Nummular eczema treatment

Nummular Eczema - Overview

Nummular eczema represents inflammatory disease of the skin. It is a form of itchy rash which typically features with skin changes in a form of coin-shaped patches. This explains the name of the disease. The rash in nummular eczema predominantly affects the arms, buttocks, back and lower legs. In the beginning, the skin lesions are flat but they eventually become scaly and crusty. Nummular eczema is a chronic and recurrent disease with times of remission. Recurrence of the disease is typical for winter months.

The actual cause of nummular eczema has not been identified yet. Therefore, there is no definitive cure which can help patients. Still, the scientists think that several factors may interfere in onset of the disease.

The best possible treatment for nummular eczema includes several approaches. Medicamentous therapy together with natural supplements, dietary changes and self-care techniques has proven to be best option for all people who have to face this form of eczema.

Treatment for Nummular EczemaMedicationsItching that commonly occurs in nummular eczema can be successfully brought under control with steroid creams and ointments. They are generally prescribed by doctors and should be used only for a certain period of time. It is not recommendable for one to use steroid creams or ointment without consulting the doctor since they have numerous side effects. Bacterial superinfection is treated with topical antibiotics. Patients are additionally advised on how to prevent reoccurrence of the infection. Severe forms of nummular eczema require oral steroids.

Nummular eczema can be additionally treated with antihistamines. Benadryl, for example, can be rather effective in reduction of itchiness. Itchy sensations can be intensive and interfere in sleeping so it is best if antihistamines are applied prior to going to bed.

In cases which do not respond to previous medications patients may be given immunomodulators. Protopic and Elidel are two most commonly prescribed immunomodulators in patients suffering from nummular eczema. Immunomodulators have negative effects on the immune system and this is the reason why doctors do not like to prescribe them.Light TherapyLight therapy includes exposure of the affected body parts to natural or artificial light. Side effects of this treatment include premature aging of the skin and potential occurrence of skin cancers.Natural SupplementsPatients may benefit from certain supplements such as green tea, cat's claw, reishi mushroom, olive leaf, evening primrose oil, milk thistle. Prior their usage one is advised to consult the doctor.

Even certain homeopathic remedies may be efficient in alleviation of symptoms. Dietary ChangesThe goal of this treatment is to eliminate all the foods that may be potential triggers of nummular eczema. Normally, all the nutrients, vitamins and minerals can be obtained from a variety of other foods.Self-CareThe itchy sensations can be alleviated by cool and wet compresses. This can also be achieved by having a bath in water which contains baking soda or uncooked oatmeal. Patients with nummular eczema are supposed not to use perfumed soaps. After having a bath they can apply moisturizer on dump skin. Clothes are supposed to be cotton and they should avoid wool and mohair since these materials may trigger symptoms of the disease.