Eczema - just give up?
Discussion
My daughter has had eczema since childhood and is now 30's.
She has seen numerous doctors who have prescribed numerous creams, and has been referred to a couple of dermatological specialists in that time by her Dr.. Essentially the eczema waxes and wanes but never goes away. The last dermatological specialist might have been a nurse (not sure) who said that eczema basically happens for no reason and might eventually burn itself out.
Is that basically it? Has anyone been cured and if so how?
Many thanks.
She has seen numerous doctors who have prescribed numerous creams, and has been referred to a couple of dermatological specialists in that time by her Dr.. Essentially the eczema waxes and wanes but never goes away. The last dermatological specialist might have been a nurse (not sure) who said that eczema basically happens for no reason and might eventually burn itself out.
Is that basically it? Has anyone been cured and if so how?
Many thanks.
Edited by Scarletpimpofnel on Thursday 8th August 16:44
I commiserate, a family member has it and it seems to come and go, but never disappears.
Non deadly skin ailments seem to rank low on the pecking order for medical research time and money.
When I had chronic Acne as a teen last century, plenty
sympathy but nil actual help from the medical community, it will go away eventually was the
popular opinion, which it never really did.
Non deadly skin ailments seem to rank low on the pecking order for medical research time and money.
When I had chronic Acne as a teen last century, plenty
sympathy but nil actual help from the medical community, it will go away eventually was the
popular opinion, which it never really did.
Has she ever had an allergy test? I found dairy to affect my eczema so cut that out on nothing more than a hunch and it’s worked wonders.
The creams are a double edged sword as they help but also weaken the skin which is already buggered by the eczema. I use Aveeno to moisturise and medicated cream as a last resort. I’m convinced about the diet though.
The creams are a double edged sword as they help but also weaken the skin which is already buggered by the eczema. I use Aveeno to moisturise and medicated cream as a last resort. I’m convinced about the diet though.
BoRED S2upid said:
Has she ever had an allergy test? I found dairy to affect my eczema so cut that out on nothing more than a hunch and it’s worked wonders.
The creams are a double edged sword as they help but also weaken the skin which is already buggered by the eczema. I use Aveeno to moisturise and medicated cream as a last resort. I’m convinced about the diet though.
Helped greatly for my daughter also. The creams are a double edged sword as they help but also weaken the skin which is already buggered by the eczema. I use Aveeno to moisturise and medicated cream as a last resort. I’m convinced about the diet though.
I've had it since i was six months old, pretty severely. I've seen any number of doctors & consultants in different countries.
Oral steriods are very effective for short term flare ups.
I've been taking immuno suppressant treatment for the last 15 years (ciclosporin, Mycophenolate, and now methotrexate),for me personally, these have been very effective indeed, though they require regular monitoring to sport any side effects - liver & renal impairment being the most common.
Oral steriods are very effective for short term flare ups.
I've been taking immuno suppressant treatment for the last 15 years (ciclosporin, Mycophenolate, and now methotrexate),for me personally, these have been very effective indeed, though they require regular monitoring to sport any side effects - liver & renal impairment being the most common.
Yes it’s the immune system beating the body up, can quite as easily manifest as an IBD or indeed both.
Skin conditions aren’t really taken seriously because I suppose ultimately they are not deadly.
But what doesn’t get considered is the quality of the patients life & the affect on their mental health. Quite a big part of the patients suffering IMO.
Moisturising is key but we all know that, diet can help contain flares but ultimately they don’t get rid completely.
Immunosuppressants are the best treatment. Some work better for some individuals than others, & as mentioned require regular blood tests for liver/renal function. Side effects can be quite harsh but again tweaking the dose mitigates this.
Speak to a specialist & almost demand one of these treatments backing it up with evidence of the effects on the quality of your life.
They should take you seriously if you take a stand & then send you off for preliminary blood tests to make sure you can begin a course. Good luck.
Skin conditions aren’t really taken seriously because I suppose ultimately they are not deadly.
But what doesn’t get considered is the quality of the patients life & the affect on their mental health. Quite a big part of the patients suffering IMO.
Moisturising is key but we all know that, diet can help contain flares but ultimately they don’t get rid completely.
Immunosuppressants are the best treatment. Some work better for some individuals than others, & as mentioned require regular blood tests for liver/renal function. Side effects can be quite harsh but again tweaking the dose mitigates this.
Speak to a specialist & almost demand one of these treatments backing it up with evidence of the effects on the quality of your life.
They should take you seriously if you take a stand & then send you off for preliminary blood tests to make sure you can begin a course. Good luck.
Investigate diet, as stated above, and anything that is in contact with the skin.
So that would include everything from fabric types, washing up liquid - to clothes detergents, or toiletries.
All of the above contain chemicals that can set it off.
Stress is also a factor with eczema leading to increased inflammatory responses, although it is more difficult to control stress as it is a nebulous thing.
So that would include everything from fabric types, washing up liquid - to clothes detergents, or toiletries.
All of the above contain chemicals that can set it off.
Stress is also a factor with eczema leading to increased inflammatory responses, although it is more difficult to control stress as it is a nebulous thing.
I've been dealing with this since infancy. I've tried all sorts of lotions and potions (although not immunosuppressants due to the GPs and dermatologists being useless) but, ultimately, flare ups will always happen.
I have found that anti dandruff shampoo (H&S and Nizoral work for me) and a cool shower soothes initially and seems to calm the inflammation after a few days. That's how I manage my eczema.
As for the mental aspect, I suspect that may contribute to me not being in the best shape as I don't like taking my shirt off anyway (my eczema covers my back, chest and tops of the arms) so even if I was an Adonis then I'd keep covered. Also, the bloody clothes and bedsheets really make me self conscious.
Don't give up, though. Learn to manage it as best as you can and just keep ploughing on!
I have found that anti dandruff shampoo (H&S and Nizoral work for me) and a cool shower soothes initially and seems to calm the inflammation after a few days. That's how I manage my eczema.
As for the mental aspect, I suspect that may contribute to me not being in the best shape as I don't like taking my shirt off anyway (my eczema covers my back, chest and tops of the arms) so even if I was an Adonis then I'd keep covered. Also, the bloody clothes and bedsheets really make me self conscious.
Don't give up, though. Learn to manage it as best as you can and just keep ploughing on!
Just parroting what others have said, but
My sister had severe eczema and asthma as a child which has continued into adulthood.
She has found several things triggered her. Any dairy, fabric softener (conditioner) and weirdly, rubber washing up gloves, amongst other things......
But it took a long time to realise some things (especially the gloves) mainly through trial and error.
My sister had severe eczema and asthma as a child which has continued into adulthood.
She has found several things triggered her. Any dairy, fabric softener (conditioner) and weirdly, rubber washing up gloves, amongst other things......
But it took a long time to realise some things (especially the gloves) mainly through trial and error.
Thanks for all the replies above. All very helpful. My daughter has had all sorts of pills and potions but not immuno supressions... they sound quite harsh ... but I accept they may be necessary.
That said she has not had a blood/skin allergy test so that is a starting point. She was put forward by a consultant to get one done by the NHS four years ago but heard nothing so I have put in an enquiry to a private provider just now.
PS - She is vegan so can't be dairy. She has trialled periods missing different food groups out, changing washing materials etc etc etc. She has tried many many things.
That said she has not had a blood/skin allergy test so that is a starting point. She was put forward by a consultant to get one done by the NHS four years ago but heard nothing so I have put in an enquiry to a private provider just now.
PS - She is vegan so can't be dairy. She has trialled periods missing different food groups out, changing washing materials etc etc etc. She has tried many many things.
Maybe a different approach from me.
I’ve had eczema (and other fungal skin conditions) for over 20 years. Tried loads of different creams both prescribed and over the counter. Some worked temporarily but it always came back frustratingly. At a minimum I had to cover myself in emulsifying cream every day.
But about 6 months ago I bought an ice bath, which was shortly followed by an infrared sauna. I then started doing a 20/30 minute sauna followed by a cold plunge for about 5/10 minutes (dependant on temperature) every other day. This has been great for my skin and now I don’t have any skin issues at all. My guess is that it’s more to do with the sauna than the ice bath as it really opens up the pores and flushes out any toxins etc.
I’ve also had athletes foot (again fungal) for 15 years plus, again that has now completely cleared up and I no longer use any creams etc. I don’t really know the science behind it but maybe the various creams and potions clog the skin in some way so it never really gets the chance to naturally recover, who knows but it’s worked miracles for me.
I’ve had eczema (and other fungal skin conditions) for over 20 years. Tried loads of different creams both prescribed and over the counter. Some worked temporarily but it always came back frustratingly. At a minimum I had to cover myself in emulsifying cream every day.
But about 6 months ago I bought an ice bath, which was shortly followed by an infrared sauna. I then started doing a 20/30 minute sauna followed by a cold plunge for about 5/10 minutes (dependant on temperature) every other day. This has been great for my skin and now I don’t have any skin issues at all. My guess is that it’s more to do with the sauna than the ice bath as it really opens up the pores and flushes out any toxins etc.
I’ve also had athletes foot (again fungal) for 15 years plus, again that has now completely cleared up and I no longer use any creams etc. I don’t really know the science behind it but maybe the various creams and potions clog the skin in some way so it never really gets the chance to naturally recover, who knows but it’s worked miracles for me.
It's worth giving organic, unrefined shea butter a try. It's cheap, so if it isn't effective for you, you've not really lost much. About £8 for 500g. Just heat a small amount up between your hands until it turns into an oil and rub it in.
Been brilliant for my mild psoriasis and has helped a friend with bad eczema.
Been brilliant for my mild psoriasis and has helped a friend with bad eczema.
mike9009 said:
Just parroting what others have said, but
My sister had severe eczema and asthma as a child which has continued into adulthood.
She has found several things triggered her. Any dairy, fabric softener (conditioner) and weirdly, rubber washing up gloves, amongst other things......
But it took a long time to realise some things (especially the gloves) mainly through trial and error.
nothing weird about the rubber washing up gloves.My sister had severe eczema and asthma as a child which has continued into adulthood.
She has found several things triggered her. Any dairy, fabric softener (conditioner) and weirdly, rubber washing up gloves, amongst other things......
But it took a long time to realise some things (especially the gloves) mainly through trial and error.
its the rubber and latex that are really bad for eczema sufferers. soemthing i found out the hard way "avoiding dishwashers soap at school for my skin when infact it was the rubber gloves doing mega damage. the dishwasher soap wasnt ever causing an issue.
Eczema lost me a very good part of my mid 20s to early 30s of my life its a bloody cruel thing to have...
Scarletpimpofnel said:
Thanks for all the replies above. All very helpful. My daughter has had all sorts of pills and potions but not immuno supressions... they sound quite harsh ... but I accept they may be necessary.
That said she has not had a blood/skin allergy test so that is a starting point. She was put forward by a consultant to get one done by the NHS four years ago but heard nothing so I have put in an enquiry to a private provider just now.
PS - She is vegan so can't be dairy. She has trialled periods missing different food groups out, changing washing materials etc etc etc. She has tried many many things.
Sorry but with eczema the body is having a hard enough time as it is IMO she is goign to have to decide whats more important her morals or her health.That said she has not had a blood/skin allergy test so that is a starting point. She was put forward by a consultant to get one done by the NHS four years ago but heard nothing so I have put in an enquiry to a private provider just now.
PS - She is vegan so can't be dairy. She has trialled periods missing different food groups out, changing washing materials etc etc etc. She has tried many many things.
Your body needs all the help it can get and missing out a huge food group is not going to help.
Not saying it will cure it. but you have to give the body every single chance against eczema.
My eczema cleared up after I eliminated shampoo and shower gel with sodium laureth sulphate and sodium lauryl sulphate in. I use Dr Bronner's castile soap (the peppermint one) and Urtekram coconut shampoo. I also did the York Test and adjusted my diet accordingly.
If any pharma evangelists pipe up with the phrase "evidence based" tell them to do one. Healthy people aren't profitable.
If any pharma evangelists pipe up with the phrase "evidence based" tell them to do one. Healthy people aren't profitable.
Richtea1970 said:
Maybe a different approach from me.
I’ve had eczema (and other fungal skin conditions) for over 20 years. Tried loads of different creams both prescribed and over the counter. Some worked temporarily but it always came back frustratingly. At a minimum I had to cover myself in emulsifying cream every day.
But about 6 months ago I bought an ice bath, which was shortly followed by an infrared sauna. I then started doing a 20/30 minute sauna followed by a cold plunge for about 5/10 minutes (dependant on temperature) every other day. This has been great for my skin and now I don’t have any skin issues at all. My guess is that it’s more to do with the sauna than the ice bath as it really opens up the pores and flushes out any toxins etc.
I’ve also had athletes foot (again fungal) for 15 years plus, again that has now completely cleared up and I no longer use any creams etc. I don’t really know the science behind it but maybe the various creams and potions clog the skin in some way so it never really gets the chance to naturally recover, who knows but it’s worked miracles for me.
Cracking that you've found a solution. Sadly the full enclosure IR saunas are very pricy £6k. Are the cheaper £400 "panels" any good to try? I'm thinking that followed by a cold shower may emulate what you have?I’ve had eczema (and other fungal skin conditions) for over 20 years. Tried loads of different creams both prescribed and over the counter. Some worked temporarily but it always came back frustratingly. At a minimum I had to cover myself in emulsifying cream every day.
But about 6 months ago I bought an ice bath, which was shortly followed by an infrared sauna. I then started doing a 20/30 minute sauna followed by a cold plunge for about 5/10 minutes (dependant on temperature) every other day. This has been great for my skin and now I don’t have any skin issues at all. My guess is that it’s more to do with the sauna than the ice bath as it really opens up the pores and flushes out any toxins etc.
I’ve also had athletes foot (again fungal) for 15 years plus, again that has now completely cleared up and I no longer use any creams etc. I don’t really know the science behind it but maybe the various creams and potions clog the skin in some way so it never really gets the chance to naturally recover, who knows but it’s worked miracles for me.
TwigtheWonderkid said:
It's worth giving organic, unrefined shea butter a try. It's cheap, so if it isn't effective for you, you've not really lost much. About £8 for 500g. Just heat a small amount up between your hands until it turns into an oil and rub it in.
Been brilliant for my mild psoriasis and has helped a friend with bad eczema.
Well at that price it has to be tried. Probably have all the dogs in the area chasing/licking her I guess?Been brilliant for my mild psoriasis and has helped a friend with bad eczema.
MitchT said:
My eczema cleared up after I eliminated shampoo and shower gel with sodium laureth sulphate and sodium lauryl sulphate in. I use Dr Bronner's castile soap (the peppermint one) and Urtekram coconut shampoo. I also did the York Test and adjusted my diet accordingly.
If any pharma evangelists pipe up with the phrase "evidence based" tell them to do one. Healthy people aren't profitable.
I'll get her some of those and will check out that test ty.If any pharma evangelists pipe up with the phrase "evidence based" tell them to do one. Healthy people aren't profitable.
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