Aug
It’s not “just a rash.” Here’s what it’s really like to live with this chronic skin condition.
What thoughts come to mind when envisioning eczema? A crimson rash and parched skin, or maybe a concern predominantly affecting children? Yet, it’s crucial to recognize that eczema extends beyond these surface-level notions, often causing considerable agony and distress. According to data from the National Eczema Association, a staggering 30 million individuals within the United States presently grapple with various manifestations of eczema. The condition encompasses diverse subtypes, rendering a uniform treatment approach impractical. Predominant among them is atopic dermatitis, which tends to emerge among individuals with a genetic predisposition for allergies, linked to an underlying immune response that disrupts the skin’s equilibrium.
Those afflicted by this condition encounter unpredictable flare-ups, occasionally without apparent triggers. While some incidents might be unprovoked, consumption of certain foods, exposure to irritants, or heightened stress levels can escalate the risk. Beyond the hallmark signs of reddened, parched, and pruritic skin, eczema’s impact can transcend mere physical discomfort. It infiltrates sleep patterns, strains relationships, and generates turmoil across various facets of one’s life. Given its prevalence, odds are high that you already know someone dealing with eczema. Herein lies an insight into their daily battles and the messages they yearn to convey.
1. Eczema is not “just a rash”
“I have been navigating an especially challenging eczema flare-up over the past few months. One prevailing misunderstanding about this condition is the notion that it’s merely a ‘simple rash.’ I sense a lack of earnest consideration from others; even my attempts to explore pertinent research often lead to content primarily directed at pediatric cases.”
—Kate, 24, Houston
2. The condition is more than just cosmetic
“During severe episodes or flare-ups, my ability to sleep wanes, and my appetite dissipates entirely… On a physical level, it’s a challenge for others to fathom the extent of the distress. I find myself trembling amidst the summer heat, as my oozing skin fails to retain warmth. The simplest movements are a struggle; each motion threatens to reopen a tender fissure in my skin.”
—Dawn, 31, Los Angeles
3. Dry, itching skin can keep you up at night
“Eczema involves the compromise of the protective and sealing mechanisms of your skin. Those familiar with allergic reactions might recognize the feeling of the rash, while those who’ve come into contact with poison ivy can relate to the sensations of eczema. Additionally, due to the compromised skin barrier’s inability to retain moisture, the struggle against dry and itchy skin becomes incessant. The discomfort arising from itching and parched skin often results in disrupted sleep, as the subconscious urge to scratch persists throughout the night.”
—Phil
4. Bad eczema has nothing to do with poor hygiene
“Prior to receiving my diagnosis, I was unaware of the intricate and diverse nature of eczema as a medical condition. Equally unfamiliar was the formidable challenge it poses in terms of treatment, often leaving healthcare practitioners at an impasse. Severe instances of eczema are not merely a result of inadequate hygiene or skincare practices; their origins are rooted in multifaceted factors, necessitating correspondingly intricate remedies.”
—Dawn
5. Since eczema is so hard to treat and individualized, suggestions do not help
“If you’re someone attempting to provide advice to an individual with eczema, please recognize that I’ve invested significant time, effort, and financial resources in managing my condition. I’ve exhaustively researched online resources, consulted various medical professionals, and experimented with a spectrum of both medical and self-made solutions. Recommending a particular lotion brand or proposing a cold shower as a solution can be frustrating. Such suggestions can inadvertently undermine the extensive journey I’ve traversed.”
—Dawn
6. Eczema is an emotional burden
“This ailment is chronic, and apart from the outward distress, it exerts a toll on both mental and physical well-being. I’ve encountered numerous expressions of worry and overheard remarks from peers at school and colleagues at work; these occurrences do erode my self-esteem on a daily basis. Furthermore, the constant insistence that I should consult a doctor becomes wearisome. On days when my skin is particularly troublesome, I’m acutely aware of it. I genuinely don’t require validation that my external appearance mirrors the inner turmoil I’m grappling with.”
—Phil
7. Eczema is sometimes related to food allergies
“My experience with eczema is intricately linked to my celiac disease and food allergies. A case in point: consuming gluten followed by sun exposure leads to distressing symptoms such as diarrhea, headaches, and a pronounced rash on my arms. In my thirties, my allergist identified my celiac disease, accompanied by a positive diagnosis for several food allergies. Adhering to a regimen that avoids both gluten and other allergenic foods translates to a notable reduction in the frequency of rashes.”
—Janet, 67, Portage, MI
8. People with eczema are diligent about their self-care habits
“I’ve painstakingly identified numerous factors that act as ‘triggers’ for my eczema, and I exert significant effort to steer clear of them. Among these triggers are stress, seasonal and food allergies, excessive weekend alcohol consumption, inadequate hydration, reliance on a diet rich in processed foods, and a deficiency in vitamin D.”
—Phil
9. The condition can really impact your social life and work
“This recent episode of flare-up has resulted in a profound sleep deficit, frequent episodes of panic, and an overall surge in anxiety due to the perpetual strain on my body. Moreover, the eczema has cast a shadow on my social interactions, as I’m hesitant to be seen while my skin is in such a distressed state. Were it not for the fortunate circumstance of being a remote publicist who works from home, I’m uncertain how I could have effectively held onto my job.”
—Kate
10. Most people with severe eczema have tried it all
“I’ve embarked on a comprehensive journey of experimentation: from enveloping my skin in plastic wrap to indulging in oatmeal baths, and even resorting to sleeping in long sleeves and leggings. My commitment extends to exclusively employing ‘all clear’ soaps, shampoos, and detergents, and I’ve even made the conscious decision to eliminate gluten from my diet, just in case. My pursuit of a solution has involved consultations with numerous dermatologists, many of whom merely glanced at me for a fleeting moment before proclaiming, ‘You have eczema,’ and providing ointments that, regrettably, failed to yield any positive results. The list of attempted remedies includes various medications, some of which demonstrated insufficient progress, while others seemingly triggered eczema flare-ups upon discontinuation.”
—Kate
11. Some treatments can may make eczema worse for sensitive individuals
“I contend with eczema primarily affecting my hands and feet. Frequently, my flare-ups can be traced back to dietary choices or allergic reactions to specific ingredients. Notably, my episodes tend to coincide with the consumption of gluten-rich products, particularly rice and pasta. My decision to adopt a vegetarian lifestyle has played a pivotal role in mitigating the frequency of outbreaks. Additionally, exercising caution with topical treatments is imperative, as they often contain steroids or alcohol that can inadvertently exacerbate eczema symptoms.”
—Querida, 34, Quantico, VA
