Diet has a lot to do with how healthy you are, and how beautiful you look. Diet also affects the severity of skin conditions, including eczema. Your dermatologist can tell you more. Dr. David Kessler at Massapequa Dermatology in Massapequa, NY, offers comprehensive dermatology services, including diagnosis and treatment of eczema.

The Link Between Diet and Eczema

Eczema is a common skin condition, also known as atopic dermatitis. Eczema severity can increase with exposure to certain factors, including:

• Exposure to an allergen
• Chronically dry skin
• Immune system issues
• Chemical exposure and other environmental factors
• Genetic factors and a family history of eczema

Diet is also a factor in eczema outbreaks. There are several foods that can increase the severity of eczema, including:

• Eggs and milk
• Wheat and soy
• Tomatoes and citrus
• Sugar and gluten
• Nuts and alcohol

To find out which foods cause eczema flare-ups, you can try an elimination diet. Eliminating foods one at a time can help you determine which foods are bad for you and your eczema. Current research indicates that omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce eczema symptoms. Including fish in your diet can increase omega-3 fatty acid consumption.

Eczema flare-ups can be managed by following a few simple tips. You should:

• Take over-the-counter oral or topical antihistamine medications
• Apply calamine lotion to reduce itching
• Apply moisturizer after you take a shower
• Place cool, wet bandages or dressings on eczema patches
• Take daily oatmeal or baking soda baths
• Wear cool, loose, breathable clothing

If you suffer from moderate to severe eczema flare-ups, visiting a dermatologist can help you get the relief you need. Your dermatologist may recommend:

• Prescription-strength topical and oral antihistamine medications
• Antibiotic medications to kill underlying bacteria
• Injectable or oral anti-inflammatory medications
• Medications to relieve itching
• Corticosteroid dressings to relieve itching and inflammation
• Light therapy to reduce or eliminate eczema patches

Want To Know More About The Link Between Diet and Eczema?

To learn more about how diet affects eczema, talk with the experts. Call Dr. David Kessler at Massapequa Dermatology in Massapequa, NY. You can reach them in the office by calling (516) 799-1600, so call today.