Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a common inflammatory skin diseases of the epidermis and superficial dermis caused by a variety of internal and external factors.

Shanghai Medicine Clinic has 25 years of clinical experience in the treatment of eczema with traditional Chinese medicine(TCM). Combined with the etiology and pathology of eczema, this article deeply discussed the key issues and the differences between TCM and western medicine and TCM in the treatment of eczema. It is also explained in detail the role of TCM therapy in the treatment of patient with chronic eczema.

What is eczema?

Eczema is a common allergic inflammatory skin disease characterized by multiple rashes, symmetrical distribution, and recurred severe itching. Its etiology and pathogenesis of eczema are mostly related to factors such as mental stress, endocrine disorders, metabolic abnormalities and diet. The clinical manifestations are skin itching, blisters, dryness and crusting.

Eczema can be divided into three types: acute eczema, subacute eczema and chronic eczema. It can occur at any age and in any season, appear on any part of the body, and the duration of the disease varies, and may recurs at any time. The treatment methods used for eczema are different due to different symptoms.

Traditional Chinese Medicine vs Western medicine 

Western medicine treatment of eczema mainly adopts anti-allergic, rash and antipruritic therapies. Generally, hormones are taken orally and ointments are used for external use, in combination with laser therapy, radiotherapy and bioresonance therapy, which can quickly relieve the symptoms of itching.

In TCM, it is believed that eczema is caused by deficiency of the body and spleen, dampness, eating disorders, and damp-heat. Its treatment is mainly based on the whole body, which fundamentally changes the immune function of the body and the method is mainly to remove dampness and relieve itching, supplemented by invigorating and nourishing blood.

Both TCM and Western medicine have their own strengths in the ways of treating eczema. Western medicine can quickly alleviate the symptoms of acute eczema, while TCM takes care of the body from inside, using Chinese herb orally and external therapy of acupuncture and moxibustion, so as to change the patient’s allergic physique, which is of benefit to patients with chronic eczema.

Case analysis

This is an 8-year-old boy who came to the clinic with his mother. At that time, he had severe eczema all over his neck, abdomen, and the outside of his legs, with repeated attacks, which could not be cured. At the time of the attack, small pimples appeared on the skin, accompanied by piercing itching, especially itching at night to make it difficult to fall asleep. Half a year ago, he visited a general practitioner who prescribed him steroid cream. Despite the steroid cream, the condition of rash, itching, and cracking were not improved, and even became worse.

On the recommendation of a friend, his mother found our clinic, and we customized a treatment plan for him. He followed the treatment prescription we designed for him: firstly acupuncture and moxibustion every other day to improve the blood circulation on the part of eczema which was gradually absorbed and reduced, and then wash with Chinese herb once a day to relieve itching, and Chinese herb ointment twice a day to soften eczema and scabs, take Chinese herbs orally to relieve itching and detoxification.

After 2 weeks, the itching of the skin was basically relieved, the plaques of eczema also began to shrink obviously, the appetite was obviously improved, and the complexion was slightly restored. After continuing the treatment for 2 weeks, the skin is no longer itchy, the eczema has basically subsided, and the skin of the eczema is close to normal. After that, he was given oral Chinese medicine for 2 months to enhance his immune function. He has now stopped treatment and has not had another attack for more than two months, so he has basically recovered.

Make the treatment that’s right for you

Although eczema is a skin disorders, it has an extremely impact on the quality of life, especially when it can recur with severe itching, which is even more painful and annoying. From the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine, the key to treating eczema is to “eliminate moisture.” Diet therapy is also one aspect that cannot be ignored. Eczema also has dietary contraindications. We recommend that patients with eczema try not to eat chicken, seafood, and spicy foods to avoid recurrence of eczema.

SHANGHAI Medicine Clinic reminds patients that it is needed to be treated promptly once it develop eczema. There are many treatments for eczema, and both Chinese and Western medicine have their pros and cons. Patients should determine according to their own conditions, and the best treatment is the one that suits for you.

Need help with eczema?

Shanghai Medical Clinic is a leading traditional Chinese medicine clinic in Dubai since establishment in 1997, it provides internal and external treatments such as acupuncture, moxibustion, Tuina massage and Chinese herbal medicine. The clinic uses traditional Chinese medicine orally combined with acupuncture to treat eczema. Based on the fact that each clinical situation is different, we will design individualized treatment plan depending on individual need. If you have any questions, please visit our website or call us at (971)4343 4811.  #TCM #acupuncture #acupuncturedubai #herbalmedicine

                               FAQ

Will the eczema symptoms improve?

Eczema is a chronic condition, and the symptoms can come and go. The symptoms are treatable. Talk to your allergist about topical ointments or creams that can be applied to the skin. You can also help manage your eczema with regular moisturizing after baths and showers, avoiding things that may trigger a flare up (pollen or animal dander, for example), avoiding extremes in humidity levels, using non-perfumed soaps, and wearing loose-fitting, soft cotton clothing.

Is all Eczema the same?

No. Many other types of inflammatory skin conditions are part of the eczema family. One such example is caused by direct contact with substances such as latex, detergents, perfumes, and a host of other allergens and substances to which an individual has developed sensitivities.

Will my child grow up out of Eczema?

Many children find their eczema diminishes, or even disappears, before they start grade school. That said, it’s hard to know which children will outgrow their eczema and which will have symptoms that continue into adulthood. Those who suffered from eczema as a child may always have a tendency toward dry skin. Most people who have eczema that continues into adulthood find methods to cope with their very dry skin, including the use of moisturizers to help control flare-ups.

What about the new eczema medications? Are they safe for children?

There are newly approved treatment options for severe eczema, as well as exciting new treatments under development. Many of these are biologic therapies, which target specific immune pathways. Most are being studied for use in adults or older children, but this is a rapidly changing area. Board-certified allergists will use the most up-to-date information available and will help you determine if new therapies are right for your condition.

Is it possible to develop eczema later in life, as an Adult?

Yes. Although most people associate the development of eczema with childhood, it can also appear for the first time in adulthood. Eczema most commonly presents before the age of 5, but adolescents and adults can also develop this condition. The condition seems to be more common in urban areas and developed countries and affects men and women of all races equally. Either way, eczema is not contagious. You or your child cannot “catch” it from another person, or give it to someone else.