What Causes Eczema?
It is important to try to understand the medical causes for eczema so that it can be treated appropriately. Eczema is an auto-immune response to a perceived invader. Evidence suggests that food intolerance (as well as food allergies) affect the immune system. Gluten intolerance and milk protein (casein) in particular are linked to auto-immune reactions like skin irritation and may cause eczema. If your eczema is caused by a food allergy, there is possibility that no medications or therapies will be needed once you get the food out of your diet.
Some people live their whole lives with eczema without really trying to understand it. Many have had unsightedly itchy skin all of their lives. With a little research and information, you will be able to determine the cause of your eczema.
While the exact medical cause for eczema is not known, the disease seems to result from a combination of genetic (hereditary) and environmental factors. Evidence suggests the disease is associated with other disorders such as hay fever and asthma, which many people with eczema also have. In addition, many children who outgrow the symptoms of eczema go on to develop hay fever or asthma. Although one disorder does not cause the other, they may be related.
In the past, doctors thought that eczema was caused by an emotional disorder. We now know that emotional factors, like stress, can make the condition worse, but they do not cause the disease. Also, eczema is not contagious. It cannot be passed from one person to another
There are many factors or conditions that can cause eczema to get worse, further triggering the already overactive immune system in the skin, aggravating the itch-scratch cycle, and increasing damage to the skin. Bathing without proper moisturizing afterward can cause eczema to worsen. The low humidity of winter or the dry year-round climate of some geographical areas can also make the condition worse, as can overheated indoor areas and long or hot baths or showers. A lukewarm bath helps to clean and moisturize the skin without drying it excessively. Because soaps are so drying to the skin, your doctor may recommend limited use of a mild soap or nonsoap cleanser. Bath oils are not usually helpful and some may even irritate the skin and cause eczema to become worse.
Bacterial infections can also trigger or increase the severity of eczema. If a patient experiences a sudden flare-up, the doctor may check for a viral infection (such as herpes simplex) or a fungal infection (such as ringworm or athlete’s foot). It is important to keep a record of when your flare-ups occur so your doctor can work with you to determine the cause of your eczema and the best treatment plan for you.
Glossary:
Auto-immune response: The body’s way of attacking foreign substances in order to maintain health.