Eczema	<< Page 7 of 11 >>

Other names: Atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis

Description:
Eczema is an inflammatory skin disorder that most often occurs in babies and young children, but can occur at any time of life. The disorder is characterized by red and dry skin as well as areas of the skin that are inflamed and oozing. These patches of dry skin are very thick and extremely itchy and can generally be found in the folds of elbows and the skin behind the knees and ears. However, the face and scalp are also prone to the disorder. The itching can be so severe that scratching is inevitable, and may lead to bleeding. Young children with eczema sweat more than normal, and heat and stress may drive them to scratch affected areas.

Atopic dermatitis is an inherited form of eczema that can be found in infancy and early childhood. About 70% of these people have a family history of the disorder and a third of these people develop allergies such as hay fever and asthma. The condition can become worse after exposure to allergens and certain foods. Although most young children outgrow the disorder by age 6, it can be a long-term condition that lasts into puberty and adulthood. Most people do outgrow the problem.

Contact dermatitis is a more common form of eczema and occurs as an allergic reaction to something that has been touched. Any kind of irritant that touches the skin (such as soap, cosmetics, dyes, and other pollutants) can bring about contact dermatitis. The condition is not contagious but can bring about other forms of allergies.

Common causes of contact dermatitis include:

Stress can make any form of the disorder worse. Furthermore, open lesions in the skin caused by excessive scratching can become infected. Therefore, it is important to keep the condition in check and contact a doctor if any major changes take place.

Herbs Used:
Calendula officinalis (Marigold), Symphytum officinalis (Comfrey), Aloe vera, Polygonatum officinale (Solomon's seal), and petrofilin extract.

HS Products:
Zemaiin Ointment.

Recommendations:
It is best to apply the ointment at the first sign of illness and to continue its use for at least a week, even if symptoms disappear or are not apparent.