Good Health

ECZEMA or dermatitis is an inflammatory condition of the skin. Patients present with red, itchy skin which may also blister. A good understanding of the triggers and irritants which cause eczema is essential in order to avoid exacerbations of this troublesome condition. There are 2 main types of dermatitis/eczema: - Caused by a problem from ‘within’ the body, this is a condition one is born with.

- Contact dermatitis: This is caused by a substance from outside the body that on contact causes patches of inflammation of the skin.

Although patients with atopic eczema may have no obvious triggers, many exacerbations may be made worse by irritants to the skin:

- Soaps and detergents tend to make the skin dry and consequently more likely to become irritated. Alternatively, emollients, which are soap substitutes and which moisturise the skin, may be used. It is important to protect skin with cotton lined rubber gloves when using detergents. Clothes should be rinsed well after washing and use of non-biological detergents is recommended.

- Perfumes, preservatives and alcohols contained in toiletries and make-up can irritate the skin. Wool can also cause skin irritation and cotton clothing is preferable. Heat aggravates eczema so loose clothing and avoidance of extreme temperatures may help prevent exacerbations.

- Scratching aggravates an itch, creating an ‘itch-scratch’ cycle. It is important to keep fingernails short and consider wearing cotton gloves at night. Anti-scratch mittens can be helpful for babies.

- The most common foods which occasionally trigger eczema include cow’s milk, eggs, soya, wheat, fish, and nuts. Symptoms such as itching, redness, swelling and inflammation around the mouth as well as the development of a rash (urticaria) may develop within two hours of eating the offending food. Other symptoms may occur TREATMENT OPTIONS

- Topical steroids, which reduce inflammation, are used when one or more patches of eczema flare up. There are different formulations available depending on the condition of the skin. Topical steroids should be used until the flare-up has completely cleared, and then stopped, usually after 7-14 days. If there is no improvement after 3-7 days a stronger topical steroid may be prescribed. Emollients and topical steroids should be applied at least 15 minutes apart in order to allow full absorption of one product before application of the next.

- Immunomodulators are licensed for use in people aged two years and over who have eczema which is not controlled with usual treatments. - Antihistamines can help relieve itch. - Tar shampoo may be of benefit for patients who have large amounts of scale. INFECTION

Should you notice areas of weeping, blisters, infected skin lumps, crusts or rapidly worsening eczema you should contact your GP immediately as these can be signs of infected eczema which requires immediate treatment with an antibiotic.

Further information is available from the Irish Eczema Society’s website; www.eczemaireland. org.

Travel sickness is an awful nuisance but you will get relief from nibbling on crystallised ginger, or eating ginger nut biscuits. Nelsons Travella is a supplement that will help to relieve the symptoms of nausea experienced with travel sickness.

Prickly heat is an itchy, inflamed skin rash which is common in hot, humid weather when you may sweat more than normal. AVogel Urtica drops can be taken before and during your trip to help ease the symptoms.

Fluid retention is a problem that is experienced in warm weather. Drink plenty of water to keep hydrated. A Vogel Dandelion tincture or supplements that contain dandelion will help with fluid retention.

Mosquitoes seem to love some people and totally avoid others. If you’re prone, there is no point in taking chances. Use Incognito’s AntiMosquito insect repellent to keep the mozzies away. Apply it to your ankles, wrists and behind your knees. According to the manufacturer, Incognito provides 100% protection against all mosquitos. It’s stronger than any Deet based product and is certified as 100% natural. It can be used by all the family including young babies.

Stomach upset, diarrhoea, and stomach cramps can ruin a holiday. If you’re prone to these kind of problems, remember to take some acidophilus with you–this will help relieve these problems.