15/10/2024
My son suffered with extreme eczema when he was little. Here is what I wish I knew back then.
Eczema can be nuanced and easily misunderstood, and when you layer on top trying to be a mum, the mental load and bad advice can make it a perplexing and harrowing journey. Here is what I wish I knew, with hindsight, and what I would do now with what I have learned.
☘️ I wish I knew eczema is a symptom, not the cause.
Eczema is the body saying, “Hey, I am trying to tell you something; I need help!” It is often linked to underlying issues like food sensitivities, gut imbalances, environmental toxins like mould, chemicals, allergens, and/or parasites. Instead of just treating the skin, look for the root cause and what’s triggering the inflammation. Eczema is a sign that the body needs balance from the inside out.
☘️ I wish I was properly informed about all of the adverse effects of steroid creams.
When you’re a desperate mum, you’ll do anything to stop your child’s suffering. However, steroid creams do not address the root cause and can end up doing more damage than good.
Several studies show the adverse effects of long-term or improper use of steroid creams. Topical corticosteroids can cause skin thinning (atrophy), leading to bruising, tearing, and infections. There's also a risk of steroid addiction (TSA) and Red Skin Syndrome, with severe flare-ups after stopping the cream. Systemic effects like adrenal suppression and growth retardation in children are seen, especially when used on large areas. Long-term use can also increase infection risk due to a weakened skin barrier, and use near the eyes has been linked to glaucoma and cataracts.
☘️ I wish I put us both on probiotics straight after my C-section.
Having a C-section can raise the risk of eczema in children by limiting their early exposure to beneficial bacteria. During vaginal birth, babies are exposed to the mother's microbiome, helping establish a healthy gut and immune system. C-section babies miss this exposure, leading to an altered gut microbiome, which has been linked to a higher risk of eczema and other immune-related conditions.
Studies suggest that gut imbalances can trigger immune dysregulation and inflammation. Additionally, C-sections often involve antibiotics, which can further disrupt the gut microbiome and increase eczema risk, as well as the mother's risk of depression.
☘️ I wish I knew about unfiltered tap water.
Tap water can be a hidden trigger for eczema flare-ups due to the various chemicals and contaminants it often contains. Chlorine, a common disinfectant in tap water, strips the skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry and more prone to irritation.
Additionally, tap water can contain trace amounts of heavy metals like lead and mercury, as well as pesticides and pharmaceuticals. A high-quality water filter can significantly reduce these chemicals by filtering out chlorine, heavy metals, and other harmful substances to create a gentler, more skin-friendly water source, which can be an important step in managing eczema naturally.
☘️ I wish I knew that wearing polyester clothing is like wearing plastic.
Polyester clothing can exacerbate eczema due to its synthetic nature and inability to allow the skin to breathe properly. Unlike natural fibers, polyester traps heat and moisture, creating a warm, humid environment that can irritate sensitive skin and worsen eczema flare-ups.
Additionally, polyester is a petroleum-based fabric, and chemicals used during its production may further aggravate the skin.
☘️ I wish I knew that oregano oil was just as potent as antibiotics for infected skin.
Oregano oil is a valuable natural remedy for skin infections related to inflamed eczema. Its antimicrobial properties, due to compounds like carvacrol and thymol, help combat bacteria and fungi that can worsen eczema flare-ups. When diluted and applied to affected areas, oregano oil promotes healing and reduces inflammation.
Its anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritated skin, providing relief from itching and redness while also helping restore the skin's natural barrier function, often compromised in eczema. Used properly, oregano oil can support skin health and alleviate eczema symptoms without the side effects associated with topical steroids or pharmaceuticals.
☘️ I wish I bought an infrared light panel instead of thousands of creams and potions.
Infrared light therapy is an effective natural treatment for eczema, helping to reduce inflammation and promote healing. By penetrating the skin, infrared light enhances blood circulation, which aids in delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to affected areas. This increased blood flow can help reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with eczema flare-ups.
Additionally, infrared light stimulates collagen production, which supports skin repair and regeneration. The warmth from the therapy also relaxes the skin, alleviating discomfort.
☘️ I wish I stopped seeing a doctor and saw a naturopath sooner.
Doctors are trained to prescribe medication, not look for the root cause. A naturopath can provide valuable support for managing eczema by taking a holistic approach that focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of the condition. They often begin with a comprehensive assessment of the health history, lifestyle, and dietary habits to uncover potential triggers, such as food sensitivities, environmental factors, or stress.
Naturopaths may recommend dietary changes, such as eliminating inflammatory foods or incorporating nutrient-rich options that support skin health. They can also suggest natural remedies, including herbal supplements, essential oils, and topical treatments that help reduce inflammation and soothe irritation.
☘️ I wish I knew it wasn’t my fault.
My baby boy is now an eczema-free, happy 12-year-old, and we eventually made it through.
☘️ Have you experienced eczema with your children? What did you already know from my list, or what would you add?
