rash

19 August 2013

skin problems and living with eczema
I have to confess that I am struggling for product reviews at the moment. I’m suffering from random rashes and eczema breakouts and it is making testing products a struggle because I have to be so careful. This is the reality of my life. Just when I am lulled into a false sense of security and preaching to the internet, then this happens.

It is always frustrating trying to pin point what triggered the latest eczema breakout. My skin is not my friend at the moment and it is driving me around the bend. Random rashes are make me feel less confident in my skin and do not make me feel sexy. People often compliment my skin but this is what is lurking under my clothes. Luckily this time my eczema is not causing me too much trouble in terms of pain or irritation.

I'm often asking myself why does my body hate me so much? why can’t I just be normal? I am not going to lie, at this moment in time I absolutely hate my eczema and allergies. How do I deal with it? I have a moan about it and then take positive steps to manage it.

Anyone else struggling with their sensitive skin and eczema? Lets all have a cry about it together and I'm sending out virtual hugs to you.

Sarah x

Update: this flare up on my shoulder pictured above was later diagnosed as Urticaria

14 November 2011

My Allergies and Eczema Triggers
I thought it might be of interest to my readers to share a list of my allergens, intolerances and eczema triggers.  Some of these are medically diagnosed using skin tests at hospital but others are self diagnosed.  My symptoms are varied - eczema, rash/hives, itchy throat, sinus problems (blocked nose & glue ear) vomiting, diarrhoea, sweating, stomach pains, mild asthma, swollen joints.  I may suffer just one of these or a combination.  

Foods
Milk, Eggs, OAS to fruits (orange, strawberry, melon, kiwi, pineapple)

Medicines
Penicillin, Ibuprofen

General Living
Wool, Cats, Dogs, Feathers, Dust, Pollen (grass & birch tree), Laundry Detergents, Air Fresheners, Perfume, Washing Up liquid, Soaps, Bubble baths, Lanolin, sun creams, shaving gels - there are many personal care brands that I can't touch - Fairy Washing Up Liquid, Comfort, Lenor, Johnson & Johnson, Nivea, Dove, Balsam Tissues, Radox, Simple, Imperial Leather. I have hayfever and also can't let my skin come in contact with freshly cut grass as it brings me out in hives. If I peel a vegetable without wearing rubber gloves my hands flare up with a rash and I experience this with potatoes.

Difference between Allergy & Intolerance
As far as I understand the difference is an allergy is connected to how your immune system responds to a substance where as an intolerance is to do with digestion.  It is complex hence why the two are often confused.  Follow this link if you would like to learn more www.allergyuk.org

Handy Tips to reduce Allergens
  • When dusting use a damp cloth that way dust does not fly around the room making you sneeze. 
  • Invest in a good vacuum cleaner there are ones with specialist filters to reduce allergens. 
  • If you have eczema on your body wash your hair over the bath or sink so that the shampoo does not wash over your skin. Your body wash may not cause you irritations but a shampoo/conditioner could be the cause. 
  • When bathing try to keep the water temperature moderate otherwise if it is too hot it does you no favours and dries out your skin. 
  • Always use rubber gloves or disposable gloves (latex free) when washing up or cleaning your home. 
  • Regularly vacuum the mattress. You can also buy special allergy covers for pillows and mattress. 
  • Make sure you remove mould from bathrooms or curtains or anywhere else in your home.
Sarah x

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