Eczema is a skin disease characterized by red, dry, and itchy skin patches. It is a form of dermatitis that interferes with the skin’s ability to retain moisture and protect itself from harmful environmental elements. Individuals who suffer from the disorder experience symptoms when exposed to specific triggers. Thankfully, one can manage the discomforts effectively with treatment and lifestyle changes. This post takes a closer look at eczema and its management options. What exactly is eczema? As mentioned, eczema is a type of dermatitis. Dermatitis is the name given to conditions that involve inflammation of the skin. Broadly the types of dermatitis include atopic dermatitis (eczema), contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, neurodermatitis, nummular eczema, and seborrheic dermatitis. All of these result in skin inflammation caused by type-specific triggers. And there is always an impairment of the skin’s barrier function. Sadly, it is possible to suffer from more than one type of dermatitis at a time. In eczema, allergens trigger itchy, dry, and inflamed patches on the skin. It is more common in children but can begin at any age. And the condition is chronic, meaning it is long-lasting but tends to flare up and recede. It is an irritating ailment but not contagious.

Eczema is a skin disease that affects 31.6 million people in the country as of 2022. It is a chronic condition that is more likely in children but can extend to adulthood. Typically the symptoms recede for some time and then appear in periods of flare-ups when there is contact with an allergen or trigger. However, living with eczema can be stressful, and it helps to know some home remedies that might offer immediate relief. Everything to know about eczema This condition is characterized by symptoms of dry and itchy skin. Rashes and bumps on the skin are also common, and patches of the skin are likely to become thick, leathery, flaky, or crusty. Swelling is typical during flare-ups. In most cases, patches are red, but they can also be gray, purple, or brown in darker skin tones. The most common places where eczema patches appear are the hands, elbows, feet, ankles, knees, neck, face, and around the ears. The origin of eczema is usually a combination of causal factors. A family history of eczema and dermatitis increase the likelihood of developing this skin disease. If one lives in an environment with several allergens, like pollutants, smoke, or low humidity, and one’s daily routine includes chemicals in soaps, detergents, and skin care products, the chances of suffering from eczema also increase.

As dreadful as it sounds, eczema is more prevalent than you think. 31.6 million have at least one form of this type of dermatitis in the country alone. The term eczema describes a skin disease that involves skin inflammation, typically due to exposure to some environmental or dietary trigger. The condition is commonly called atopic dermatitis since the cause is usually some allergen. The allergens vary from individual to individual. What is eczema? Eczema does not refer to one skin disease but is a group of conditions characterized by inflamed or irritated skin. The most common type is atopic dermatitis, related to allergic conditions like asthma and hay fever. Eczema affects 10% – 20% of infants and about 3% of adults and children in the country. Usually, in children, the symptoms are outgrown after ten years. Though there is no cure, you can manage the signs to a large extent. The condition is caused partly by genetic components but is not contagious. Managing eczema Managing any chronic condition is difficult. With skin diseases, there is not only continual discomfort but also social factors that need to be addressed. It is typically stressful during an eczema flare-up, and this emotional anguish forms a vicious cycle triggering the symptoms even further.

Atopic dermatitis, also called eczema, or atopic eczema, is a skin disorder characterized by patches of dryness, redness, and inflammation triggered by allergens. The extremely itchy rashes appear on the skin when a person comes in contact with the allergen and then usually go away or remain. In the fight against atopic dermatitis, several remedies may be of use. Read on to learn about effective ways to fight eczema from the comfort of your home. Information In any challenge, the first task patients must take up is research. When a person is diagnosed with atopic dermatitis, curiosity will make them learn more about the condition. Nearly 1 in 10 people in the country live with this condition. This skin disease is not contagious, though it is partially hereditary. The eczema patches are likely to appear in the creases of the elbow, knees, face, neck, palms, and legs. These areas are likely to be dry, scaly, and excessively itchy. Often the skin may become thick, leathery, and discolored. Common triggers for flare-ups of atopic dermatitis are cold, dry weather, allergens in the food, long, hot showers, heat, sweating, strenuous exercise, unhealthy lifestyle habits, sand, certain types of grass, pollen, dust, soaps, detergents, wool, and synthetic fabrics, as well as stress.

Maintaining healthy skin is not just about external skin care through creams and oils. Skin health is also affected by one’s food choices. As a variety of foods and supplements are advertised as “healthy” options, many may go for trending food products that do not offer long-term benefits for the body. Some might even cause skin issues and premature aging. So, here are five foods to avoid at all times to maintain healthy skin: Fried food Fried foods are high in fat, increasing the risk of heart disease. They contain trans fats, which may increase one’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Fried foods have also been shown to cause skin inflammation, making the skin more susceptible to breakouts or other problems like blemishes, wrinkles, and premature aging. While the precise impact of fried foods is still being studied, there is no denying that they are high in fat and calories. So, one should avoid foods like chips, French fries, donuts, and other deep-fried items to keep skin issues at bay. Sugary beverages Sugary beverages are one of the worst items for skin health. They can cause acne, wrinkles, and dry skin. The drinks contain excessive refined sugar, so they do not quench one’s thirst or hydrate the body but rather cause dehydration.

Good lung health is crucial for overall well-being. Environmental toxins, poor lifestyle habits, and inflammatory foods can damage the lungs and lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, and other conditions that can significantly impact one’s quality of life. Adding nutritious foods to the meals can help mitigate some of this damage and reduce the symptoms and severity of lung disease. Try these 20 foods to boost lung function and improve breathing. Apples Research suggests that those who eat at least five apples a week are less likely to develop COPD. Apples contain an antioxidant called quercetin, which slows lung function decline. The fruit also helps lower the risk of asthma and lung cancer owing to its flavonoids and vitamin C content. Beetroots Beetroots and beet greens are rich sources of nitrates, which can help optimize lung function, relax blood vessels, and reduce blood pressure. Beets are also packed with beneficial nutrients, such as magnesium, potassium, vitamin C, and carotenoid antioxidants. Beetroot (in its natural form or as a supplement) is known to improve physical performance and lung function in those with COPD and pulmonary hypertension. Peppers Peppers are rich in vitamin C, a vitamin that has been shown to improve lung function.

Sugar is a vital source of energy and essential for survival. However, not all sugars have the same effects. Fructose, naturally present in fruits and vegetables, and lactose in milk and dairy products are natural sugars. However, added or refined sugar usually found in processed foods should be avoided. This sugar, when added to meals excessively, can increase the risk of developing various health conditions such as diabetes, fatty liver disease, and high blood pressure. Signs of excessive sugar intake Irritability Excessive sugar intake can lead to irritability, moodiness, and increased stress levels. A 2010 study suggested that high levels of sugar intake can promote inflammation, worsen one’s moods, and even increase the risk of developing depression. Exceeding the recommended sugar intake would mean that one is opting for meals high in sugar without adequate proteins or fat, leading to a spike in blood sugar levels. After a while, the previously elevated energy levels crash, making one feel irritable and sluggish. So, one should track their energy levels before and after a meal, especially when dealing with diabetes. Trouble sleeping A study found that poor quality of sleep is associated with increased sugar intake. Disruptions in sleep cycles can lead to restlessness.

Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory disorder that causes morning joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. This discomfort is associated with psoriasis or a family history of the condition. Both psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis are autoimmune conditions that affect the immune system. Adding nutritious food to one’s meal plans and following a prescribed treatment regimen may help in managing the condition. Here are some foods to avoid and eat along with certain treatments for managing psoriatic arthritis. Foods to avoid The following foods can trigger psoriatic arthritis due to the components found in them and must be avoided. Red meat Red meat, such as beef, pork, lamb, and veal, is high in saturated fatty acids. These fats are linked to various inflammatory conditions, including type-2 diabetes and cardiovascular problems. Red meat also contains heme, which binds oxygen in the blood and gives it its red color. Heme has been linked to gut irritation and systemic inflammation. Dairy products Milk, yogurt, and cheese are low-fat dairy products that can be healthy when consumed in moderation. However, patients who are lactose intolerant may experience discomfort and worsened symptoms. Saturated fats are abundant in high-fat dairy products like whole milk, full-fat cheese, and ice cream.