Treatment of atopic eczema: medications, corticosteroids and topical, ointments, creams

The treatment of atopic eczema has 4 goals:

1. improving the patient's quality of life
2. restoring the patient's skin barrier
3. long-term control of the disease
4. prevention of secondary infections

Atopic eczema is characterised by alternating symptom-free and flare-up phases. If the following principles are followed, a longer-term improvement in the condition can be achieved.

Successful treatment of atopic eczema is based on 3 key steps:

1. Prevention

In this step, we look for triggers of the disease. After finding them, we try to limit contact with them. Prevention is based on the so-called eczema regimen.

Such measures account for up to half of the success of treatment and have a positive effect on the course of atopic eczema.

2. Control of acute inflammation and itching with topical corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are characterised by their rapid onset of action. They are used in the treatment of atopic eczema mainly for their anti-inflammatory and anti-itching effect.

3. Regular care of dry skin

Skin care should be a daily ritual, even in eczema-free periods. Products are available on the market in the form of creams, ointments and oils.

Emollients soften, lubricate and moisturise the skin. In addition, they protect the skin from adverse external influences. In combination with topical corticosteroids, they accelerate the healing of atopic eczema symptoms.

See also.

What is the treatment of atopic eczema according to the stage of the disease?

1. Initial phase

In the initial phase, mainly topical corticosteroids, creams with cooling effect or compresses are applied to the skin. In this phase, it is not recommended to apply immunomodulators and tars to the skin. Because they can irritate the symptoms of the disease.

2. Transitional phase

In this phase, we gradually stop applying topical corticosteroids. If necessary, we apply zinc paste to the skin, which is used to heal wounds. Emollients are used to lubricate the skin.

In severe cases of atopic eczema, immunomodulators are recommended.

3. Maintenance phase

In the maintenance phase, it is recommended to apply ointment type emollients at night. During the day, creams and lotions. In severe cases, immunomodulators are used daily. Later, 2 times a week.