The onset of monsoon may not be as welcoming for the skin, as it is for the soul for bringing relief from seething heat. With an increase in the humidity levels, skin infections and irritation become inevitable. It is also a time when most allergies spring up, apart from a host of respiratory allergies and dermatological infections. One of the most common skin problems that affect people during this time of the year is eczema. It is not an infection but an allergic reaction of the body to an external stimulus. This condition usually runs in the family and affects the one-tenth of the world population.

Some common symptoms

Eczema is characterized by itchy patches on the skin that may become inflamed. High humidity levels and the presence of pollen and moulds can further aggravate the condition. Even though it is not contagious, eczema can become rather difficult to manage. Some of its common symptoms include dry itchy skin, redness of skin that is hot to touch, infected blisters with or without oozing, dark discolouration and rough scaly skin. Those with this skin ailment may also have other conditions such as asthma, food allergies and allergy to dust or other environmental triggers.

Eczema can be classified into several types depending on symptoms and where it appears on the body –

· Atopic Dermatitis

· Pompholyx

· Nummular eczema

· Seborrheic dermatitis

· Neurodermatitis

· Stasis dermatitis

· Contact dermatitis

· Asteatotic eczema

While the exact cause of this condition is still unknown, research indicates the following environmental factors to be potential triggers:

· Certain chemicals in soap, shampoo and detergent

· Natural triggers such as pollen grains and moulds in a dry, cold climate or humid weather

· Mites, pet fur and household dust containing irritants

· Allergens in foods like eggs, soy, nuts, gluten and dairy

· Synthetic fabrics such as nylon, polyester, some chemically treated cotton and woollen fibres

· Hormonal imbalances, deficiencies and certain existing skin infections can also lead to eczema

· Emotional distress, depression and work-related stress are also known to aggravate this condition.

Treatment and management

Eczema is incurable, though its symptoms can be treated conditionally. Most treatment methodologies for eczema are aimed at providing symptomatic relief. In case of severe discomfort, patients are given antihistamines, topical ointments and corticosteroid creams to control eczema. Antibiotics and antifungal medications may be required in case secondary infections develop. Phototherapy with supplementary immunomodulators is advised for people with severe chronic eczema.

Some home-based remedial measures can prevent eczema from worsening. People with sensitive skin should prefer comfortable cotton clothing and refrain from wearing synthetic fabrics or tight-fitted clothes. Lukewarm baths with mild unscented bathing bars/body wash can prove beneficial. Both cold and hot water baths can cause the skin to react. People suffering from eczema are also advised to avoid taking very long showers or rubbing too harshly with a rough towel as it may cause excessive drying of the skin leading to itching. Moisturize your skin immediately after bathing without fail. Some types of eczema may require repeated applications of some medicated lotion throughout the day to prevent dryness and itching.

Strenuous exercise and excessive physical or mental strain should be avoided. Sweat leaves behind salt deposits on the skin that may aggravate eczema. Use of humidifiers in cold, dry weather can help in maintaining the natural moisture balance of the skin. Moisturize generously before going for a swim as the chlorine in pools can irritate the skin. Take a shower to wash off any possible residue that the swimming pool water may have left on your skin. Be sure to test any new cosmetic product on a small part of your arm for possible allergic reaction before applying it to your entire body. Keep your indoor surroundings clean, dust-free and dry to prevent the growth of microbes and moulds.