Eczema and Dermatitis

Eczema is a skin condition that causes the skin to become hard, itchy, and cracked. It is the most common skin condition in the UK, which often starts in childhood, but can be known to develop in adult years as well. The National Eczema Association in the US also estimate that around 10% of the population suffer from Eczema.  The NHS observe that it is a lifelong condition for many, yet it has the potential to clear up completely over time, or at least improve over the course of an individuals life.

Similarly, the NHS observe that Contact Dermatitis is a form of eczema that often occurs when triggered by an outside substance, such as cleaning materials or an insect bite. This condition is more treatable than Eczema as it is easier to identify the trigger for the condition. Allergy UK observe that children can develop eczema through food allergies, although this is not common.

The British Skin Foundation clarify that Contact Dermatitis is triggered by outside factors, whilst Eczema is often developed in childhood, although it can sometimes be inherited.

Types of Eczema

Healthline observes the 7 types of Eczema a person can be diagnosed with:

  1. Atopic Dermatitis – The most common form, which creates dry, itchy, and red patches across the skin. Rashes form in the creases of your body (elbows and knees) and you may leak fluid if you scratch the affected area.
  2. Contact Dermatitis – This is a rash caused by a reaction to substances you come into contact with. This can develop in the forms of burns, blisters, hives, or leathery skin. This can be an allergic reaction to items such as metals, paints, plants, skincare products, soaps, and detergents.
  3. Dyshidrotic Eczema – Blisters that form on hands and feet. This is more common in women than men. This can also be caused by allergic reactions, or stress.
  4. Hand Eczema – This is eczema that specifically develops on the hands, usually in conditions where you regularly use chemicals which may irritate the skin.
  5. Neurodermatitis – Thick, scaly patches that can develop across your body, including arms, legs, genitals, scalp, or back. These can be extremely itchy, and can bleed and become infected once scratched.
  6. Nummular Eczema – Coin shaped spots on the skin. These become itchy and scaly over time. This is most likely causes by insect bites or allergic reactions.
  7. Stasis Dermatitis – This skin condition occurs when fluid leaks out of weakened veins into your skin. This can cause flare ups, swelling, dry and itchy skin near varicose veins, as well as bodily fatigue.

Treatment by the NHS

A GP will define a patient as having eczema if they have had symptoms (itchy or dry skin, recurring rashes, dry skin in children) for longer than 12 months. Currently there is no cure for eczema. This can make it difficult for daily life as it can impact the mental and physical health of the patient.

However, the GP may prescribe different treatments to ease symptoms. The GP may suggest:

  • Reducing scratching or itching of affected areas
  • Emollients (moisturising treatments) to be used on a daily basis
  • Topical Corticosteroids, aimed to reduce swellings and flare ups

Emollients and Topical Corticosteroids may also be prescribed for Contact Dermatitis. However, avoiding the triggers for Dermatitis is often the most successful ways of reducing symptoms. Dermatitis prevention is also emphasised by the NHS. They recommend wearing protective clothing, avoiding triggering materials, changing products that may irritate the skin, and staying hydrated throughout the day.

 

Treatment outside of the NHS

There are a few options available outside of NHS prescriptions that are recommended by leading UK skincare institutions. Allergy UK recommend over-the-counter skin creams, as well as applying ‘wet-wraps’ to the affected areas to ease irritability and prevent scratching. Calcineurin Inhibitors are also offered as an alternative to steroid creams, which can decrease inflammation and prevent irritation. The National Eczema Society in the UK provide detailed coverage of the different kinds of creams you can use for Eczema, such as Ciclosporin, Dupilumab, and Phototherapy.

PEMF Therapy for Eczema and Dermatitis

There have been a few studies into the healing benefits of Pulsed Electromagnetic Therapy (PEMF) for individuals suffering from Eczema and Dermatitis. PEMF devices, such as SCIO machines, focus on the cells responsible for inflammation. It seeks to improve the oxygen carrying capacity of cells to boost the body’s natural immunity and fight off allergies. It also seeks to encourage hormonal balance for a healthier body and mind.

  1. In a study for Psoriasis (similar symptoms to Eczema and Dermatitis), PEMF therapy was shown to improve 100% of patients with skin conditions on the scalp. 73.7% of males and 75% of females also showed improvement with skin conditions in general bodily areas.
  2. Another study conducted in 2014 sought to evaluate the healing properties of PEMF therapy in relation to promoting wound healing potential. They discovered that PEMF therapy increased the healing potential of the body, especially regarding muscle recovery.
  3. Dermatitis has also been observed to be relieved through Millimetre Waves – a type of PEMF therapy.
  4. A Bioresonance study, conducted over a year, found that 90% of patients observed no symptoms at all or showed significant improvement through PEMF treatment. These symptoms largely focussed on retinal, respiratory, cutaneous, and gastrointestinal issues. This highlights the potential of PEMF therapy encouraging healthy cell regeneration throughout the body.

What We Can Offer

We are able to offer PEMF sessions to help with allergies such as Eczema and Dermatitis. Our clinics in Bristol, Bournemouth, and London are available for sessions.

Our SCIO machines are available for rental use at home. We can also offer therapy at a discounted rate through our Concessions Clinic. You can learn more by clicking HERE. Our SCIO devices come with the essential training needed to set up your own personal healing station.

If you are interested in booking a session with us, please get in contact with our Lead Practitioner, Kasey Phifer, at admin@ncet.co.uk. You can also get in touch with us at 03301 3301 83.

The Energy Space, located at 22 Hatton Garden, London, EC1N 8BA, also offers therapy for skin conditions such as Eczema and Dermatitis. You can get in touch with Sarah at info@theenergyspace.com, or call her on 0208 6168188.

Further References: