Eczema is really an allergy, meaning that there are things that do not agree with the body, and the body’s immune system fights them by releasing a substance called histamine.  Histamine is responsible for the earliest and most important sign of eczema – the itch!

1.  WHAT IS A MAINTENANCE PROGRAMME.?
Your self-help programme should include the following

BATHING

• Use a moisturising soap
• Use natural moisturising bath oils (non-scented)
• Use lukewarm water
• Do not use bubble baths
• Avoid perfumed toiletries
• Avoid taking long baths

CLOTHING

• Cotton is preferable
• Avoid wool and synthetic fabrics
• Wear loose-fitting clothing to reduce friction

MOISTURISING
Get moisture regularly, using an unscented moisturiser. Remember, you cannot over moisturise your skin.

ITCHING

• Keep your nails short
• Keep your skin cool
• Avoid becoming overtired and stressed

2.  MEDICAL HELP
Corticosteroids – oral or applied may help reduce inflammation and itching

Antibiotics – oral or applied
Secondary infections are common and should be treated quickly

Antihistamines – oral or applied

• Reduce itching
• May assist with broken sleep patterns
• Wet Bandaging
• Sterile bandages must be used
• Soothes and reduces itchiness
• Helps to heal lesions

Allergy Testing
A skin prick or blood test performed by a medical practitioner can confirm allergies (e.g. House dust mite, certain grasses, tree pollens, etc.)

Diet
Consult a dietitian for assistance and guidance regarding a suitable diet.

3. COMPLICATIONS
Eczema itself is not infectious. No one can catch it from you. But, as eczema skin often dries, cracks and breaks, it puts the sufferer at a greater risk of contracting skin infections. Medical advice should be sought at the first sign of any infection.

This article was provided in the public interest by Dr. Ayoob Bux, Chairman of Hibiscus Private Hospital and Chairman of the IPA Independent Practitioners Association.  It is presented for your general information and is not a substitute for seeing your own doctor.

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What are the signs and symptoms?

• A cough for longer  than 2 weeks
• Loss of appetite and weight
• Night sweats, even when the weathers cold
• Chest pains
• Tiredness and weakness
• Coughing up blood

How is TB diagnosed?
Any of the above may be an indication of the disease. Saliva is tested for the TB germ.  A chest  X-ray may show TB in the lungs. A skin test done on children can also be an indication. When a person has been diagnosed as suffering from TB, all those who have been in close contact with that person should be examined.  TB testing and treatment is free in South Africa.

Treatment
Medication must be started as soon as possible and it must be taken regularly. It takes 6 months for TB to be cured. Within 2 weeks of starting treatment, the person will no longer spread the disease. If treatment is missed, the risk of a drug resistant strain of TB is possible.  This TB is very difficult to treat and needs more than 18 months of treatment with long hospitalisation.  If medicines are stopped too soon the  disease may  start all over again.

How can TB be prevented?

• Cover your mouth when coughing.
• Immunisation of all babies at a clinic within 1 year of birth.
• Eating balanced meals consisting of food like meat, fish, eggs, beans, brown bread, maize meal, vegetables, and fruits.
• Alcohol should be avoided because it lowers body resistance, and affects the treatment.
• Smoking causes further damage to the lungs and can also cause heart disease and lung cancer.
• Getting some sunshine, fresh air, exercise and living in a clean environment.

This article was supplied by Dr.  A.M. Bux  (General Practitioner)

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