A moderate case of eczema of the hands
Photo: James Heilman, MD [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Wikimedia Commons
Eczema is a skin disease characterized by the appearance of a scaly rash associated with itching. It usually starts as blisters that crust and form thick patches of scaly lesions. It is a non-contagious condition and is often associated with a history of allergy. The exact cause is not known though there are certain risk factors that predispose people to eczema. These risk factors include allergies, dry skin, sudden change in temperature and stress. Exposure to irritants like synthetic clothes, soaps and detergents, perfumes, dust, air pollution and tobacco smoke also increases the risk of developing this disorder.
With treatment, the symptoms can remain under control. More than 15 million people in US suffer from eczema. Eczema is most often seen in the young; 65% of cases occur in children under one year of age and 90% in children younger than 5 years.
Itching is the most prominent symptom. It occurs due to the dry scaly nature of the lesions. Raw areas may also appear on skin due to scratching and bleeding may also occur. Blisters with watery discharge are seen that later crust over. The skin around the blisters becomes red and inflamed.
Healing of lesions is followed by the appearance of dry, leathery patches with color changes; lighter or darker than adjacent normal skin. In children, the lesions appear on cheeks, elbows and knees whereas in adults they are more prominent over the inner side of elbows and knees.
Eczema is not curable, therefore the aim of treatment is to control the symptoms, allow healing of skin lesions and prevent permanent skin damage. Regular skin care and proper nutrition is essential to delay the progression of disease.
How USANA Products may help individuals with Eczema
CellSentials – For eczema, antioxidants such as green tea extract, quercetin, olivol and proflavanol all contribute to the better control of symptoms as these have antihistamine and anti inflammatory properties. Minerals such as Zinc promote tissue repair. In some studies, it has been found that zinc levels are low in individuals affected by eczema.
A higher concentration of Vitamin C in Proflavanol C 100, provides the increased anti inflammatory effect needed, especially when flares are evident. The vitamin C incorporated is also important in the care and repair of the skin.
BiOmega provides the linoleic acid and omega-3 fatty acids that have been found in studies to reduce symptoms of eczema by reducing the release of Leukotriene (an inflammatory substance in the body).
Eczema is considered an auto immune condition, thus adding Probiotics in the diet supports better overall immunity by the promotion of good bacteria in the gut.Disclaimer
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat or prevent any diseases. No individual should, at any time, use the information found here for self-diagnosis, treatment, or justification in accepting or declining any medical therapy for any health problems or diseases. Any application of the advise herein is at the readers own discretion and risk. Therefore, any individual who has scientific health problem or is taking medications must first seed advise from his or her personal physician or healthcare provider before starting a nutritional supplement program.