What is Eczema?
Eczema or atopic dermatitis is a very common skin condition that causes itchy, red, dry and irritated skin.
The pathophysiology of eczema is complex and multifactorial, involving elements of barrier dysfunction, alterations in immune responses, IgE mediated hypersensitivity, and environmental factors.
Overall prevalence of eczema is 13.4%, highest observed in males, Malays and those with atopic background such as asthma, hay fever and family history of atopic diseases.
Common Risk Factors
Sign & Symptoms
•Itchy, dry skin
•Small, raised bumps
•Cracked skin
•Skin redness
Complications
•Secondary bacterial skin infection
•Scarring
•Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation
•Anxiety & depression
Food to Focus
•Fatty fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel)
•Food high in probiotics (yogurt, miso soup, tempeh)
•Food high in inflammation-fighting flavonoids (apples, broccoli, cherries, spinach, kale)
Food to Avoid
•Dairy products
•Egg
•Soy
•Some types of nuts
Lifestyle Modifications
•Apply skin moisturizer day & night
•Wear natural fabrics to reduce skin irritation
•Avoid hot showers
•Avoid food that triggers flare-up
•Avoid irritants
•Avoid scratching the affected areas
•Manage stress with meditation
References
1. Eczema (atopic dermatitis): Causes, treatment & symptoms [Internet]. Cleveland Clinic. [cited 2022Jan5]. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9998-eczema
2. MB; DBWTJAT. Atopic dermatitis: Pathophysiology [Internet]. Advances in experimental medicine and biology. U.S. National Library of Medicine; [cited 2022Jan5]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29063428/
3. YL; GYYKFC. Prevalence of atopic dermatitis and pattern of drug therapy in Malaysian children [Internet]. Dermatitis : contact, atopic, occupational, drug. U.S. National Library of Medicine; [cited 2022Jan5]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29762208/
4. Whelan C. Eczema diet: Foods to eat and foods to avoid [Internet]. Healthline. Healthline Media; 2018 [cited 2022Jan5]. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/skin-disorders/eczema-diet
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