Currently, there is no treatment that will cure eczema. Therefore, conventional interventions are essentially limited to reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort that eczema causes. Discovering the irritants or allergens that cause eczema flare-ups and then avoiding them helps reduce symptoms.

pharmaceuticals

Corticosteroids. Corticosteroid (cortisone) creams or ointments are applied to the affected areas, which reduces itching and inflammation. Creams with less potent steroid content can be used as maintenance therapy once or twice a week. Creams and ointments that have a strong steroid effect are used to relieve severe irritation, but over a short period of time, because in the long term they lose their effectiveness and can thin the skin. Oral corticosteroids are sometimes prescribed for severe eczema, but only for a short time due to side effects, such as loss of minerals from the bones.

antihistamines. Antihistamines can be used occasionally to reduce itching. In particular, they can help young children sleep by preventing them from scratching during rash attacks that occur at night.

Tacrolimus and pimecrolimus. These 2 topical immunomodulatory drugs without steroids are recent. They reduce the activity of the immune system (including inflammation) and are an alternative to corticosteroids with few side effects. However, their long-term safety has not yet been established and there are some concerns that they increase the risk of skin cancer. Their use is not recommended in children under 2 years of age.

Cyclosporine. Used in very severe eczema only, cyclosporine is a fungal agent that has immunomodulatory properties. Administered orally, it would be more effective than topically, but also more dangerous. Due to its side effects on the liver and blood pressure, it can only be used for short periods.

Notes. The antibiotics are needed when a bacterial (especially impetigo) or fungal infection attacks an eczema patch.

Ultraviolet ray treatment

Phototherapy or photochemotherapy (exposure to ultraviolet rays combined with taking a drug that photosensitizes the skin) may be prescribed, obviously except in the case of hypersensitivity of dermatitis to the sun. Devices emitting UVB or UVA radiation are then used. However, patients should be aware that they are at increased risk for cancer and premature aging of the skin. In addition, simple exposure to the sun has beneficial effects in some people.

Psychotherapeutic approaches

All experts in the medical field as well as those in complementary approaches recognize the importance of emotional and psychological factors in eczema. One of the most recognized psychological approaches is cognitive behavioral therapy. It is quite simply a question of modifying what seems to play a significant role in the duration of eruptive crises: the simple fact of scratching. This impulsive but controllable habit damages the skin and makes it more vulnerable.

Obviously, we know that if potential allergens and irritating factors for the skin constitute stresses that can easily be detected, psychological stress (emotional, nervous, etc.) is on the other hand much more intangible. However, its impact on body balance is real.

Note that the effectiveness of educational programs intended for parents has been demonstrated. Through meetings and training, these programs allow parents to better combine the different medical, nutritional and psychological aspects of treating their child’s eczema.

Other treatments

– Use of compression stockings or varicose vein surgery in the case ofvaricose eczema.