the urge to scratch, and hence condition can become worse. To treat moderate to severe cases, phototherapy is prescribed where patient is exposed to UV light for a controlled amount of time, and this treatment is used as a part of total treatment plan including topical treatment, lifestyle modification to prevent flare-ups, and stronger therapies such as medications that can be injected or swallowed.

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