Eczema is likely one of the most typical pores and skin circumstances within the UK, with 1 in 10 adults thought to undergo from it, however regardless of its prevalence many eczema myths nonetheless persist. This may forestall victims from getting the suitable data, or looking for efficient therapy.
So, we spoke to Dr Donald Grant, GP and Senior Medical Advisor at The Unbiased Pharmacy, to resolve what precisely eczema is, and the myths that want correcting.
What’s eczema?
Eczema, also referred to as “atopic dermatitis” is a standard non-contagious pores and skin situation that may trigger painful, itchy, dry pores and skin. “It is a power situation affecting hundreds of thousands across the UK,” says Dr Grant, and “it impacts each kids and adults,” he provides. Whereas there isn’t any identified remedy for eczema, it may be handled to make it extra comfy.
What are some eczema myths that want debunking?
In keeping with Dr Grant, “for victims, it’s important to grasp the reality behind the situation to make sure they get the proper assist, remedies and recommendation,” so under he busts some frequent misconceptions.
1. Eczema solely impacts kids
“As talked about beforehand, eczema is a power situation affecting each kids and adults,” explains Dr Grant. “Whereas it’s frequent for the situation to be recognized throughout childhood, eczema will be introduced on at any age. Grownup-onset eczema is pretty frequent and will be attributable to publicity to totally different irritants or hormonal modifications,” he provides.
2. Eczema is attributable to poor hygiene
“Opposite to fashionable perception, eczema will not be attributable to poor hygiene. As an alternative, numerous different components can set off the situation, together with stress, genetics or any irritants that may react badly with the pores and skin. A scarcity of washing could enhance the danger of catching ailments or infections, however it received’t increase the probability of growing a power situation, corresponding to eczema,” says Dr Grant.
Actually, extra hygiene led to a surge of eczema instances throughout lockdown, when hand-washing and utilizing anti-bac grew to become rather more frequent. In keeping with the Pores and skin Life Sciences Basis, virtually 4 out of 5 (78%) adults reported a flare-up or worsening of their pores and skin circumstances because of elevated hand hygiene.
Even so, usually, “it’s critical to take care of wholesome hygiene ranges to keep away from worsening the situation. Common washing can maintain pores and skin hydrated, defending towards dry pores and skin and different eczema signs,” says Dr Grant.
3. Eczema will go away by itself
“Like all well being concern, eczema ought to by no means simply be ignored. The situation can turn out to be loads worse with out therapy or way of life changes,” warns Dr Grant. “Firstly, with the pores and skin’s pure barrier damaged, micro organism might rapidly result in infections. Moreover, ignoring eczema can dramatically influence individuals’s high quality of life – itchiness can influence sleep high quality, resulting in fatigue and raised stress ranges,” he says.