Top 9 Remedies for Atopic Dermatitis

Top 9 Remedies for Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis or eczema is a disorder that results in dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. Although it can happen to anybody, it is more common in young children. Atopic dermatitis is a persistent skin condition and can occasionally flare up. Although not contagious, eczema can increase the risk of developing asthma, hay fever, and food allergies. The condition does not have a permanent cure, but certain home remedies can help relieve its symptoms.

Understanding atopic dermatitis
Skin disease is a condition that causes symptoms like rashes, inflammation, itching, or other changes. Some skin diseases may be genetic, while others result from lifestyle or environmental factors. Atopic dermatitis, also called eczema, is a skin disease often triggered by environmental factors or allergens like weather changes, dampness, molds, dust mites, pollen, and pet fur. It can sometimes result from food allergies, such as intolerance to peanuts, soya, and gluten. The symptoms of atopic dermatitis can be observed anywhere on the body and differ significantly from person to person. However, some common symptoms are:

  • Cracked, dry skin
  • Itchy skin (pruritus)
  • Small, raised bumps
  • Crusting and oozing patches
  • Excessively thick skin
  • Darker skin around the eyes
  • Skin that feels itchy and raw from scratching

Top remedies
Several home treatments can help one manage eczema symptoms like irritation, rashes, inflammation, and infection.

Use natural moisturizers
One should moisturize their skin to relieve itching and improve moisture retention. Research supports the effectiveness of the following remedies:

  • Coconut oil: It helps hydrate the skin and remove germs. Applying coconut oil on wet skin twice a day can improve eczema symptoms. One must use virgin or cold-pressed coconut oil for better results.
  • Sunflower oil : Sunflower oil may assist in enhancing the strength of the skin barrier and reducing inflammation when applied twice every day.
  • Cardiospermum : This plant extract can help reduce bacteria, itching, and skin irritation.

Apply aloe vera gel
Aloe vera gel has been used for centuries to manage various skin diseases, including eczema. Aloe vera gel has antibacterial and anti-microbial properties, which can boost the immune system and help heal wounds. The gel can prevent skin infections that develop due to dry, cracked skin. One can get the gel at a store or pharmacy and use it several times a day.

Use apple cider vinegar solution
ACV is a popular home remedy for many skin diseases, and according to National Eczema Association, ACV can help relieve eczema symptoms. However, the organization also recommends exercising caution as excessive amounts of ACV can damage soft skin tissue. ACV helps in balancing the skin’s acidity levels and fights bacteria. Research also suggests that using ACV on the skin can fight bacteria, like E. coli and S. aureus, preventing infections. However, it is important to dilute the ACV with water to avoid burns. So, one can add a teaspoon of ACV to a cup of warm water and apply the solution using cotton. Next, one should cover the area with a clean piece of cotton cloth and leave it for at least 3 hours.

Try a mild bleach bath
This may sound strange, but research suggests that a mild bleach bath can help improve the eczema symptoms due to the solution’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Bleach can kill bacteria on the skin’s surface, including S. aureus, which causes staph infections. To prepare a bleach bath, add half a cup of bleach powder to a full bathtub or use one teaspoon of bleach per gallon of water. Also, one should pour the bleach while the bath water is filling. Next, one can soak in this bleach bath for 5 to 10 minutes and then rinse the body thoroughly with warm water. One can also use lukewarm water to prevent the skin from drying out. Also, if one experiences any discomfort, irritation, or redness, then they should step out of the bath immediately. People with breathing issues or asthma must also avoid bleach baths as they can create strong fumes.

Use oatmeal
Colloidal oatmeal, also called Avena sativa, is made using oats that have been crushed and boiled to extract their skin-healing properties. According to a 2015 study, lotions with oats were found to be an effective solution in relieving eczema symptoms. These lotions have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce skin dryness, scaling, roughness, and itch intensity. One can either get powdered colloidal oatmeal and add it to warm bath water or choose a moisturizer with oats as the primary ingredient and regularly apply it on their skin. Even though colloidal oatmeal is safe for all ages, people with oat or gluten allergies must avoid using oat products.

Try turmeric
Turmeric is a herb that can help improve eczema symptoms. Numerous studies have revealed that applying turmeric helps improve skin disease symptoms. A 2015 study discovered that topical application of turmeric helped relieve eczema-related itching, swelling, and redness. Further, adding 3g to 4g of turmeric to daily meals can also help one manage atopic dermatitis.

Choose foods with vitamin E
Vitamin E is crucial for maintaining the proper functioning of the immune system. It also shields skin cells from free radical damage. In a study, kids with the highest compounds associated with vitamin E had a 67% lower chance of developing eczema and asthma than those with the lowest levels. Skin-friendly foods, like wheat germ oil, sunflower seeds, almonds, hazelnuts, sunflower oil, and pine nuts, which are excellent sources of vitamin E, can help manage eczema.

Use honey
Eczema may worsen when harmful microorganisms enter the skin. Honey’s antibacterial properties can help eliminate these undesirable organisms to relieve itching. Honey can be added to snacks or used topically after combining it with equal parts of olive oil and beeswax. Honey can help lower inflammation, improving the body’s ability to deal with skin diseases.

Apply tea tree oil
Tea tree oil, extracted from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, can help fight skin issues, including eczema. A 2013 study suggests that tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and healing properties. One can use this oil by diluting it with carrier oils, like coconut, almond, or olive oil, before applying it.

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Foods to Eat and Avoid for Optimal Kidney Health

Kidneys help filter waste from the blood and dispose of it off the body via urine. They also help balance the electrolyte and fluid levels in the body. But, conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes may intervene with their ability to work as required. Furthermore, damage to the kidney might also result in chronic kidney disease. Hence making changes in your meal plan is a vital aspect of treatment. You can prevent damage to these organs by following a kidney-healthy meal plan. Below, we will address some foods to eat and avoid for better kidney health. Foods to eat Cauliflower Cauliflower is a nutritious vegetable. It's an excellent source of folate, Vitamins B, K, and C. It's rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like indoles, a fiber source. In addition, you can use mashed cauliflower as a replacement for potatoes. For example, a cup of cooked cauliflower has 40 mg of phosphorous, 176 mg of potassium, and 19 mg of sodium. Sweet potatoes They are relatively similar to white potatoes but have more fiber content, resulting in them breaking down more gradually. Hence, you will experience a less spike in insulin levels. Sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamins and minerals like potassium that help balance the sodium levels in the body and lower their impact on the kidneys. But, since sweet potatoes have a high potassium content, people on dialysis or those with CKD should curtail the intake of this vegetable. Red bell peppers They are rich in flavor and low in potassium, but that is not the sole reason they are considered a hit among people with kidney disease. Red bell peppers have Vitamin C and A sources and are also high in fiber, folic acid, and B6 vitamin content. In addition, red bell peppers are also suitable because they have lycopene, an antioxidant that shields against some cancers. You can eat them raw with a dip, mix them into your salad, or enjoy them as an appetizer. Some people also like roasting bell peppers and using them as a topping for lettuce salads or sandwiches. Olive oil It contains healthy fat and has anti-inflammatory properties. Since it is monosaturated fat, it stays stable even at higher temperatures as you cook. Thus, switching to extra virgin olive oil can give you more antioxidants while you still enjoy your favorite dish. Green vegetables Leafy veggies like spinach, kale, romaine, arugula, and cabbage are hydrating, low in calories, and have high antioxidant and vitamin content. If you wish to be cautious about your mineral levels, you must opt for cabbage and arugula, which are nutrient-rich and lower in sodium, potassium, phosphorous, and calcium. In addition, kale and spinach have a high potassium content, which is ok for people seeking to improve their kidney health, but best for those already dealing with chronic kidney disease. Blueberries They are called superfoods because they are rich in antioxidants and are a low-calorie Vitamin-C and fiber source. You can stock them in abundance from your local grocery store or farmer’s market. You can also shop for frozen berries in the off-season and enjoy healthy smoothies. People with kidney diseases can also eat other berries like raspberries, cranberries, and strawberries. Apples Apples are low in potassium and rich in fiber when you eat them with peel. They also have a natural anti-inflammatory effect and are ideal for your kidneys. Foods to avoid Soda Soda has zero nutritional benefits and instead has high sugar content. It only adds to the extra calories. Some studies link high soda consumption to conditions like kidney disease, osteoporosis, dental problems, and metabolic syndrome. If you opt for their lower calorie alternative like coke zero, even that will do you no good, as it has no nutritional value and contains artificial sweeteners and additives. Hence, you must omit soda and opt for healthy beverages like water. If you do not enjoy plain water, add a slice or two of fresh fruit for added flavor. Avocados Avocadoes are known for their many nutritious qualities. They are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and heart-healthy fats. Even though consuming avocado is often considered healthy, people with kidney disease must avoid it as avocados have a high potassium content. An average-sized avocado has about 690 mg of potassium. If you love the taste and do not want to eliminate it, you can reduce the portion size to only 1/4th of the avocado. In addition, it will lower potassium intake.  Salty foods Sodium or salt is one of the most prevalent inclusions in foods you consume daily. However, their density is higher in processed foods. Salt results in water retention and may cause blood pressure, lung, and heart disease. Healthy kidneys work towards maintaining the correct fluid balance in the body. So, if your kidneys do not function as desired, the fluid balance may be disturbed. Hence, you must curtail sodium-rich foods like processed foods, packaged items, and soy sauce. When cooking meals at home, opt for low-sodium alternatives. You can replace salt with spices and herbs and keep the salt shaker off the table. Dairy Dairy products like yogurt, cheese, ice cream, and milk are rich in protein, calcium, and other vital nutrients. They also contain potassium and phosphorous. People with stage three kidney disease might want to curtail their potassium, phosphorous, and protein intake, which is high in dairy. So, you can instead reach out for dairy alternatives like rice, soy, or almond milk as they have lower potassium, phosphorous, and protein content than cow’s milk. Bananas Though naturally low in sodium, bananas' potassium content is significantly high. So, to ensure your kidney disease does not aggravate, monitor your potassium intake, and it might be challenging if the banana is your staple. Conclusion Whatever you eat or drink will affect your health regardless of any health issue. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight and following a balanced meal plan are prerequisites to staying fit and controlling blood sugar levels. A kidney-healthy meal plan is less about eliminating certain foods but following portion control and finding a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.

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Effective Remedies to Manage Dermatitis Itch

Dermatitis is a skin disorder characterized by inflammation and irritation of the skin. It can happen due to genetics, a highly active immune system, allergies, various irritants, and many more factors. It is a skin condition that is normally harmless to the body. It is not contagious, and symptoms usually vary from mild to severe depending on the cause. Anyone, young or old, can catch dermatitis, and several factors enhance the risk of getting the disease. Signs and symptoms of dermatitisThere are various types of dermatitis, and the symptoms largely depend on the type of disorder. For example, a person might have one type of dermatitis or many. Each dermatitis type shows one or sometimes multiple symptoms. They include itching, red rash, dry skin, blisters filled with fluid, ulcers, and thick, hard, and swollen skin. Most patients with dermatitis will experience itching as the first symptom. Many patients complain of itching as one of the worst things about dermatitis, as it sometimes becomes persistent and does not go away quickly. Dermatitis flares primarily get triggered by an itch–scratch cycle, where the itching causes scratching, which leads to the discharge of inflammatory mediators, resulting in dermatitis and dry skin. Causes of dermatitis itchItching is one of the most complicated symptoms of dermatitis. Several nerve pathways, chemical mechanisms, and other factors, such as faulty skin barrier, cause the itch. However, before knowing about different ways to manage dermatitis itch, it is advised to understand the causes of itch in detail. Modification of skin barrierIn dermatitis patients, the skin barrier changes compared to normal skin. While in normal skin, this barrier protects the inner skin from various irritants and restricts water loss from the body. But in dermatitis, this barrier alters the gene that regulates the skin barrier structure. For this, the level of the moisturizing agent decreases, and cells cannot keep water and start shrinking. All these cause dry skin and imperfect skin barrier that permits irritants and water loss from the skin. Dermatitis flaresThere is a collaborative network between the immune, skin, and nervous systems. The skin becomes red and swollen with dermatitis flares, resulting in itching. Inflammation, caused by several chemical mediators, leads to enhanced blood flow, causing the itch. SweatingExcessive sweating also causes itching and aggravates dermatitis. It is because of the changed sensation in the nerve endings of the sweat gland. Neuropeptides are the chemical mediators that control the sweat gland. People with dermatitis will have more neuropeptides compared to people who do not have the condition. Environmental factorsSome known triggers of dermatitis itching include soaps, detergents, house cleaning products, perfumes, synthetic clothing, animal dander, household dust mites, temperature change, cement, latex, and grass pollen. Scratching and rubbing the affected area might worsen itching. Excessive scratching might lead to bleeding and increase the risks of infection. Here are a few ways to manage dermatitis itch and soothe the skin Ways to manage the dermatitis itch Cool compressGo for a rapid compress for cooling your skin by dampening any washcloth or gauze using cold water. One can use an ice pack or a pack of frozen vegetables such as peas for deep relief. It will numb the specific area but takes about 10 minutes to work. AcupressureResearch indicates that putting pressure on specific spots on your arms helps ease dermatitis itch at any place in your body. To achieve it, bend your left-hand side arm and keep your right hand on the outer part of the elbow crook. Now feel for the top part of your forearm muscles. Massage using your fingertip for about 3 minutes by taking some deep breaths. Bleach bathBathing by using dilute bleach helps in decreasing bacteria on your skin and fighting infections. Add about ½ cup of bleaching powder used in your home in water in your bathtub. Soak your affected body part for 10 minutes. However, make sure not to immerse your head in this bleached water. Once completed, rinse and dry yourself and then moisturize. Taking a bleach bath twice or thrice a week will help. Using a thick moisturizerInstead of thin body lotions, go for some thick moisturizer as it helps manage itching in dermatitis. While shopping, you can check the label for terms such as "barrier cream" or "skin repair." Petroleum jelly will also work if you are looking for some budget options. Oils in your kitchenSome of the oils in your kitchen help manage dermatitis itch. One such oil is sunflower seed oil, which helps soften the skin and is cheaper. Coconut oil also helps in decreasing inflammation and has a nourishing effect. Get coconut oil products with the term 'virgin' written on the label because it means it's an oil that has been treated without losing its healing abilities. HumidifierIf the air in your house is hot and dry, it will dehydrate your sensitive skin and worsen itching and peeling. A good home humidifier helps add moisture to the air inside your home. However, it's necessary to keep the humidifier clean to prohibit the growth of fungi and bacteria. Use hydrocortisoneApplying hydrocortisone in the affected area will prevent the itching from worsening. However, avoid overdoing it as it involves certain side effects. Seek a health expert's advice before proceeding with this remedy. Opt for smooth cotton clothingYou can decrease skin itching by letting go of all kinds of clothing that are rough, scratchy, or made of wool. Always wear cotton clothing in case the weather is hot or during exercise to prevent excessive sweating. Lower stress and anxietyStress and anxiety tend to aggravate dermatitis. Recognizing it and making an attempt to enhance your emotional health helps. For example, try doing meditation or breathing exercises to fight stress. Clip fingernailsWhile sleeping, if your fingernails try scratching the itchy regions, then keep your nails trimmed, or use cotton gloves to avoid scratching. Consult a good dermatologistA good dermatologist can help you make an effective treatment plan that works best for you. With a dermatitis-friendly skincare regime, itching trigger management, and proper medications, it's easy to manage itchy skin. Dermatitis is a skin condition that causes discomfort and usually varies in severity. It arises differently based on various factors like age, skin tone, etc. Even if there is no permanent cure, treating and preventing its most common and irritating symptom – itching can help decrease dermatitis risks.

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