Varicose eczema is also otherwise known as gravitational or stasis eczema. It is said to be caused by poor blood circulation in your legs. Hence, it is not directly caused by food allergies or any allergens although these may worsen an eczema flareup that is already ongoing. Problems often arise when you do not seek treatment for this condition. Nasty ulcers may start to develop and they are difficult to heal and treat.
The presence of varicose veins often precedes varicose eczema. The veins form when blood does not flow properly to deeper veins from the surface veins. This results in a pressure build up on the surface veins, causing the pooling of blood. However, only some sufferers with varicose veins go on to develop varicose eczema, while others do not. Unfortunately, not much is known why this is the case.
Varicose eczema skin is unsightly, fragile and unhealthy. It is easily broken and can leave you with a nasty sore, known as a varicose ulcer. Without treatment, it is possible that the small sore can grow even bigger and deeper. When this happens, it becomes harder to treat. It is also probable that your ulcer can attract bacteria which will make the eczema even worse than it already is.
This condition usually affects those who are in their middle ages or elderly. However, there is also a chance of developing varicose eczema even if you are younger and in your late teens. You get this condition due to having varicose veins, phlebitis or deep vein thrombosis in the past. It has been found that women are at higher risk of developing varicose eczema due to their hormones, especially in pregnancy.
It is important that you keep your eczema skin moist with an emollient. However, you should select any over the counter emollients carefully. Check the ingredients to find out if you are allergic to any of them before use. It may also be that a cheaper emollient can work better than an expensive one.
Using an emollient two times a day helps. There are even some that you can use in the bathtub that will help to lock in the moisture that chlorinated water usually removes from your body. This is especially true if you use hot water. You should also avoid using bubble bath and soap until your condition has cleared up.
For control of your itchy varicose eczema skin, you may need a prescription from your doctor. Your doctor may prescribe you a short course of topical steroid cream. At the same time, you can also explore your options with some natural treatments to find out if they can work for you. Do discuss a suitable treatment plan with your doctor on the best way forward.
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