Controlling Eczema

What is eczema?

First off, let’s talk about what eczema is (and what it isn’t). It’s a chronic inflammation of the skin with a sometimes unknown cause. It usually begins in childhood, and it can extend into adulthood. The skin can be itchy, dry, flaky, red, and cracked. Typically, the skin loses its integrity, which can lead to infection. Eczema is not just normal dryness of the skin, nor is it like a typical allergy.

What can I do to control my eczema?

• Avoid triggering factors - some people have certain triggers that worsen their eczema. These commonly include irritants, dry skin, and exposure to the cold. Obviously, a key factor in controlling eczema is avoiding these triggers.
• Topical steroids - Over-the-counter topical steroids like hydrocortisone can calm inflammation, but it’s not a cure, nor can it be used forever because of many side effects.
• Targeted biologic therapeutics - Some medications like Dupixent® (dupilumab) can help inhibits molecules that tell the body to inflame a given area, preventing eczema flare-ups. This is considered the most effective treatment. These medications generally come in injectable form. Targeted biologic therapeutics can have different side effects; here are the side effects of dupilumab.
• Immune modulators - These medications typically dampen the immune system, also helping to reduce inflammation. However, they can make you more susceptible to infection.

A success story:

One of our patients was suffering from eczema (see the pictures), and she began using Dupixent® to help. It worked wonders; she said “it greatly improved [her] life.” She’s suffered from eczema “since [she] was little. NOTHING worked. Even steroids” didn’t work. She also notes that “It’s greatly improved my asthma and eosinophilic esophagitis”, symptoms that can come with eczema. If you’re looking for eczema treatments in Wallingford, Cheshire, Meriden, or more in Connecticut, Park Avenue Medical can help.