Eczema, also known as Atopic dermatitis is a condition that makes your skin red and itchy. It is a common condition in children but can occur at any age. Eczema is a chronic condition that tends to flare periodically and can be accompanied by asthma or even hay fever. A cure for eczema has not been found yet but there are treatments that can reduce itching and stop new outbreaks like moisturising the skin, using medicated creams or avoiding harsh soaps.
What are the symptoms of eczema?
The symptoms for eczema vary from person to person and not all will face these symptoms but the most common ones are the following:
- Cracked and scaly skin
- Red to brownish patches mainly on the neck, upper chest, hands, feet, ankles, eyelids and at the bends of the elbows and knees
- Swollen skin from scratching
- Severe itching
- Dry skin
- Flaky
- Painful
It commonly occurs from the age of 5 until adolescence and adulthood. For some, it clears over time whereas for others it could take several years to vanish completely.
What are the causes and risks of Eczema?
Food allergies, external factors, irritants and allergens all are the main causes of eczema. The primary risk is having a personal or family history of eczema, allergies, asthma or hay fever. Continuously scratching that breaks the skin can cause sores and cracks. The risk of infection increases because of that. Due to excessive scratching, the sleep cycle can be disturbed. Most children suffering from eczema develop asthma and hay fever by the age of 13.
When Should you see a doctor for eczema?
If your eczema gets worse quickly one should immediately see a doctor or a dermatologist for the following reasons:
- Existing eczema that spreads to new locations
- Itchiness or symptoms that occur while sleeping or daily activities often
- Develop small fluid-filled blisters
- Does not respond to eczema treatment within one week
CBD Oil and Eczema
Cannabidiol (CBD) belongs to the Sativa family and has a chemically active molecule found in them. CBD does not contain psychotic effects that make you ‘high’ like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
There are very few studies of topical CBD in people with eczema. According to a small study conducted in 2019, a few people with atopic dermatitis used CBD ointment twice a day for three months and that helped clear skin and reduced itch and sleep loss. Another study conducted in 2014 found that CBD triggers anti-inflammatory reactions in cells, something that will help ease eczema flare-ups.
The endocannabinoid system is involved in allergic inflammation and researchers suggest that using cannabinoids like CBD may help skin conditions by reducing inflammation and relieving dry skin. Itching and pain can be reduced due to the presence of cannabinoid receptors in the nervous system.
However, one should be cautious when treating eczema with cannabis products as they contain various irritants like terpenes.
What are the benefits of using CBD?
Scientists still need to find more evidence to support these claims but there are studies that show positive effects for the following:
- Moisturising properties
- Reduced inflammation
- Reduced risk of infection
CBD Oil can help with Eczema by moisturizing and hydrating dry skin.
If you are interesting to learn more about CBD Oil and their positive effects, click here
External links
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/hemp-oil-for-skin#hemp-oil-for-skin
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/atopic-dermatitis-eczema/symptoms-causes/syc-20353273