Atopic Dermatitis, more commonly known as eczema, is a chronic non-contagious, inflammatory skin condition that weakens the skin barrier. Symptoms of eczema include itching, small bumps, flaky or scaly skin, and affected areas may also differ in colour from the surrounding skin. In more severe cases, the skin may bleed, ooze liquid or crust over.
What causes eczema?
Eczema is caused by a combination of genetic, immune system and environmental factors that weaken the skin’s natural barrier function, and can be exacerbated by triggers causing flare-ups or worsening symptoms.
- Genetics: the presence of any atopic disease (eg. hay fever, allergic asthma or conjunctivitis, hives) in one parent increases the risk of a child developing eczema by 1.5x and is increased to 3-5x if either or both parents have eczema [1]. The most well-known genetic factor involves loss-of-function mutations in the FLG gene that codes for filaggrin, a protein that builds and strengthens the outer layer of skin, causing a weakened skin barrier [2].
- Overactive immune system: Inflammatory responses are triggered when minor irritants or allergens come into contact with the skin, leading to chronic redness, swelling and itching.
Common triggers for eczema flare-ups
- The body curving to either side when seen from the front or back
- Uneven or tilted shoulders or waistline
- One shoulder blade looks bigger than the other
- One side of the ribcage is pushing forward
- One side of the back poking out when bending forward
How does TCM view eczema?
TCM focuses on holistic treatment of every individual patient, treating the skin while taking into account other organ system imbalances. Eczema from the TCM perspective, can be caused by several syndromes, each with its own set of symptoms which calls for specific treatment methods.
- Damp-heat: acute onset of red rash, bumps or fluid filled blisters on the skin, intense itching, oozing fluids, can be accompanied by irritability, thirst, dry stools and decreased urination volume. Treatment for this pattern focuses on clearing the heat while draining dampness.
- Spleen deficiency with dampness: rash that “comes and goes”, affected skin appears pale red, thickened skin or scabs could be observed and is commonly accompanied by digestive complaints such as bloating, reduced appetite and/or soft stools. This pattern is treated through strengthening the spleen and digestion to reduce dampness and reduce itch.
- Blood deficiency with wind-dryness: chronic condition wherein the skin is rough, thickened, flaky and scaly with darkened skin tone and can appear with sudden flares of intense itching, especially at night or when the environment is too warm. Treatment consists of nourishing the blood, removing wind and addressing dryness.
These differences in the patterns beneath the diagnosis guides the herbal medication and treatment prescribed for each person. It is also possible for an individual to present with a combination of symptoms from different syndromes, requiring treatment that can address both core issues.
What can TCM do for eczema?
- herbal medications: tailored to fit the individual’s specific pattern and symptoms at the point of consultation
- external herb medications: includes herbal washes, soaks, creams or lotions to be used locally on the affected areas to calm inflammation and reduce itch
- acupuncture: can help to ease itching and support sleep
- diet and lifestyle advice:
TCM can be safely used alongside current medication and treatment when properly advised by your doctor and physician. Speak to a physician to find out how treatment can be tailored to your specific condition.
What else can I do to manage eczema?
- Avoid any known triggers: if flare-ups occur after contact with specific substances or consumption of specific foods, avoid them as much as possible
- Maintain skin moisture: take warm showers instead of hot showers and apply adequate moisturisers throughout the day
- Avoid picking or scratching the affected skin: repeated picking or scratching could cause wounds and introduce infections