Across North Texas, people of all ages struggle with the persistent itching and inflammation of eczema. Whether experiencing occasional flare-ups or daily symptoms, finding an effective eczema treatment can be a challenge. Fortunately, by working closely with an experienced allergist/immunologist, you can access a personalized treatment plan to reliably manage symptoms. With the right eczema care, many patients do find significant relief and a better quality of life.
Best Options for Managing Eczema Symptoms
There are different types of eczema, each with its own triggers and varying levels of severity. While no cure exists, many eczema treatment approaches can reduce or prevent symptoms.
Eczema Testing and Diagnosis
Diagnosing eczema is the first step in the treatment process. Your doctor will want to determine whether the skin condition is eczema or not, and whether it is atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, or another type. To make an assessment the doctor will perform a physical examination, and also ask relevant questions about your medical history and symptoms. Additionally, allergy testing is important to identify the allergens or irritants that trigger a reaction.
Apply Moisturizer
Consistent use of fragrance-free moisturizer is essential in preventing flare-ups. Covering the affected areas with an appropriate moisturizer helps hydrate the skin and repair the skin barrier. However, with so many products out there, you may need to try a few options to discover how your skin reacts.
Use Topical Medications
Applying topical corticosteroids to inflamed skin should reduce redness and itching. Your doctor will recommend the appropriate medication to address your eczema (depending on severity). Short-term use of topicals often proves to be effective in bettering skin health. If signs of infection are present, you might also be prescribed a topical antibiotic.
Take Oral Medications
Oral medications are often used for more moderate to severe cases of eczema, or when inflammation is present in many areas of the body. Oral corticosteroids and immunosuppressants are examples of medications that tackle severe inflammation, particularly when a person is not responding to other treatment options.
Make Lifestyle Adjustments
Various substances can trigger eczema, including soap, detergents, pet dander, dust mites and foods. In some cases, identifying the underlying cause and avoiding exposure will prevent skin inflammation. For example, using fragrance-free body and hand soaps (along with using gloves when cleaning) helps avoid exposure to irritants.
Get Treatment for Allergies
If pollen, dust mites, pet dander or mold are responsible for triggering a skin reaction, an avoidance approach can be challenging. However, innovative allergy treatments can target the underlying causes, addressing both your allergy and the resulting eczema. Immunotherapy (allergy shots) and sublingual immunotherapy (allergy drops) desensitizes the immune system to the allergen, making your body less likely to react upon exposure.
Best Eczema Treatment Options in North Texas
If you’re experiencing common eczema symptoms, speak with the team at TexasAllergyMD today. We provide effective treatments for managing eczema at our allergy treatment centers in McKinney/Prosper and Southlake. To reach us, call (469) 375-1525 or request an appointment today.
