How to manage severe eczema flare-ups in women?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 26-year-old female. I have had eczema since childhood, but over the past year, it has worsened. There are patches on my hands, neck, and eyelids red, itchy, and burning. Creams and antihistamines help temporarily, but then it flares up again. I have noticed that perfumes and hot showers make it worse.

My (IgE) levels came back very high.

Is there some injection treatment for this?
I have seen advertisements for Dupixent (Dupilumab). Does it actually work?

I am tired of people constantly asking if I have allergies.

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understood your concern.

Eczema can have flare-ups, but since this is an autoimmune condition, we cannot completely cure it. We can only aim for symptomatic treatment, which includes the use of moisturisers, intermittent use of steroids, and avoidance of known triggers.

The mainstay of treatment lies in avoiding triggers, if one is aware of them. In your case, hot showers and perfumes seem to aggravate the condition, so these must be avoided specifically.

Antihistamines can be taken for a period of time and then may be stopped intermittently, as per your doctor’s instructions.

I would also like to mention that maintaining a routine lifestyle can help reduce flare-ups. Having a regular sleep schedule, staying well-hydrated, exercising daily, and eating a healthy diet can benefit almost all autoimmune conditions.

There are immunosuppressant drugs available that may be considered in severe cases, but I would strongly advise you not to rely on any advertisements without a clear prescription and guidance from your treating physician.

I understand it can be challenging to deal with constant questions from people, but that should not pressure you into trying incorrect or unprescribed treatments.

Kindly share photos of the affected areas and your current medications so that I can advise you on what changes may be needed and whether any new medicines should be added.

I hope that this answers your query.

Kindly follow up if you have more doubts.

Thank you.