5 frequent eczema myths debunked by a health care provider

Eczema is without doubt one of the most typical pores and skin situations 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 fitting info, or looking for efficient therapy.

So, we spoke to Dr Donald Grant, GP and Senior Medical Advisor at The Impartial Pharmacy, to resolve what precisely eczema is, and the myths that want correcting.

What’s eczema?

Eczema, also called “atopic dermatitis” is a typical 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 a identified treatment 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 right 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 might be introduced on at any age. Grownup-onset eczema is pretty frequent and might be attributable to publicity to totally different irritants or hormonal adjustments,” he provides.

2. Eczema is attributable to poor hygiene

“Opposite to widespread perception, eczema isn’t attributable to poor hygiene. As an alternative, varied different elements can set off the situation, together with stress, genetics or any irritants that may react badly with the pores and skin. An absence of washing might enhance the danger of catching illnesses or infections, however it gained’t elevate the chance of creating a power situation, akin to eczema,” says Dr Grant.

The truth is, extra hygiene led to a surge of eczema circumstances throughout lockdown, when hand-washing and utilizing anti-bac turned way 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 situations because of elevated hand hygiene.

Even so, typically, “it’s vital to keep up wholesome hygiene ranges to keep away from worsening the situation. Common washing can hold pores and skin hydrated, defending in opposition to dry pores and skin and different eczema signs,” says Dr Grant.

3. Eczema will go away by itself

“Like several well being concern, eczema ought to by no means simply be ignored. The situation can turn out to be quite a bit worse with out therapy or life-style changes,” warns Dr Grant. “Firstly, with the pores and skin’s pure barrier damaged, micro organism might shortly 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.