Eczema

[LakeFlyPie]

DH (50) is prone to atopy; well controlled asthma, seasonal hayfever, allergic to some dogs, horses etc.
Hasn't suffered with eczema since he was a child but over the last couple of years it has flared significantly and is making him miserable.
He thinks that initial flare was caused by starting to swim in chlorinated pool 3-4 x week for a couple of months; he had to stop due to eczema flaring which was brought under control with steroid cream but has never quite gone away. GP has prescribed various emollients / soap alternatives none of which seem to help and some seem to cause more irritation so he stops using them.
He is now trying dietary changes; more fruit and veg, cutting out g highly processed foods as feels the issue is systemic and has read that gut health can have a major impact.
We're now double rinsing his laundry to ensure laundry detergent contact with skin is minimised.
I think he should go back to GP and request a referral to dermatology (or maybe allergy service).
He's quite stoic and uncomplaining but I can see he's uncomfortable and irritated by the itching and soreness 🙁

Any suggestions would be gratefully received.

Check what he is washing himself and clothes with. MI is used in washing liquid and shower gel and many are allergic to it.
What strength steroid? Better to hit it for a couple of days and completely clear it rather than keep on with a lower strength.
The right emollient can help but it needs to be used frequently and liberally.

DD had late teen / early adult onset of atopy - suddenly became allergic to the family cat, started suffering with hayfever etc etc. It culminated in a frighteningly severe flare up of eczema over her whole body. This was all during lockdown, when NHS allergy screening / scratch tests weren't happening. We paid for a private blood test which revealed allergies to birch (and other pollens) and cat dander, which we sort of expected. What we didn't expect was the off the scale allergy to dust mites (possibly kick started by manky Uni mattresses <boak>). The blood test saved a hell of a lot of "trial and error" with laundry products and dietary changes and allowed her to concentrate on environmental changes (protective bedding, diligent housekeeping, laundry routines). If you can afford it, I'd be tempted to head straight for bloods so you at least know whether you are battling environment, diet or both. DD's allergy was beyond miserable and it's now, although not perfect, something she's able to own and control. Good Luck

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