When a flare-up occurs, you may feel like you’re at the mercy of your eczema, as it becomes increasingly red, itchy and painful due to inflammation. It’s essential to “nip” an eczema flare-up in the bud, before it worsens, to minimize its severity. If left untreated, a flare-up can easily become uncontrollable, making it more difficult to restore your skin to its previous condition. That’s why an eczema emergency kit is here to offer a rapid response to sudden skin irritations and bring fast relief.
What are the signs of an eczema flare-up?
A flare-up is a recurrence of eczema symptoms, usually manifesting as a red, itchy rash.
You may also notice:
- Inflamed reddish-brown or gray patches, particularly on the hands, feet, chest, neck and inside the elbows and knees.
- Severe itching that worsens at night.
- Dry skin that can become rough or swollen from scratching.
- Small, raised bumps that may crust over or leak fluid.
- Skin that thickens and cracks.
- These symptoms may disappear for a while, then reappear.
Eczema may be chronic or long-lasting.
What are the triggers of an eczema flare-up?
Although eczema affects everyone differently, here are some well-known eczema triggers:
1- Chemicals and irritants:
The products you use every day, such as dish soap, hand sanitizer, disinfectants, cleansers, shampoo, shower gel and laundry detergent, may contain certain chemicals which can trigger eczema. To avoid many common chemical triggers, consider choosing products that are free of fragrance and other additives. Your dermatologist may recommend patch testing to determine which chemicals/irritants your skin is sensitive to.
2- Long, hot showers and baths:
Although a long bath may seem peaceful, exposing the skin to very hot water for long periods is terrible for eczema-prone skin. It’s recommended not to bathe or shower more than once a day with a body cleanser for sensitive skin. Try to keep the water at a medium lukewarm temperature and set a time limit of 10 minutes or less.
3- Dry skin:
Many eczema sufferers may notice that episodes of dry skin precede the onset of eczema symptoms. In fact, the tight, flaky, brittle nature of dry skin provides an environment conducive to the onset of symptoms.
4- Scratching:
Eczema is sometimes referred to as the itch that causes rashes, as eczema-related rashes often occur after the skin has been damaged (by scratching or picking). Eczema sufferers need to moisturize daily to prevent skin dryness and subsequent eczema flare-ups. It’s also advisable to keep nails smooth and trimmed.
5- Certain fabrics:
Wool and synthetic fibers such as polyester have an abrasive nature that can cause sudden skin irritations and itching when they rub against the skin. Avoid this phenomenon by choosing soft cotton garments with a looser fit.
6- Extreme temperatures:
Some people may notice an increase in eczema symptoms during the summer or winter months. For many, exposure to high heat (and even sweating) or cold, dry weather can trigger flare-ups. Others may experience severe symptoms in response to sudden climatic changes.
7- Stress:
Physical and emotional stress can trigger eczema flare-ups. In fact, many eczema sufferers report that their symptoms worsen when they feel stressed. Stress impacts hormone levels as well as the immune system, which can ultimately lead to worsening eczema symptoms.
8- Sunscreen:
Protecting the skin from UV exposure is important for eczema sufferers, as sunburn is often the trigger for the onset of symptoms. Unfortunately, the ingredients in many chemical sunscreens can be just as irritating. Try to choose a “physical” sunscreen whose active ingredients are zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide only. Physical sunscreens protect the skin without causing irritation.
9- Allergies:
Exposure to allergens is a very common trigger for eczema flare-ups. Patients who are allergic to dust mites, molds, or pollen should try to avoid this exposure and may even need to see an allergist to help manage allergy symptoms.
10- Food:
Food allergy is another potential trigger for eczema, most often seen in childhood. However, “elimination diets”, i.e. diets that eliminate many foods such as fish, eggs, dairy products, soy, nuts and wheat, should not be attempted until evaluated by a dermatologist.
What is an eczema emergency kit?
Common components of an emergency eczema kit may include:
- Gloves (for handling materials that can irritate the skin)
- Moisturizing cream or lotion or balm
- Antibiotic ointment
- Gentle cleanser
- Hypoallergenic wet wipes
- Adhesive bandages
- Gauze compresses
- Spare bandages
- Protective clothing
- Eczema medication
- Small cooler and ice packs for medicines requiring refrigeration
- Eczema-friendly sunscreen
What is an emergency guide for eczema?
Flare-ups of eczema can occur suddenly and cause pain and anxiety. This is a step-by-step guide to assist you in responding to eczema emergencies quickly and efficiently:
Step 1: Determine the cause
Watch out for things like certain fabrics, skin care products, certain weather conditions, or stress that might act as triggers.
Step 2: Get your emergency supplies ready
Make sure everything you need is in your eczema emergency kit, and that it is readily accessible. Gather the necessary items listed in the section above.
Step 3: Apply the right product
- Assess the severity of the outbreak and select the appropriate product from your emergency kit.
- Apply instant soothing cream to soothe itching and inflammation, paying particular attention to the affected areas.
- In the event of intense flare-ups, use rescue balm to deeply moisturize and protect your skin.
- Use hypoallergenic wet wipes to gently cleanse your skin without causing further irritation.
- For open or oozing eczema wounds, apply sterile dressings to protect your skin from infection.
- Don’t forget to apply a sunscreen suitable for eczema if you’re going out, to prevent sun-induced flare-ups.
Step 4: Monitor and adjust
Monitor your skin’s response to treatment and make any necessary adjustments. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional.
Also, take note of any triggers or habits that may have contributed to the flare-up to help prevent future incidents.
You can effectively manage sudden flare-ups and minimize discomfort by following this quick guide to eczema emergency measures and keeping a fully equipped eczema emergency kit on hand.
Conclusion
Having these essentials on hand can help prevent the itching and discomfort of eczema when you’re away from home. You may have to try several moisturizers and soaps before you find the right one. But once you do, your skin will feel much more comfortable wherever you go!
Last Updated on April 18, 2024
