Eczema Canada - Adult Eczema

For many people, eczema has become a life-long struggle to control the itchy, red, weeping, and often times, painful condition of their skin. Although a number of treatments have been successful in managing the terrible discomfort of eczema, no one treatment has safely or effectively worked for everyone, every time. Even after your skin has healed from one eczema 'flare-up', it is important that you continue to look after your skin. This can help reduce 'flare-ups' and help you control your eczema.

A number of different factors appear to trigger 'flare-ups' of eczema. By nature, eczema symptoms come and go. At times, symptoms can be more severe, or the rash and itching can completely disappear for a long period of time. However, when symptoms suddenly reappear or become worse, it is called a 'flare-up'. Certain foods, pollen, air pollution, animal dander, mould, dust, and dust mites have all been linked to eczema 'flare-ups'. Managing your environment can be a frustrating and time-consuming job. If you suspect that you may be affected by these triggers, talk to your doctor, tell them when your eczema 'flares-up' and what you suspect the 'flare-up' may be linked to.

What triggers your eczema?

Triggering factor	Yes/No	Eczema symptoms
Stress Anger Frustration Anxiety
Hot weather Cold weather Humidity Dry weather Sun
Sweat
Wool Synthetic fibers Latex Rubber Plastic
Hot baths Hard water Chlorinated water Salt water (oceans, mineral spas)
Air borne pollutants: Dust mites Mould Animal dander Pollen Smog/air pollution
Eggs Milk Wheat Soy Nuts Food additives Seafood Citrus fruits Strawberries
Soaps Detergents Lotions, creams Perfumes Make-up Hair shampoos, styling aids, conditioners
Other:

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Eczema and the sun

Although the sun can be good for eczema, harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays and premature aging may outweigh the benefits. Your doctor may advise that you stay out of the sun as much as possible and use a sunscreen when necessary.

Managing the itch

The itch that goes along with eczema can be very difficult to put up with and to manage. Having a good scratch is difficult to resist because it can make you feel so good in the short-term. It seems that the more you think about not scratching, the worse the itch gets.

Managing your eczema can be a life-long commitment. Even after your skin has healed and the eczema has 'disappeared', it is important that you follow your skin management program. It can help to reduce 'flare-ups' and help you control your eczema.

1.	Which challenges do you encounter most frequently in following an eczema treatment plan? (Check all that apply)
		Forgetting to apply the medication
		Forgetting to have the prescription refilled before it runs out
		Work/family/school responsibilities get in the way
		Not sure the medication is working
		Don't have enough information about the condition or the treatment
		The cost of medication

2.	How closely do you follow a health care professional's directions regarding treatment?
		Always follow their directions exactly
		Follow their directions only during a flare-up
		Do not usually follow their directions

3.	If you stopped taking prescribed medication, what was the reason?
		Didn't see results quickly enough
		Experienced side-effects
		Forgot to use it
		Didn't know how to use it
		Takes too much time to apply

Adult Eczema

Tips and information to help you understand eczema, look after your skin, control 'flare-ups' and itching, and feel better.

» Adult Eczema Poll

What triggers your eczema?

Triggering factor

Yes/No

Eczema symptoms

Eczema and the sun

Managing the itch

Ways to manage your eczema

Adult Eczema Poll

1.

Which challenges do you encounter most frequently in following an eczema treatment plan? (Check all that apply)

2.

How closely do you follow a health care professional's directions regarding treatment?

3.

If you stopped taking prescribed medication, what was the reason?

This information can help you take control of eczema right now!

Eczema 'flare-ups'

Quick tips for the itch