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Eczema

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What is eczema?

Eczema is a common skin condition that can cause redness, itching and irritation. It is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that can affect both adults and children.

Symptoms

The symptoms of eczema can vary depending on the person and the severity of the condition. Common signs of eczema include:

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  • Dry, irritated skin

  • Red, dry patches

  • Flakes of skin that peel off

  • Intense itching

  • Cracks or scabs on the skin

  • Fluid-filled blisters that can burst and ooze

  • Thick, hard skin

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These symptoms can occur on any part of the body, but appear more frequently on the hands, arms, legs and face.

Causes

Although the exact cause of eczema is difficult to pinpoint, it is known that genetic and environmental factors can cause it. If you have a parent who has had eczema, your chances of developing the condition are higher.

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Several factors can also irritate the skin and trigger eczema symptoms. Avoid contact with wool or synthetic fibers, products such as soaps, perfumes or scented skin products, chlorinated pool water or salt water from the sea. Atopic diseases such as asthma, seasonal and food allergies, certain laundry detergents, low humidity, heavy sweating, hot water, high stress and smoking are other factors that can aggravate the situation.

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Treatments

​Treatment for eczema is aimed at relieving symptoms and reducing the inflammation of the skin. It varies depending on the severity of the condition and individual response to treatment.

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Treatment options may include:

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  • Moisturizing creams to keep the skin hydrated and prevent rashes 

  • Corticosteroid creams* to reduce inflammation and itching 

  • Antihistamines to relieve itching and reduce allergic reactions 

  • Antibiotics to treat bacterial skin infections caused by scratching the skin

How can I prevent eczema?

To reduce the risk of eczema flare-ups, it is recommended to:

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  • Drink plenty of water

  • Use a gentle body wash (one that does not dry or irritate the skin)

  • Use a skin moisturizer

  • Avoid body creams with an oily base

  • Avoiding irritating fabrics and known eczema triggers to help prevent flare-ups

I want a prescription

If you've had a prescription for this condition in the last 5 years

Our affiliated pharmacists may be able to help. Register online, then request a prescription through the Medzy platform. One of our affiliate pharmacists will take the time to review your request in a consultation, answer your questions and agree on the best treatment for you to ensure your safety and best outcomes.

If you have never had a prescription for eczema or if your last prescription was 5 years ago or more

You should make an appointment with a doctor. 

* Non-exhaustive list: Desonide Hydrocortisone (Hyderm®, Cortate®) Aristocort® Elocom®

Medications: All medications and natural health products can interact with other medications or cause serious side effects. Carefully read the instructions, warnings, and pamphlets provided by the manufacturer, and talk to your pharmacist before buying any medication or natural health product. Always keep medications and natural health products out of the reach of children.

 

Pharmacy practice: The medications and pharmaceutical services featured on medzy.ca are provided exclusively by the pharmacists at Pharmacie Sonia Boutin inc. affiliated with Medzy. In providing related services, they are acting exclusively on behalf of Pharmacie Sonia Boutin inc. Certain conditions may apply; speak to your pharmacist.

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