When these agents are available, you can discuss with your dermatologist if these treatments are appropriate for you or your child. Since certain indoor allergens and irritants can trigger the symptoms of eczema, there are some general precautions you can take around the house. Proper bathing should be stressed. Even the mildest soaps can irritate affected skin, so avoid contact between soap and the affected skin. Moisturize your skin immediately after bathing.
Dust mites and pet dander are significant indoor triggers.
Change all bed linens, dust your home, and vacuum your carpets frequently to reduce the presence of these allergens. Encasing pillows and mattresses, and removing rugs and drapes will effectively decrease the dust mite count, which not only triggers the itch of some patients, but also delays the patient s period of sensitization to the dust mite - the most common allergic cause of asthma and hay fever later in life. With the heat on and the windows closed, the air inside your house can become very dry in the winter, making the dryness and itching of your skin even worse. Thus, it is important to use a humidifier to keep a reasonable level of moisture in the air. Avoiding these triggers of itch may decrease the need to use anti-inflammatory medications.