Eczema is a skin condition characterised by itchy, red, and swollen patches of the skin. This skin condition is more likely to affect infants, children and adults compared with older people. Red patches may thicken and turn leathery due to long-term scratching and irritation.
So, what triggers eczema? Several things can cause eczema flare-ups. These include cigarette smoke, pollen and even your clothes. It is important that you avoid eczema trigger to avoid hand dermatitis, skin infections, eye complications and exfoliative dermatitis. Take a look at some eczema triggers that lurk in your house.
Dust
Dust mites can cause eczema, especially in young ones. To keep eczema at bay, make sure that a child’s room is properly cleaned every day. It is better to get rid of carpets, rugs, and blinds from their room as these hold a lot of dust. Washing bed linens and curtains weekly in hot water also keeps dust away.
Detergent
Laundry detergents contain harsh ingredients that can cause eczema symptoms. Try to look for a fragrance-free, neutral pH detergent. It is easy on your skin and less likely to be an eczema trigger. Similarly, be careful with other household cleansers. If you have to use an item that may contain an eczema trigger, it is advised to wear rubber gloves before using it.
Heat
Certain climatic conditions can be eczema triggers, particularly summer months. Heat and humidity can cause eczema. If this is one of your eczema trigger, you are advised to stay indoor (in air-conditioned setting) for as much as possible. When you’re outdoors, just make sure that you’re not getting overheated. Beat the heat by finding a cool, shady place.
Cosmetics
Cosmetics can aggravate eczema, especially those containing alcohol, perfumes, lanolin, or preservatives. Even if a product is labelled as “unscented”, it does not mean the product does not contain fragrance. Try to look for the fragrance-free cosmetics.
Pet
A feathered friend of your kid can also cause eczema to flare up. You must always keep animals off sofas and chairs and don’t allow them in the bedroom. Moreover, regular vacuuming of carpet and rugs is a must to keep pet dander at bay.
Food
The most common eczema triggers in food are when people consume cows' milk, eggs, soya, wheat, fish and nuts. Food allergies could cause eczema symptoms. If you suspect certain foods are causing signs of eczema (like redness or wheals), it could be eczema food triggers. Talk to your doctor about it.
Smoke
If you smoke and live with a person with eczema, consider quitting. It is one of the most common eczema triggers.
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