Beyond Allergy » Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Phototherapy

admin — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 22:05:54 +0000

Phototherapy, or light therapy, is an ultraviolet radiation treatment that consists of exposure to specific wavelengths of light using lasers, LEDs, fluorescent lamps, diachronic lamps, or very bright light, for a certain amount of time. This type of therapy is used in treating acne vulgaris, seasonal affective disorder, non-seasonal depression, delayed sleep phase syndrome, and psoriasis. In the treatment of psoriasis in patients that have given up on topical medications because their lesions are to extensive to cure with topical treatment alone, phototherapy a better option. During phototherapy, the patient’s skin lesions are exposed to ultraviolet light. This treatment is offered at most dermatology clinics and psoriasis centers.
The typical lasers used to treat psoriasis are the excimer laser, Psoralen + Ultraviolet Light A (PUVA), and Ultraviolet B (UVB) Phototherapy.

Atarax, Vistaril (Hydroxyzine hydrochloride)

admin — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 22:05:11 +0000

Hydroxyzine hydrochloride is a sedating antihistamine used mainly to relieve the symptoms of common anxiety and tension and, in combination with other medications, to treat anxiety resulting from physical illness. As an antihistamine, it works by preventing the effects of histamine, substances produced by the body that cause itching, sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes, and other allergic symptoms. It also relieves itching from allergic reactions and has a sedative effect before and after general anesthesia.
It is also used to treat motion sickness by reducing nausea. Hydroxyzine hydrochloride has several trade names with Atarax and Vistaril are among the most popular.

Sandimmune, etc. (Cyclosporine (modified))

admin — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 22:04:28 +0000

Cyclosporine (modified) is an immunosuppressant medication normally used to prevent transplant rejection in patients who have received kidney, liver, or heart transplants. It is also for the control and alleviation of symptoms of psoriasis (a skin disease in which red, scaly patches form on some areas of the body), however does not cure this condition. If cyclosporine (modified) is being taken to treat psoriasis, it may take more than 2 weeks for symptoms to improve. Other conditions where cyclosporine is used include rheumatoid arthritis (arthritis caused by swelling of the lining of the joints), Crohn’s disease, and graft-vs-host disease. Trade names of cyclosporine are Neoral, Sandimmune, and Gengraf.

Protopic (Tacrolimus)

admin — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 22:03:38 +0000

Tacrolimus, (also FK-506 or Fujimycin), is a macrolide antibiotic available in a topical ointment that is used for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema), a condition of itching, scaling, reddening, swelling, cracking, weeping, crusting, and inflammation of the skin as symptoms of an allergic reaction. When applied directly on affected areas of the skin, tacrolimus suppresses the immune system reaction and the inflammation by inhibiting an enzyme (calcineurin) crucial T-cell multiplication. It is sold under the trade name, Protopic. To apply Protopic, apply a thin layer to the skin twice daily and follow the necessary precautions given by your doctor.

Elidel cream (Pimecrolimus)

admin — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 22:03:01 +0000

Pimecrolimus is a steroid-free topical medication with immunomodulating and anti-inflammatory properties used for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema). It is prescribed to control skin allergy symptoms such as itching, skin tingling sensation, small bumps, scaling, inflammation, or redness. The way pimecrolimus works is not certain but scientists know that it significantly reduces the action of T-cells and mast cells which are part of the immune system and contribute to responses of the immune system. It prevents the activation of T-cells by blocking the effects of chemicals (cytokines) released by the body that stimulates T-cells. Pimecrolimus also reduces the ability of mast cells to release chemicals that promote inflammation. It is safe to use on the face, neck and around the eyes. It is odor-free, non greasy, and absorbs quickly. The most prescribed brand is Elidel marketed by Novartis.

Aristocort, etc. (Triamcinolone)

admin — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 22:02:26 +0000

Triamcinolone is a synthetic corticosteroid which comes in the form of an ointment, cream, lotion, liquid, and aerosol (spray) for use on the skin. It is used to treat itching, redness, dryness, scaling, crusting, inflammation, and all sorts of skin discomforts. This medication is used to treat allergic skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, rashes, insect bites, and plant allergies.
Triamcinolone can also be given orally, by injection, or by inhalation. Incorrect usage would lead to various side effects such as acne, burning, drying or cracking of the skin, itching, change in skin color, and inflammation. Trade names of triamcinolone include Aristocort, Nasacort, Tri-Nasal, Triderm, and Kenalog.

Cetaphil, etc. (Cleansing Creams)

admin — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 22:01:53 +0000

Applying cleansing cream is an essential skin care regimen that is often disregarded. Proper cleansing of the skin is very important in preventing skin irritation. Cleansing creams soothe and cleanse the skin, gently lift away makeup and surface residue as well as other impurities and excess oils, leaving the skin soft, supple, and purified. Water, mineral oil, waxes, and herbal extracts are key contents of cleansing creams recommended for those with dry or sensitive skin. Apply cleansing cream generously on the face and on the throat by gently massaging with two fingers then remove with cotton or tissue pads. Wash of excess cream from the face with warm water. Follow with a splash of cool water.

Lukewarm Bath with mild soaps

admin — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 22:01:15 +0000

To protect sensitive skin, taking a lukewarm bath would be helpful to cleanse and moisturize the skin. Soaps can dry the skin so it is best to use mild bar soaps or non-soap cleansers that do not contain harsh ingredients and artificial fragrances that can be irritating to the skin. Mild soaps that contain witch hazel, aloe vera, vegetable oil, herbal oils, evening primrose oil, olive oil, coconut oil, chamomile, lavender, rosemary, and peppermint, are the best for soothing, refreshing, and moisturizing the skin. After a lukewarm bath, the skin should be air-dried or dried by patting the skin dry gently with a towel, avoiding brisk rubbing. Using lotion afterwards can help seal in the water absorbed into the skin during the bath.