Dr. Gott:: Several options available for relieving eczema

Dear Dr. Gott: I’ve had a really bad time for years with an itch problem. It’s only on my arms. They say it’s eczema, but I have no red bumps, no sores, no nothing! Just itching.

I have tried everything I can think of. I have been to so many doctors that I have lost track of them.

If you can, please help me! Thank you.

Dear Reader: From your brief note, I agree with your diagnosis.

Eczema is not a rash that itches; rather, it is an itch that “rashes.” This means that the more you scratch the itch, the more likely you are to develop a rash.

The itch develops because of patches of dry skin that appear no different than the surrounding, unaffected skin.

Many people with eczema find relief by using over-the-counter creams and lotions, such as Eucerin. The cream is applied every day.

If this approach fails to relive the itching, ask your dermatologist for a prescription of hydrocortisone cream. This medication is applied after the daily cream/lotion and only to the areas with the most intense itching.

Ask your dermatologist about this. He or she may have new information or medications available for the treatment of eczema.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my health report “Eczema and Psoriasis.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.