Ezema and cold: How to guard yourself

Winter months for many people living with eczema can be particularly difficult, since its changes cause exacerbations of the condition. Although it does not deteriorate in everyone with the first drop in temperature, the onset of symptoms does not take long. Its sudden changes caused by movements from warm indoors to cold air and the opposite are the main risk factor. CORVERSE A study published in Clinical and Experimental Dermatology confirmed this seasonal variation in eczema symptoms in a group of children in the UK, showing that there are indeed increased chances of firing them when the weather is cold, as opposed to summer. Fortunately, there are measures that can be taken to avoid such a development. “This sudden increase in symptoms occurs because the skin barrier is disturbed. Cold conditions that prevail cause skin dehydration, resulting in loss of consistency. In addition to loss of moisture, its inadequate replenishment is either due to occasional application or use unsuitable for the time of moisturizing products, as well as the choice of clothing that causes irritation are the factors that help to exacerbate eczema. The gradual adaptation to the colder atmospheric temperatures, the change in the care routine at the beginning of winter and the choice of fabrics that do not irritate the skin are protective measures to avoid exacerbations,” explains Dermatologist – Aphrodisiologist Dr. Christos Stamos. Eczema is an inflammatory, non-communicative, hereditary and chronic skin disorder affecting children and adolescents and usually persists in adult life. It is observed more frequently in infants or very young children. It often starts in the first year of life and occurs more frequently before the age of 5. The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that 20% of children and infants in the world have eczema. It is not known what causes it, but it appears to be related to the environment, genes and immune system. It is considered an allergic disease, meaning that the body reacts excessively to external irritants. CORVERSE In short, eczema could be described as the dry, exhausting and itchy skin. Lack of consistency makes it more vulnerable to skin infections from bacteria, viruses and fungi. Symptoms can occur at any time, mainly on the hands and feet, arms and back of the knees. The detection of irritations is difficult, as there is differentiation between sufferers. Weather, nutrition, and clothing are frequent reasons for outbreak in winter. But this time does not have to amount to suffering for children and adults. To minimise exacerbations and soothe irritated skin, eczema sufferers may try the following: Temperature retention Patients can reduce exacerbations by avoiding sudden changes in temperature. In order to achieve this objective, skin should be protected from cold when leaving heated spaces, wearing warm clothes, gloves, scarfs and caps. The same applies when entering indoors. Patients should avoid putting their hands on the radiator/air heater immediately or taking a very hot shower once they enter the house. Maintaining moisture Humidity plays an important role in avoiding eczema flares. Heating removes moisture from the air and compensate for this effect is done using a humidifier or putting a bowl of water near a heat source. The same applies to the skin. Its moisturizing with denser texture moisturizing creams and the regular application of generous amounts protects the skin and helps restore it. Elimination of irritants The necessary maintenance of heat in indoors prompts to avoid ventilation. However, this tactic irritates the skin, since dust mites multiply. Also, in winter pets stay in longer hours and hair, known as an irritant, accumulate. Therefore, daily ventilation and cleaning of the house and workplace is required. Correct skin cleansing The frequent washing of hands and the use of disinfectant, established in recent years after the outbreak of pandemic, is harmful to the skin of people with eczema. Therefore patients should intensify their efforts to maintain the skin in good condition. This involves using milder soaps, not containing many chemicals and aromas, and lukewarm water. Selected diet By adopting a diet suitable for people with eczema, chances of outbreaks may be reduced. For example, avoiding milk, eggs and shellfish and joining prebiotics helps. A nutritionist can recommend the appropriate menu, personalizing it in the needs, seasons and allergies that often coexist in people with eczema. Clothing “rules” Choosing very warm clothes to keep the temperature is not the best choice for those who have eczema, as they cause sweating, which is a starting factor of symptoms. Textiles that do not allow the skin to breathe are hard and rough, those that include synthetic fibres such as polyester, nylon and spandex should be avoided. Leather-friendly fabrics of natural materials that are soft, “breathing” and are absorbent, such as cotton, silk and bamboo (and for some merino wool) can warm the body while protecting the skin. ‘Despite these measures it is possible that symptoms may reappear or deteriorate. Adjusting the treatment by the dermatologist can shorten their duration and make them milder and painless. There are local corticosteroids for the most severe oral or biological cases that suppress inflammation and offer relief. Phototherapy either alone or in combination with drugs gives excellent results, in a non-invasive way. It is suitable for children and adults with moderate to severe eczema, but is not used in people with a sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation or photoallergy. Some forms of phototherapy are indicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This treatment works by aiming at hyperactive skin immune response, to reduce these itchy, irritated red or darker spots caused during exacerbations. It is effective, safe and painless, which besides eczema is used to treat other skin diseases, such as psoriasis and vitiligo. Therefore, in winter patients with eczema need not suffer. The knowledge and implementation of preventive measures will protect them from disturbing symptoms,” concludes Dr. Stamos.