Before you Scratch that Eczema Itch, Consider the Consequences

By Martin A. David martin.david@hqpublications.com Pharmavita Columnist September 1, 2004

The late humorist Ogden Nash once said, “Happiness is having a scratch for every itch.” Well, if the itchy skin is caused by a condition called eczema, you won’t be very happy. Scratching is a giant no-no when it comes to atopic dermatitis—another name for eczema. The temptation is there, but if you run those comforting fingernails over that skin rash, you risk causing a serious infection or even such long-term effects as unpleasant looking scars.

Unfortunately, there is no out and out ‘eczema cure’ for the various forms of the condition. The medical profession hasn’t even come to any conclusive agreement about what causes eczema. So what do you do to get relief from recurring eczema symptoms? The best source of information about eczema is your dermatologist—and if you have recurring flare-ups of eczema, or the related condition known as psoriasis, you should have on ongoing professional relationship with a dermatologist.

Your dermatologist will be able to prescribe eczema medicine that is stronger and more effective than the cortisone eczema lotions you can buy in the drug store. However, you can help with your eczema treatment by avoiding the triggers that bring on the outbreaks; a big one is stress. An exam at school or a work project with a tight deadline can start an attack. Learn to meditate instead of stressing out. Allergic reactions can also trigger eczema outbreaks. Foods that are high in nickel content (broccoli, lentils and chocolate, for example), food cooked in pots and pans that contain nickel, and contact with jewelry and accessories that are made of nickel compounds are all potential eczema triggers.

About the Author
Martin A. David consults as a Senior Technical Writer for a number of Silicon Valley firms. He is also a translator, specializing in Danish, French and Spanish literary works. He has written numerous feature articles for publications including the Los Angeles Times. He has also published a novel, and a non-fiction book in the area of dance. Martin earned his B.A. in Liberal Arts from Brooklyn College in his native New York. He currently chairs the Santa Clara Cultural Advisory Commission in Santa Clara, California.