Question: I have eczema on my hands, knees, and feet. I have tried diprolene, which worked for a while, but the eczema eventually came back. Do you recommend any other treatments?
Dr. Hibberd's answer:
Treating eczema effectively means preventing itching, inflammation, and worsening of the condition. Treatment of eczema may involve both lifestyle changes and the use of medications. At home, try to find the cause for your eczema. Avoid hot showers, instead take warm baths. Try to wear loose-fitting cotton garments that minimize sweat and rash.
Many medications are available, corticosteroid creams, like the one you have used along with oral antihistamines are effective. A short course of oral steroid prednisone can help, but has unwanted side-effects. Immunosuppressant drugs have also been used in eczema. Phototherapy has also been beneficial. Finally, two creams have been approved by the U.S. FDA for the treatment of eczema, Protopic, and Elidel.
Your doctor is the best person, though, to advise you, as the best treatment is always based upon an individual's age, overall health status, and the type and severity of the condition.
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