Why Honey Could Be the Secret to Clearing Up Eczema

How the Kardashians Made Manuka Honey All the Buzz

Honey seems especially trendy in the skin-care world right now, but its cosmetic use goes back to ancient times, according to a review published in 2017 in Current Drug Metabolism. The type of honey that skin pros and celebs rave about today isn’t the same as what’s likely stocked in your pantry. Rather, they’re gushing about manuka honey, which is produced by bees that feed on New Zealand’s manuka bush, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI).

Nazanin Saedi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist with Dermatology Associates of Plymouth Meeting, P.C., in Pennsylvania, says many patients have asked her about honey in recent years, likely after hearing the Kardashians publicly praise it for its many purported benefits, such as moisturizing the skin, clearing up blemishes, and giving the complexion a glow. Kourtney Kardashian even partnered with the brand Manuka Doctor and became a global ambassador back in 2016, according to Women’s Wear Daily.

Manuka Doctor sells a version of Manuka honey designed to be added to foods and drinks as well as a variety of manuka-based skin-care products. And they’re not the only ones. OY-L, Naturopathica, Kiehl’s, and Eczema Honey, among others, sell creams, cleansers, and other skin-care staples with manuka honey as a key ingredient. But you can also go the DIY route and apply the honey directly to your skin, either mixed simply with a little warm water or with oatmeal as an at-home mask. These products (other than those from Eczema Honey) are not designed specifically for eczema-prone skin but for improving skin in general.

Research Suggests Manuka Honey May Help Treat Eczema

Natalie Yin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at U.S. Dermatology Partners in Colorado, says that honey can help treat eczema because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Those elements can keep skin issues from occurring, or minimize swelling or redness when they do pop up. While regular honey is well known for its antimicrobial properties, manuka honey is the “front-runner of honeys for non-peroxide antimicrobial activity,” according to research published in November 2018 in the journal AIMS Microbiology. According to the NCI, manuka honey’s antibacterial properties come from the concentration of its active ingredient, called methylglyoxal, because it appears to release hydrogen peroxide. The NCI also notes that the honey has been said to help with wound repair, which could help eczema patches heal.

Another plus for patients with eczema: Honey can help keep skin hydrated. “Honey could work, because it is an incredibly thick emollient that would help trap moisture in the skin,” says Daniel P. Friedmann, MD, a board-certified dermatologist with Westlake Dermatology in Austin, Texas. Trapping moisture is key, because people with eczema have skin that struggles to hold onto hydration, hindering its ability to protect against bacteria, allergens, and other irritants, according to Mayo Clinic.

There hasn’t been much scientific support for honey’s effect on eczema, though. One small study, published in June 2017, in the journal Immunity, Inflammation and Disease, investigated the effect of manuka honey on 14 eczema patients. The study participants were asked to apply the honey to one affected area of the skin overnight for a week straight and leave another area of affected skin untreated to serve as the control. The area treated with manuka honey significantly improved compared with the control.

But that study was too small to make sweeping conclusions. A study published in April 2019 in the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology explored a variety of alternative treatments for eczema and found that while there have been some positive effects with manuka honey, there’s not enough evidence yet to recommend it as an eczema treatment. The study authors suggested that future research should involve larger sample sizes that reflect the demographics of people who have eczema.

Honey and Skin Care: Risks to Be Aware Of

Dr. Friedmann notes that it’s possible to have an allergic reaction to honey, particularly if you’re allergic to bees or pollen. As with most new skin-care products, it’s a good idea to do a patch test before fully using the product. Apply the product to an unaffected area of the skin, like the inner forearm, and wait a few minutes to see if redness or irritation occurs. (If you have a history of allergic reactions, you may want to wait one or two days.)

If your baby has eczema, note that honey is not recommended for babies under 1 year old because it can cause a serious disease called botulism, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Also, buy carefully, as not all products contain high-quality manuka honey. Look for the Unique Manuka Factor quality trademark, meaning New Zealand’s Unique Manuka Factor Honey Association has verified the product.

Do Dermatologists Recommend Honey as an Eczema Treatment?

Dr. Saedi says honey works for some people, but she’s not fully on board. “Some people swear by it and think it’s the best thing, but I don’t personally recommend it as a product,” she says.

Dr. Yin warns that while honey does have some great attributes, people should not rely solely on it to treat eczema flares. “More rigorous scientific studies are needed to confirm its benefits in this setting,” she says.

Finally, Friedmann says he wouldn’t recommend it to patients, either. He says there are plenty of products available at the drugstore that can do just as good a job as honey — and without the mess.

Potential benefits and how to use it

The antimicrobial properties of honey may be effective in treating eczema and preventing skin infections. However, people should only use medical grade honey.

Honey has a long history of therapeutic use as an antibacterial agent, and researchers have investigated its potential for treating various skin conditions.

This article explores the different types of eczema and what causes them. It also discusses research about using honey for eczema and potential safety concerns. Additionally, it outlines the standard treatments for eczema and answers some frequently asked questions.

Share on PinterestDesign by TK; Photography by Tanja Ivanova/Getty Image & Ed Peeters/EyeEm/Getty Images

Eczema refers to a group of inflammatory skin conditions that cause irritated and itchy skin.

The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) explains that there are different types of eczema with varying causes.

Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis, which often begins in childhood, is the most common type of eczema. It is a complex disease, and scientists think that the immune system, environmental triggers, and family history all play a part in its development.

People with this type of eczema often develop an itchy rash or patches of dry skin.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin comes into contact with something that irritates it. Common irritants include detergents and bleach, chemicals, and plants.

The symptoms may include itchy skin, a rash, and blisters.

Dyshidrotic eczema

This eczema occurs on the hands or feet and causes tiny, itchy, fluid-filled blisters.

People with dyshidrotic eczema may be hypersensitive to certain medications, personal care products, or metals. They may experience flare-ups that alternate with periods of remission.

Hand eczema

Occurring on the hands, this type of eczema causes dry, chapped skin that may crack or bleed. People who have wet hands throughout the day or work with chemicals may develop hand eczema. Also, chefs may develop hand eczema due to a reaction to the food they prepare.

Neurodermatitis

Neurodermatitis is a type of eczema that is limited to one or two patches of skin and may occur due to a mind-body reaction, meaning that intense emotions trigger the physical symptoms. Another name for the condition is lichen simplex chronicus.

People with neurodermatitis tend to scratch the itchy area repeatedly, especially during sleep. Over time, the repeated scratching causes the skin to become thicker.

Nummular eczema

Nummular eczema causes itchy, raised, round-to-oval spots to appear on a person’s skin. The spots grow together to form large, slightly raised patches.

The spots may appear on the hands, forearms, or lower legs, with stress, extremely dry skin, and hypersensitivity among the possible triggers.

Nummular eczema is similar in appearance to ringworm and psoriasis, so a person should consult a dermatologist to get an accurate diagnosis.

Stasis dermatitis

Stasis dermatitis is a common type of eczema that develops in people with poor circulation, usually in the lower legs. The condition causes swelling, bulging veins, and discolored skin.

The skin may itch, harden, and cause pain.

Some research suggests that the medicinal properties of honey may benefit people with eczema.

For example, a small 2017 study found that atopic dermatitis lesions significantly improved after applying manuka honey for 7 consecutive days.

The researchers suggest that honey has antibacterial properties that may help counteract skin inflammation. They explain that Staphylococcus aureus bacteria colonize the skin of 70–90% of people with atopic dermatitis. S. aureus produces inflammatory toxins, which may lead to infections.

A 2016 review indicates that scientists worldwide have recognized honey for its therapeutic healing properties for the skin, particularly for wounds and burns. In addition, honey may promote tissue repair, modulate the immune system, and have antimicrobial properties.

The review suggests that honey may help treat contact dermatitis and atopic dermatitis. However, scientists need to conduct further research into the effects of honey on other types of eczema and other skin diseases.

According to research, manuka honey is the type of honey that has the most beneficial medicinal properties. Manuka honey comes from Leptospermum, or the manuka tree, and contains an antimicrobial substance called methylglyoxal, which is not present in other kinds of honey.

Medical grade honey uses manuka, and manufacturers treat it to remove contaminants. The same research indicates that both manuka and medical grade honey are effective against various microorganisms.

An older review noted that doctors might use honey to promote wound healing. They may apply medical grade honey from a tube to the skin before adding a dressing. Alternatively, they might use a honey dressing.

In a 2017 study, researchers applied medical grade honey to the skin and covered it with gauze overnight to treat atopic dermatitis. Over 7 days, the participants washed the honey off each morning and reapplied it at night.

The previous review advises that a person should not apply unregulated, unlicensed honey to wounds because it may contain pesticides and harmful bacteria.

A person should seek advice from a healthcare professional about how to use medical grade honey for eczema and whether it may be helpful for them.

People should be aware that although honey allergies are rare, there have been case reports in which anaphylaxis resulted from honey. In addition, research indicates that people allergic to bee venom may react to honey, and those with diabetes should monitor their blood glucose if applying honey to the skin.

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can be life threatening. The symptoms develop suddenly and include:

• hives
• swelling of the face or mouth
• wheezing
• fast, shallow breathing
• a fast heart rate
• clammy skin
• anxiety or confusion
• dizziness
• vomiting
• blue or white lips
• fainting or loss of consciousness

If someone has these symptoms:

1. Check whether they are carrying an epinephrine pen. If they are, follow the instructions on the side of the pen to use it.
2. Dial 911 or the number of the nearest emergency department.
3. Lay the person down from a standing position. If they have vomited, turn them onto their side.
4. Stay with them until the emergency services arrive.

Some people may need more than one epinephrine injection. If the symptoms do not improve in 5–15 minutes, or they come back, use a second pen if the person has one.

Was this helpful?

The AAD advises that a skin care plan for eczema may include bathing, applying moisturizer, and being gentle with the skin.

In addition, the AAD notes that doctors or dermatologists may prescribe the following topical treatments for atopic dermatitis:

• corticosteroids
• crisaborole ointment
• pimecrolimus cream or tacrolimus ointment
• coal tar

Dermatologists may also recommend phototherapy, which uses UV light to treat atopic dermatitis. However, due to the risk of skin cancer, a healthcare professional will carry this out in a controlled environment. People should not attempt to treat themselves with tanning beds.

If someone with eczema develops an infection, the AAD explains that a doctor may prescribe antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungal medications.

Below are the answers to some common questions about eczema and honey.

Can honey cure eczema?

Some studies suggest that medical grade honey may relieve the symptoms of eczema. However, scientists do not fully understand how honey may benefit skin conditions, and further research is necessary.

Is honey good for inflamed skin?

Research indicates that honey has anti-inflammatory properties and may benefit inflamed skin. However, honey not of medical grade may be contaminated with pesticides or bacteria and could worsen symptoms.

Are honey and lemon good for eczema?

No research concludes that ingesting honey and lemon helps eczema. Instead, most studies use honey as a topical treatment for the skin.

Honey has antimicrobial properties that may reduce inflammation in the skin. However, scientists are still researching its effects on eczema, and most studies use medical grade honey.

A person should speak with a dermatologist if they would like to try medical grade honey for eczema. However, they should be aware that regular honey may contain contaminants that might worsen the symptoms. Additionally, in some people with allergies or diabetes, honey may cause adverse effects.

how it helps health and beauty

Contents

• 1 15 most important properties of honey that everyone did not know about
  • 1.1 Increased immunity
  • 1.2 Anti-inflammatory effect of honey digestion thanks to honey
  • 1.4 Honey is a useful preventive measure cardiovascular diseases
  • 1.5 Variety of vitamins and minerals in honey
  • 1.6 Antibacterial action of honey
  • 1.7 Treatment of skin diseases with honey
  • 1.8 How honey helps to improve sleep
  • 1.9 Top 15 health benefits of honey: Improve mood
  • 1.10 Honey is a natural remedy for allergies
    • 1.10.1 Honey is an anti-allergic product
    • 1 .10.2 Honey to reduce allergy symptoms
    • 1.10.3 Types of honey to combat allergies
    • 1. 10.4 Risks and warnings
  • 1.11 Role of honey in reducing anxiety
  • 1.12 Related videos:
  • 1.13 Q&A:
    • • 1.13.0.1 What properties of honey make it beneficial for immunity?
      • 1.13.0.2 Can honey help with stomach problems?
      • 1.13.0.3 What is the soothing effect of honey?
      • 1.13.0.4 How can honey help with heart problems?
      • 1.13.0.5 Are there any contraindications to the use of honey?
      • 1.13.0.6 How can honey help in cosmetology?

Find out 15 reasons why you should add honey to your diet, from boosting immunity to improving digestion and preventing infections.

Honey is a unique product of nature, which has long been famous for its beneficial properties. It is used not only in cooking, but also in medicine, cosmetology and other industries where a natural and effective ingredient is required.

The rich composition of honey, which includes fructose, glucose, vitamins and microelements, makes it a valuable product for our body. Due to its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, honey improves metabolism, circulation, and the immune system.

In this article, we will talk about the 15 most beneficial properties of honey that promote health and improve the quality of life. You’ll learn about its ability to lower cholesterol, prevent cardiovascular disease, improve digestion, fight colds, and more.

Immunity booster

Honey is an excellent product that helps to strengthen the immune system due to its beneficial properties. It contains a large amount of antioxidants and flavonoids, which help protect the body from various infections.

Among other properties, honey helps to stimulate the production of white blood cells and additionally helps to speed up the healing process of wounds and other injuries.

It is important to note that honey not only boosts immunity, but is also a natural antibacterial and antiviral agent, making it an ideal product to protect against illness and infection.

• Honey strengthens the immune system.
• Honey contains many beneficial vitamins and minerals.
• It stimulates the production of white blood cells.
• Honey is a natural antibacterial and antiviral agent.

Anti-inflammatory effect of honey

Honey is a natural medicine with anti-inflammatory effect. Many nations use it to treat various inflammatory processes in the body.

Honey’s unique properties help reduce inflammation and soreness. Enzymes in honey accelerate tissue regeneration and promote their recovery.

Honey inhibits the activity of certain enzymes that are involved in the development of inflammatory processes, due to this, honey is able to relieve pain and reduce swelling.

In addition, honey is able to protect the body from bacteria and viruses that cause inflammatory diseases. Its antibacterial and antifungal properties help fight infections.

• The anti-inflammatory effect of honey is associated with:
• acceleration of tissue regeneration
• suppression of the activity of enzymes involved in the development of inflammatory processes
• pain relief
• reduction of edema

900 05 antibacterial and antifungal properties that help fight infections

Improved digestion with honey

Honey is an excellent product that helps to improve the digestion process due to its many properties. Firstly, honey contains enzymes that support the work of the stomach and intestines, speeding up the breakdown of food and improving digestion.

The richness of honey in antioxidants also improves the functioning of the digestive system. Antioxidants help fight the harmful effects of free radicals and prevent inflammation in the gut.

In general, the consumption of honey improves the functioning of the digestive system and helps to maintain its health and balance. Adding honey to the diet can be beneficial for people who suffer from regular digestive problems such as constipation, dysbacteriosis, etc.

Honey is a useful way to prevent cardiovascular disease cardiovascular diseases. This is facilitated by its composition, which includes enzymes, vitamins, amino acids and minerals.

Enzymes contained in honey help to improve digestion and metabolism, which has a positive effect on heart function. Vitamins such as vitamin C and B group strengthen the walls of blood vessels and prevent the formation of blood clots.

The amino acids found in honey also have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system. They help lower blood cholesterol levels, which reduces the risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease.

• Important to know: in order to achieve the maximum effect from the use of honey, it is recommended to use it on an empty stomach, a few hours after eating and in the absence of allergic reactions to this product.

Conclusion: regular consumption of honey helps to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases due to its rich composition. However, you should not abuse its use, it is best to use honey in reasonable quantities and in accordance with the recommendations of a doctor.

Variety of vitamins and minerals in honey

Honey is known to be a source of a variety of vitamins and minerals needed to maintain human health. Honey contains B vitamins, which have a positive effect on the nervous system and help eliminate drowsiness and fatigue.

Also, honey is an excellent source of antioxidants that protect the cells of the body from harmful environmental influences. In addition, honey contains phytoncides – substances that can kill bacteria and viruses, which makes it an excellent product for strengthening immunity and fighting infections.

• Conclusion: honey is an excellent source of nutrients needed to maintain human health. Including honey in your diet will help boost your immune system, improve cardiovascular and nervous system function, and improve skin and hair health.

Antibacterial action of honey

Honey has a wide range of antibacterial action due to the presence of natural antibiotics in its composition – enzymes and phytoncides. A unique component – water-soluble perga – helps to increase the antibacterial properties of honey due to the presence of flavonoids and antioxidants in it.

Honey has the ability to kill bacteria and prevent the development of infections such as sore throats, bronchitis, colds and other respiratory diseases. Because of this, honey is widely used as a natural remedy.

According to research in Switzerland, honey can be an effective treatment for infectious diseases caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This is because bacteria cannot survive in honey due to its acidic pH and the presence of hydrogen peroxide.

However, it should be borne in mind that the antibacterial effect of honey cannot replace a full course of antibiotic treatment in case of severe infections.

• Honey Antibacterial Facts:
  1. Honey has a wide range of antibacterial properties.
  2. Honey contains natural antibiotics – enzymes and phytoncides.
  3. Water-soluble perga increases the antibacterial properties of honey.
  4. Honey can be effective against antibiotic resistant bacteria.

Bacteria typeEfficacy

Treatment of skin diseases with honey

Honey is one of the most effective ways to treat skin diseases. This is because it contains many beneficial substances such as antioxidants, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory factors.

It is important to note that honey is also an excellent skin moisturizer. It helps to retain moisture in the skin cells, which makes it more elastic and healthy. Honey can be used as a face mask, applied to the skin for 15-20 minutes, after which it should be washed off with warm water.

• For a deeper treatment of the skin, you can use honey with the addition of coconut oil or olive oil. This mask helps repair damaged skin.
• To soften the skin and get rid of dryness, you can use honey as a scrub. To do this, you need to mix it with oatmeal or salt and massage the skin in circular motions.

Honey does not cause allergic reactions in most people, but a sensitivity test should be done before using it on the skin. For this bite on the skin, you need to apply a small amount of honey and leave it for 15-20 minutes. If the skin turns red, itches or rashes, then honey should be discontinued for the treatment of skin diseases.

How honey helps to normalize sleep

Sleep plays an important role in maintaining human health. But what if you suffer from insomnia? Honey can help you sleep better due to its calming properties.

Honey contains natural sugars that help stimulate the production of the hormone melatonin. This hormone is a natural regulator of sleep and wakefulness. Therefore, drinking honey before bed can make you feel drowsy and prolong your deep sleep phase.

Honey also contains amino acids that help reduce stress and anxiety. When a person is under stress, hormones such as cortisol can interfere with the normal sleep cycle. Consuming honey can help relieve tension and improve sleep quality.

If you want to get the most benefit from honey for improving sleep, it is recommended to use it in combination with warm milk. Milk contains tryptophan, an amino acid that helps the body produce melatonin. In addition, warm milk can help to relax the body and reduce anxiety.

But as with all foods, too much honey can be detrimental to your health. It is recommended to consume no more than 1-2 tablespoons of honey per day to normalize sleep and achieve other beneficial effects.

15 most useful properties of honey: Mood improvement

Honey is not only a delicious product, but also a useful ingredient that can improve your mood. Its properties can help to cope with stress and fatigue, restore the balance of hormones and tune in to a positive mood.

Honey contains many vitamins and minerals that are essential for the normal functioning of the body. It also contains amino acids that help improve mood and manage nervous tension.

Honey can increase the level of serotonin in the body, which is the hormone of happiness. It can improve mood and reduce levels of anxiety and depression.

In addition, honey is a natural antidepressant that helps improve mood, reduce stress and fatigue.

Honey can also increase melatonin levels, which improves sleep quality and may help manage sleep and insomnia.

Including honey in your daily diet can help improve your mood and general well-being, even if there are no specific health problems.

Honey is a natural remedy for allergies

Honey is an anti-allergic product

Honey contains antioxidants and flavonoids that can help fight allergies. It also contains antibacterial properties that can help fight infections that can cause allergic reactions.

Honey to reduce allergy symptoms

Honey can help reduce allergy symptoms due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, honey contains enzymes that can reduce airway swelling and improve breathing.

Allergy honeys

• Pollen honey – contains a small amount of pollen that can help the body develop immunity to allergens.
• Poplar Honey – Contains antioxidants that may help reduce allergy symptoms associated with exposure to poplar pollen.
• Linden honey – contains camphor, which helps reduce swelling and improve breathing.

Risks and warnings

Some people may be allergic to honey. When using honey to fight allergies, you need to make sure that there is no allergic reaction. It is not recommended to use honey to treat children under 1 year of age, as it may contain the bacterium that causes botulism.

The role of honey in reducing anxiety

Stress, anxiety and depression have become an integral part of our modern life. But there are many methods that can help us deal with these negative emotions. And one of them is the use of honey.

Honey contains various antioxidants and flavonoids that help reduce stress levels and improve mood. In addition, honey is an excellent source of glucose, which is the main source of nutrition for our brain.

Some studies have shown that honey can improve the functioning of certain areas of the brain, which can help reduce anxiety and depression. In addition, honey has properties that help improve sleep, which is also an effective way to combat stress and anxiety.

• Conclusions:
• Honey is an excellent source of nutrition for the brain and helps reduce stress and anxiety.
• Honey can be used as an effective way to fight depression and improve mood.
• Honey also improves the quality of sleep, which also helps reduce stress and anxiety.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What properties of honey make it good for immunity?

Honey contains antibacterial and antiviral properties that help fight infections and strengthen the body’s defenses.

Can honey help with stomach problems?

Yes, honey is considered a natural remedy for gastritis, stomach ulcers and other diseases associated with the gastrointestinal tract.

What is the calming effect of honey?

Honey contains amino acids and enzymes that help improve sleep and reduce anxiety.

How can honey help with heart problems?

Honey contains antioxidants that lower blood cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Are there any contraindications to the use of honey?

People suffering from diabetes should limit their consumption of honey. Honey can also cause an allergic reaction in some people.

How can honey help in cosmetology?

Honey contains antioxidants that help slow down the aging process, as well as vitamins and minerals that nourish the skin and hair.

Eczema: what is it, symptoms, causes, types, treatment and diet

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin disease of an allergic nature. The causes of the onset and development of pathology have not yet been studied, but it is believed that allergic diseases and genetic prerequisites are provoking factors. Treatment of eczema is carried out successfully today. You just need to turn to experienced professionals.

What is eczema?

This is a disease characterized by inflammatory processes and characterized by:

• A large number of provoking developmental factors
• Many variants of rash
• Tendency to relapse
• High treatment resistance

Typically, an eczema rash concentrates on areas such as:

• Neck
• Knee bends
• Elbows
• Ankles

Symptoms of pathology can periodically increase. Such attacks last from a couple of hours to several days.

Classification

In accordance with the characteristics of the course of the pathological condition, the following are distinguished:

• Acute eczema. Her symptoms usually persist for 1-2 months
• Subacute. Symptoms of this pathology are less pronounced. In this case, the pathology can accompany the patient up to 6 months
• Chronic. In this case, the disease can proceed for several years. Periods of relapses follow remissions

There are several types of pathology:

• True. Such eczema is characterized by a chronic course. Exacerbations occur frequently and are accompanied by the appearance of symmetrical foci of inflammation. At first, areas of the skin turn red and swell. After that, small bubbles form on them. Over time, they open with the release of exudate (a small amount of liquid)
• Microbial. This form of pathology is characterized by the formation of deep ulcers and fistulas. Pathology is accompanied by severe itching. In the microbial form, foci of inflammation spread mainly to the legs
• Seborrheic. This form is characterized by rashes on the face (on the forehead, near the eyebrows, behind the ears) and the scalp. Complete restoration of the skin is possible only with correct therapy
• Children’s. This form is characterized by a large amount of exudate
• Professional. This form of pathology is characterized by vivid manifestations. The rash can appear on various areas of the skin (usually those that come into contact with irritants). Irritants in occupational eczema can be either chemical or physical or mechanical. Usually, pathology is provoked by constant exposure to cosmetics, active chemicals, various plants, resins, metals (mainly nickel and chromium)

Reasons

Eczema, the treatment of which should only be carried out by professionals, is quite common.

Its causes include a number of internal and external factors.

Internal factors for the development of eczema:

• Disorders of the nervous system
• Pathologies of internal organs
• Genetic factors (heredity)

External factors provoking pathology:

• Increase or decrease in temperature
• Exposure to aggressive chemicals
• Influence of extracts of various plants, etc.

Often, a combination of internal and external factors provokes pathology.

Eczema can be the body’s response to:

• Contact with pollen
• Excessive sweating
• Immune system disorders
• Stress
• Taking medications
• Reception of certain products

Before starting the treatment of eczema, it is very important to identify the causes that provoked the onset of pathology. Only in this case, the therapy will be as effective as possible and will not drag on for a long time.

Symptoms

All types of eczema are characterized by the following symptoms:

• Appearance of individual inflamed areas on the skin
• Appearance of rash
• Itching
• Blisters
• Wounds and fissures that cause permanent discomfort
• Increase in body temperature during exacerbations
• General malaise and weakness
• Cracking of the skin, its pronounced dryness and loss of elasticity

Symptoms of the pathological condition largely depend on the stage of development of eczema.

At the erythematous stage, the disease manifests itself in the form of inflamed areas. Gradually, the spots can merge into a separate affected area, which has an impressive area.

At the papular stage, the affected skin becomes unpleasant to the touch. It forms small nodules with clear boundaries and a bright red color.

At the vesicular stage, nodules turn into vesicles.

At the stage of wetting, the bubbles gradually open, liquid is released from them.

In the cortical stage, the inflamed areas dry out. Yellowish crusts form on the skin.

At the stage of dry eczema, the skin begins to peel off. Formed crusts gradually disappear. Do not try to rip them off yourself! This can provoke the resumption of pathology.

Diagnosis

Treatment of eczema in adults is possible only after a thorough assessment of its symptoms and causes. That is why it is very important for a doctor to conduct a high-quality diagnosis.

It begins with the collection of anamnesis.

The doctor explains:

• The first cases of manifestation of signs of a pathological process
• Presence of intolerance to certain foods and drugs
• Cases of allergic reactions

At the first appointment, the dermatologist performs a dermatoscopy. This study is aimed at studying the condition of the skin, mucous membranes and scalp.

Then laboratory tests are carried out.

For the diagnosis of eczema are assigned:

• Urinalysis
• Blood tests
• Serum immunoglobulin testing

During the examination, the specialist determines the general state of health of the patient, evaluates individual vital signs. If necessary, a consultation with a nutritionist and an immunologist-allergist is carried out.

In advanced situations, a comprehensive immunological and allergological examination with sampling is also prescribed. As part of such a diagnosis, doctors are able to identify irritating factors that can provoke symptoms of eczema and allow you to quickly begin to treat the pathology.

Treatment

The main task of the doctor after making a diagnosis such as eczema is to reduce or completely eliminate the factors that provoke the onset of symptoms.

Treatment of pathology is conditionally divided into several stages:

• Taking general medications
• Diet modification
• Use of topical agents in the form of ointments, emulsions, creams, etc.
• Physiotherapy

The following groups of drugs are used for therapy:

• Antihistamines. Such remedies are prescribed for acute eczema
• Glucocorticosteroids. These hormonal preparations relieve inflammation and prevent the development of allergic reactions
• Diuretics. Such funds are recommended for severe edema
• Tranquilizers. These drugs allow you to eliminate itching, ensure a sound and healthy sleep of the patient, his good rest even with severe discomfort in the acute stage of eczema
• Enterosorbents. These funds allow you to quickly remove all the products of intoxication from the intestines
• Vitamins of group B, aimed at normalizing the functioning of the nervous system
• Antibiotics. These funds are prescribed if, as a result of the diagnosis, it turned out that eczema is provoked by the action of aggressive microorganisms

Locally, applications with pastes and ointments are usually prescribed, which have:

• Antipruritic effect
• Anti-inflammatory action
• Antiseptic properties

Compositions of preparations for external use are often selected individually. In some cases, “talkers” are prescribed, which are prepared in pharmacies according to a doctor’s prescription.

Important! It is strictly forbidden to use folk remedies, various oils, plant extracts, etc. for the treatment of eczema. They are able not to stop the development of the pathological process, but to provoke it.

With regard to physiotherapy, patients are usually prescribed:

• UV
• Magnetotherapy
• Electrophoresis

Treatment of weeping eczema is carried out with the obligatory use of drugs that allow you to dry the skin and ensure the elimination of external signs of pathology. Treatment of other forms of the disease also has individual specificity. The attending physician will tell you about all the subtleties.

There are also general recommendations that should be followed by all patients suffering from the disease.

• Avoid skin contact with aggravating substances (if such substances are identified through tests and samples)
• Dieting. Cocoa, citrus fruits and chocolate should be completely excluded from the diet
• Skin care only with products recommended by a physician
• Elimination of nervous overload and stressful situations

Diet

The basis for the recovery of patients with eczema is often a properly selected diet. When selecting the products you need, the doctor takes into account both the general state of health and the stage and form of the pathology, as well as the presence of concomitant diseases.

There are also general recommendations regarding nutrition.

All patients during an exacerbation should:

• Avoid spicy, salty and smoked foods
• Refuse sweets
• Eliminate citrus fruits, eggs, alcoholic beverages, dairy products and processed foods from the diet

The diet should include:

• Greenery
• Lean cereals
• Vegetables

During periods of remission, it is desirable to use zucchini and pumpkin, watermelons, gooseberries, lingonberries, currants and cranberries, nuts. Patients who adhere strictly to the diet usually improve rapidly. After a month, the diet can be expanded.

With eczema, the following foods and drinks are strictly prohibited:

• Coffee and cocoa
• Sweets
• Fatty meat
• Tomatoes
• Garlic
• Buns and other pastries
• Melon
• Grenades
• Beetroot
• Strawberry
• Honey

It is advisable to use only those products that are hypoallergenic. A complete list will be given to you by your doctor.

Benefits of treatment at MEDSI

• Comprehensive diagnosis of eczema. The examination includes laboratory tests, dermatoscopy and video dermatoscopy. Diagnostics is carried out on modern equipment. We have our own laboratory, which allows us to provide patients with test results in the CITO mode (urgently)
• Individual selection of methods for the treatment of eczema in adults and children. Therapy is prescribed taking into account the stage of the pathological process and the characteristics of its course
• Use of modern preparations. Patients are prescribed anti-inflammatory, disinfectant and other drugs that have been developed recently, but already have proven effectiveness
• Carrying out modern physiotherapy procedures. Our clinics offer UVA therapy, ozone therapy, magnetotherapy. The combination of modern techniques allows you to achieve pronounced results of treatment in the shortest possible time
• Treatment of eczema using laser devices.