As people age, several conditions can develop, affecting their general well-being. Of these, age-related macular degeneration is common in people over 50. The condition leads to vision problems due to severe degradation of the focal area of the retina, known as the macula. The macula is responsible for focused vision. Macular degeneration affects central vision and the ability to recognize faces, use a computer, or watch television. Here is how one can prevent the condition:  Wear sunglasses Regularly putting on sunglasses while stepping out can help one protect their eyes. Excessive sun exposure for prolonged periods increases the risk of age-related macular degeneration (or AMD). Additionally, looking directly at bright sunlight, even for a short period, can cause permanent damage to the retina. Sunglasses that bear a UV400 protection label are excellent options. Further, one should always wear sunglasses when stepping out to prevent making their eyes vulnerable to vision-related issues. If one spends a lot of time in the sun, they should also wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect the eyes from UV rays. Additionally, as age-related macular degeneration can develop in people who have had excessive exposure to sunlight, one should avoid looking directly at the sun during peak daylight. Those who spend a lot of time using digital devices should consider taking a break every 20 minutes and looking away from the screens to reduce strain on the eyes. It is also important to limit the use of blue-light devices before going to bed to maintain eye health. Add fish to meals Age-related macular degeneration is less common in people who add fish to their meals. This is because fish like sardines, trout, as well as salmon are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. So, foods rich in omega-3s can help reduce inflammation, increasing the risk of AMD.

Atopic dermatitis is a skin disorder that affects nearly 30% of people in the country. This disease causes inflammation in the skin, making it appear dry and itchy. For many people, this chronic condition can seem challenging to manage. However, various home remedies have proven effective in combating this disorder. Keep reading to learn more about some treatments you can use from the comforts of your home to reduce eczema flare-ups. Aloe vera People have used aloe vera for centuries to cure skin conditions like atopic dermatitis. Studies indicate that aloe vera gel has many natural benefits, such as strengthening the immune system and helping heal wounds. Aloe vera’s antibacterial and antimicrobial properties help prevent infections in dry, cracked skin. Opt for natural aloe vera gel instead of over-the-counter alternatives to avoid irritating chemicals. Apple cider vinegar People with skin diseases like atopic dermatitis find relief from their symptoms by trying the ancient remedy of apple cider vinegar. According to experts, apple cider vinegar can help manage this condition by helping the skin restore its acidity levels. Applied directly to the affected area or diluted with water and applied through a cotton pad on your skin, apple cider vinegar can help restore balance to troubled skin and reduce inflammation. Colloidal oatmeal Colloidal oatmeal, also known as Avena Sativa, is made from pulverized and cooked oats to extract healing qualities that soothe skin dryness and irritation. It does this by acting as an anti-inflammatory agent and absorbing moisture to protect the delicate skin. Colloidal oatmeal also has cleansing properties that help clear away excess oils and debris from the affected area without removing the necessary oils needed for healthy skin. Coconut oil Its unique combination of vitamin E and fatty acids can provide hydration while creating a barrier against further irritation and potential infection.

Eczema is a common skin condition in the country. You may find the symptoms challenging to manage and alleviate without proper knowledge. The common symptoms include thick, scaly patches of raised bumps in the affected area. Understanding eczema triggers may help you handle it better. Therefore, consulting a dermatologist regarding your queries may prove beneficial. So, let’s read further about what exactly eczema is and how it can be managed by resorting to natural home remedies. What is Eczema? Eczema is a skin condition causing red, itchy, and long-lasting skin rash. Red patches can appear anywhere on the body during an eczema flare-up, including the feet, hands, ankles, thighs, cheeks, forehead, and neck. As anyone with a skin disease like eczema will attest, the condition is irritating, painful, and itchy. However, if you follow a healthy lifestyle, unpleasant symptoms may typically improve with time. What eczema looks like on different skin tones Eczema symptoms may appear different on different skin tones. For example, lighter skin tones may typically experience inflamed, red, and spotted dark pink patches, termed hyperpigmentation. On the other hand, darker skin tones may experience violet, dark brown, or ashy grey patches. As the skin heals from eczema, it may become lighter, a condition known as hypopigmentation. Which body parts does eczema affect? Did you know that the eczema-affected areas of the body may be different at different ages? Typical locations of eczema in infants and young children include: The face The exterior portion of the elbows Knees Symptoms in older children and adults are visible in the following locations: Fingers and toes Arms The back of the knees Elbow folds Even though you notice eczema symptoms as an adult, you may have had it since you were an infant or young child. This is because most symptoms emerge during the initial years of childhood.

Are you struggling with eczema flare-ups? Do the dry, itchy patches on your skin keep you from living an active lifestyle? Skin diseases and conditions like eczema can be uncomfortable and often embarrassing, but there are ways to manage the symptoms. This article will share some simple strategies for minimizing discomfort and living life to its fullest despite having eczema. Read on to learn more about managing your daily skincare routine and other helpful tips. Common symptoms of eczema Tiny bumps on the skin Dry and scaly skin Itchy rashes Dark under eyes Redness and swollen skin Lifestyle changes that can alleviate eczema symptoms While nothing can eliminate the symptoms of skin diseases like atopic dermatitis (AD) or eczema, they can be alleviated to a certain extent. Dermatologists propose the following simple changes to improve the situation: Take lukewarm showers with mild soaps Short, rapid showers with unscented soaps and moisturizing twice daily immediately after the shower might be enough for mild cases of eczema. Gentle soaps are recommended while taking a bath or washing hands in the kitchen. Use products without alcohol, retinoids, or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA), as they prevent skin dehydration. Additionally, avoid artificial fragrances because they include chemicals that can irritate the skin. Consider taking a disinfecting bath Due to their susceptibility to infections, people with skin diseases like eczema may benefit from bleach baths that mimic those in a chlorinated pool. Add a half cap of bleach to the water once or twice a week and soak for 10 minutes. A cup of vinegar added to a full tub of water may help the bactericidal effect (of killing bacteria) on the skin without causing harm. However, according to the National Eczema Association, anybody with bleach sensitivity or allergic asthma should consult their doctor before doing this.

Around 15-20% of children and 1-3% of adults worldwide suffer from eczema. While this skin disease has no permanent cure, one can manage it and reduce its symptoms significantly to improve their quality of life. One helpful way to control eczema flare-ups is to use supplements like vitamins, probiotics, and minerals. Read on to learn more about this health disorder and the supplements that may aid in managing it better. What is eczema? Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is an inflammatory skin disease that affects millions of people in the country. Its signs and symptoms include red, itchy, inflamed, and sometimes scaly patches on the skin. In most cases, one can manage the disorder with lifestyle changes, such as avoiding triggers like pollen. Stress may also need to be addressed, as it can aggravate eczema. Further, following a proper skincare regimen, including moisturizing regularly and using suitable laundry detergents, can help alleviate the symptoms. Supplements to help manage eczema Consulting a healthcare professional familiar with the condition is a great first step toward mitigating the discomfort caused by eczema. Depending on one’s symptoms, the doctor might recommend suitable lifestyle changes, treatments, and even supplements that could lessen the symptoms of this skin disease and help manage it: Vitamin D When the skin is exposed to the sun, it absorbs vitamin D, sometimes referred to as the sunshine vitamin. Several foods like milk, mushrooms, and orange juice naturally contain vitamin D. Alternate sources are vitamin D supplements. According to certain studies, vitamin D may help treat eczema or related skin diseases. A specific research study indicates that the vitamin may reduce inflammation-related indicators, which may help treat inflammatory disorders and skin diseases like eczema. Vitamin E Many skincare products contain vitamin E, an essential nutrient for the body. A powerful antioxidant, vitamin E can increase collagen levels in the skin, helping reduce the signs of eczema and preventing flares.

Certain habits like constant itching, hot baths, and consuming eczema-triggering foods may worsen skin diseases like eczema. These triggers may vary from individual to individual and case to case. Additionally, wearing synthetic fibers, using deodorants with artificial fragrances, and lack of proper personal hygiene may also worsen eczema and related skin diseases. Read ahead to find out the common types and habits to work on for improvement in eczema symptoms. What is eczema? Eczema is a skin condition that causes dryness, itching, rashes, scaly areas, blisters, and skin infections. It is not contagious and may have several causes. Both hereditary and environmental factors are most likely to be responsible. Though there is no certain cure for a skin disease like eczema, an improved lifestyle may help alleviate symptoms over time. Common types of eczema Atopic dermatitis Atopic dermatitis (AD), the most common type of eczema, causes itchy, recurrent rashes, usually appearing by age five, and symptoms are overly dry skin to itchy rashes. Contact dermatitis Touch or contact dermatitis is an itchy, allergic rash caused by direct contact with a skin-irritating chemical. Cosmetics, artificial fragrances, and jewelry might cause this reaction. Dyshidrotic eczema Dyshidrotic eczema causes a fast rash of small, painful blisters on your palms, fingers, feet, or toes. Neurodermatitis Neurodermatitis causes itching rashes. Scratching makes the skin thick and leathery. Though not life-threatening, the itching can disrupt sleep. Seborrheic eczema Seborrheic eczema is a common, curable, and noncontagious skin condition causing itchy red patches, oily scales, and white or yellow dry/powdery scalp flakes. Stasis dermatitis Venous stasis dermatitis occurs when blood can’t flow freely through the veins, typically in the lower legs. It is a result of moisture and pressure build-up. Nummular eczema Nummular eczema, which causes coin-shaped skin spots, causes itchy, irritated patches which might be crusty or discharge clear fluid.

Are you constantly driven to scratch your skin due to an annoying itch? Do you feel helpless against the urge no matter how much lotion or cream you apply? Itchy skin can be incredibly irritating, but fortunately, it’s also a widespread problem, often associated with skin diseases. In this blog post, we look at some of the most common triggers that cause itchy skin and the steps to minimize them to alleviate the symptoms. Eight common triggers of itchy skin Excessive sun exposure Excessive sun exposure can cause the skin to become itchy and inflamed due to the higher amounts of UV radiation. Those with susceptible skin may find that small doses of sunshine are uncomfortable and lead to breakouts, itching, and a prickly sensation. Not only is this bothersome, but it can also be potentially dangerous since people may be more likely to scratch or rub at the affected area and further damage their skin. Many studies have found cancer patients complaining of itchy skin after radiation therapy using UVR. Hence, the studies conclude that UV rays from sunlight cause itchy skin. Therefore, it is advised to use antihistamines, sunscreens, and emollient creams. To reduce itchy skin from sun exposure, one should use sunscreen with high SPF protection and limit their time outside when possible. Additionally, topical ointments or wipes may temporarily relieve sun-exposed skin irritations or diseases. Age Itchy skin and certain skin diseases like eczema can be annoying and uncomfortable, but it is even more common with age. As you age, your skin undergoes multiple changes, like becoming dry or being impacted by skin diseases like eczema or psoriasis. As we grow older, our bodies produce fewer lipids to retain moisture in our skin, leading to lower hydration levels and causing barrier disruption. In addition, it triggers inflammatory responses like itching or flaking and intense sensitivity.

Eating right and exercising regularly are well-known contributors to a healthy body. However, you must realize that food choices are essential to get the healthy skin they desire. Do you know that certain food items that appear healthy can cause long-term damage to your skin? Consuming sugary treats and fatty oils can significantly impact your skin. Discover which food items from your meal plan need to be replaced with healthy alternatives. Five foods to avoid for healthier skin Excessively sugary drinks and snacks Excessive sugar intake can trigger inflammation, drying the skin and making it dull and wrinkled. The sugar molecules get attached to collagen and elastin fibers of the skin, breaking them down and decreasing elasticity. As a result, the skin no longer looks smooth or feels healthy. Not only does excessive sugar consumption cause premature skin aging, but it also results in skin diseases or conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. The body’s insulin levels increase the growth of bacteria when it digests excess sugars. It, in turn, can cause flare-ups of skin conditions and further damage the skin (dryness, itchiness, and darkening). Moreover, consuming large amounts of sweets (or overeating) leads to an unhealthy BMI, resulting in more wrinkles and saggy skin. You can keep your skin youthful by swapping sugary snacks with healthier binging alternatives, such as nuts, fruits, and seeds (quinoa or legumes). Refined oils (especially canola oil) The primary reason to avoid canola oil (or any refined oil) is excessive trans fats. Trans fats can cause inflammation and weaken your skin, affecting its structural integrity through loss of muscle tone, sagging skin, or causing aging signs (wrinkles, fine lines, etc.) Refined oils like canola oil are easily oxidized due to their high polyunsaturated fatty acid content. When fats are oxidized (due to exposure to heat, light, and oxygen), they form toxic compounds like aldehydes that can accumulate in the body, leading to inflammation and skin diseases like psoriasis.