Eczema causes

United States
July 15, 2008 6:20am CST
I have struggled for years to try to pinpoint the cause of my eczema. I know it is an allergic reaction to something, but I can't figure out what. I know the sun makes it worse, so when I wear sunscreen that helps. I also know that it is seasonal because I only get it in the summer, usually when it is very hot. I don't know how to narrow it down any further because there are so many things I am coming into contact with and different foods that I eat in summer versus fall and winter. Any ideas how to figure this out? I get it worst on my hands, and some on my arms. Have you figured out the cause of eczema or other allergies? How did you do it?
1 person likes this
2 responses
@roshand8 (1478)
• Sri Lanka
15 Jul 08
Eczema is a name of skin condition.The cause will vary from person to person.There is no cure for eczema but,there are number of ways to relieve it.Any thing that dries or irritate the skin will be a problem.Avoid rough,tight clothing and woolens.Avoid frequent use of soap,hot water and other cleaning procedures that remove natural oil from the skin,bath no more than once daily after bathing the skin should be patted dry don't rub then apply a moisturizing cream before the skin dries.Avoid exposure to the sun and tanning.You get it on summer because your skin tend to dry.Hope this will help you.Cheers...
1 person likes this
• United States
15 Jul 08
I do all of those things to try to lessen the symptoms. My skin is actually much drier in the winter and I moisturize a couple times a day in the winter, as opposed to once a day, at most, in summer. I know the cause is different for different people, but what I'm wondering is, is it possible to pinpoint a specific cause? For instance, that a specific ingredient in some cleaning products or hygiene products is causing it? I get very bad eczema and my preventive measures don't always work, so I'm assuming that something specific I come into contact with is causing it.
1 person likes this
@roshand8 (1478)
• Sri Lanka
15 Jul 08
First you have to find the cause of your eczema dear,because I cannot pinpoint a specific cause for your condition,because it varies from person to person.I cannot assume what type of eczema you have dear..Soap and harsh detergent has an effect,coz they make the skin dry.You can help reduce eczema breakouts by avoiding whatever foods YOU think caused your eczema breakouts.Although,there are no proven links between eczema and one's diet.Some expert advice is less intake of fats and sweets.Be sure what type of eczema your having.It is best to consult a skin specialist.I hope this will help you..Feel free to ask any questions comes in to your mind.cheers....
• United States
15 Jul 08
Perhaps I am not making myself clear. I was not asking for anyone to tell me what the cause of my eczema is. What I am asking is 'Is it possible to pinpoint a cause?' I am looking for a Method. How does a person go about narrowing down all of the possible things that could be causing an allergic reaction?
@risris24 (712)
• United States
15 Jul 08
Unfortunatley doctors don't even know the cause of eczema, all they know is that it is an abnormal function of the immune system that is believed to be a factor. Some forms of eczema can be triggered by substances or products that come in contact with the skin, such as soaps, cosmetics, clothing, detergents, jewelery, and even sweat. Environmental allergens, can also cause outbreaks of eczema. Definitley changes in humidity and even psychological stress both play a large role.
• United States
15 Jul 08
Right, triggered by substances that come in contact with the skin- I know that much. What I'm wondering is, is it possible to get more specific than that- for instance to say that products containing a certain ingredient, or specific foods are causing it? I know that the specific answer will be different for everyone, but is it even possible to pinpoint the substances that cause the outbreaks?
1 person likes this
• United States
15 Jul 08
Yes, it is hereditary. Some other members of my family have it as well. But I am the only one who gets it on my hands. It's a pain, because it's hard to limit contact with your hands- they are the main point of contact with most things.