07/20/2023
HEALTH HIGHLIGHTS: ECZEMA
(aka Pathology Post)
Eczema affects 16.5 million adults in the United States. I happen to be one of them.
WHAT IS IT?!-
It is an form of atopic dermatitis that causes skin inflammation. Symptoms include burning, itching, blisters, dryness, and cracking.
IS IT CONTAGIOUS?!
No. Absolutely not. It is genetic.
IS IT SERIOUS?!
No. It is a nuisance, though.
HOW DOES THIS AFFECT MY WORK?
When I have flare ups my skin will not be intact and must be sealed or allowed to heal before I resume massage. If the affected area is small enough, I can wear finger cots. If large areas of my hands are affected I am forced to reschedule appointments as most clients do not care for the use of gloves. Wearing gloves also seems to worsen or prolong the flare up. My skin is much happier, and heals faster, when it can breathe.
WHAT CAUSES FLARE-UPS?
Allergies, stress, external irritants, homones, climate...
HOW DO I KNOW MY SKIN IS READY TO DO MASSAGE?
I check to ensure my skin is intact by coating my skin in sanitizer gel. If it burns, the skin is not intact and must be sealed or healed.
SO WHY DO MASSAGE?
I have always been called to healthcare. Eczema is minor annoyance that must be managed like any other health concern. Most of the time it isn't a problem. While it may occasionally get in my way; I don't let it stop me from doing what I want to do.