Eczema Treatment

How is Eczema Diagnosed?

A dermatologist usually diagnoses eczema by examining the skin and reviewing your symptoms and medical history. The doctor may ask about the duration of symptoms, family history of eczema, asthma or allergies, possible triggers and previous treatments.

In most cases, additional tests are not required. Patch testing and a course of cyclosporine may be recommended if allergic contact dermatitis is suspected. Blood tests or skin swabs may be performed to rule out infections or other skin conditions when necessary.

How is Eczema Treated Based on Severity?

The table below outlines the recommended treatment approach for eczema based on disease severity:

Types of Eczema and Their Treatment

Depending on the type and severity, eczema treatment may vary. Treatment for various types of eczema is outlined below:

Topical Treatments for Eczema

For mild to moderate eczema, doctors usually prescribe medicines that are applied directly to the affected skin. Some topical treatments for eczema include:

Other Treatments for Eczema

For moderate to severe eczema that does not respond adequately to topical treatment, doctors may recommend additional therapies like phototherapy (light therapy), biologic therapy, wet wrap therapy, or treatments for skin infections. Let us look at these treatments for eczema in detail below:

• Phototherapy: Uses controlled ultraviolet (UV) light to help reduce inflammation and itching.

• Biologic medicines: Work by targeting certain parts of the immune system involved in eczema. They may be used if your atopic eczema does not improve with standard treatments.

• Wet wrap therapy: Involves putting on moisturisers and topical medicines, then covering the skin with damp bandages to boost hydration and help manage severe flare-ups.

• Antibiotics/Antiviral medicines: People with eczema are more likely to get bacterial or viral skin infections. Antibiotics or antiviral medicines may be needed if an infection occurs.

Oral Medications for Eczema Treatment

Doctors may prescribe oral medicines if moderate to severe eczema does not get better with creams or ointments. These medicines need to be taken under a doctor’s supervision and can include:

• Cyclosporine: Suppresses immune activity and helps control severe eczema.

• Methotrexate: Reduces inflammation and may be prescribed for chronic severe eczema.

• Azathioprine: May be recommended for severe eczema.

• Mycophenolate Mofetil: Used for patients who do not respond to other systemic medicines.

• Upadacitinib: An oral JAK inhibitor used for moderate to severe atopic eczema.

• Abrocitinib: Another oral JAK inhibitor approved for moderate to severe eczema.

Note: You should always take oral medicines for eczema only on the recommendation of your doctor or a dermatologist.

Ayurvedic and Alternative Treatments for Eczema

Some people may explore Ayurvedic or complementary therapies to help manage eczema symptoms. These options should support, rather than replace, treatment recommended by a dermatologist. Some of these options include:

• Panchakarma therapy: Panchakarma therapy may include treatments such as Abhyanga, a type of oil massage.

• Neem: Traditionally used in Ayurveda to support skin health.

• Aloe vera gel: May help soothe dry and irritated skin.

• Coconut oil: Can help keep your skin hydrated and may reduce dryness.

• Oatmeal baths: Taking a bath with oatmeal may help soothe itching and irritation.

• Turmeric: It has long been used for its anti-inflammatory benefits.

• Yoga and meditation: Practising yoga and meditation may lower stress, which can sometimes trigger eczema flare-ups.

Note: Alternative treatments should be used after consulting with a trained professional and a qualified medical practitioner.

Home Care for Managing Eczema

Simple skincare measures can support eczema treatment and help manage dryness, itching and flare-ups. Some home care tips include:

• Apply moisturiser to your skin often, especially right after you bathe.

• When you bathe, choose lukewarm water instead of hot water.

• Choose gentle soaps and skincare products without added fragrances.

• Try not to scratch or rub the affected areas.

• Wear clothing made from soft, breathable cotton.

• Keep your fingernails short and neatly trimmed.

• Try to find out what triggers your eczema and avoid those things when you can.

• Stick to your prescribed treatment plan, even if your symptoms start to get better.

Latest Treatment for Eczema in India

Recent eczema treatments focus on the immune pathways that cause skin inflammation. Biologic medicines like dupilumab and tralokinumab, and the itch-targeting nemolizumab (Nemluvio) are now more common for moderate to severe atopic dermatitis.

Oral or topical JAK inhibitors, such as ruxolitinib and delgocitinib, offer more options for people who do not get enough relief from standard treatments. Doctors prescribe these advanced treatments only to those who are suitable under specialist care.

How Long Does Eczema Treatment Take?

Treatment duration varies depending on the eczema type, severity and response to therapy. Here is a table listing roughly how much time each treatment requires:

Eczema Treatment Side Effects

Most eczema treatments can be used safely when prescribed and monitored appropriately. However, some treatments may cause side effects, including:

• Headache

• Skin thinning

• Burning or stinging sensation

• Dry skin

• Insomnia

• Increased risk of skin infections

• Increased risk of infections with immunosuppressants

• Injection-site reactions

• Acne-like eruptions

• Changes in liver or kidney function

• Changes in blood counts

Lifestyle Changes for Managing Eczema

The following healthy lifestyle habits may help manage eczema and reduce flare-ups:

• Moisturise the skin daily.

• Avoid known triggers.

• Use fragrance-free skincare products.

• Wear soft cotton clothing.

• Keep the skin cool and hydrated.

• Exercise regularly.

• Manage stress using relaxation techniques.

• Get adequate sleep.

• Follow prescribed medicines consistently.

Triggers That Can Worsen Eczema Symptoms

Some key triggers of eczema to avoid or manage include:

• Hot weather and sweating

• Dry skin

• Food allergies

• Harsh soaps and detergents

• Fragrances and cosmetics

• Dust mites

• Pet dander

• Pollen

• Cold, dry weather

• Emotional stress

• Skin infections

• Wool and rough fabrics

Eczema Treatment Cost

Eczema treatment costs in India vary depending on the severity of the condition, treatment type, city and hospital. Regular dermatologist consultations may cost around ₹1,500 to ₹6,000 per visit. Topical medicines may cost ₹200 to ₹1,500 per month. Phototherapy may cost up to ₹32,000. A cyclosporine course may cost ₹2,500 to ₹6,000 per month, while biologic therapies may cost ₹2.5 lakh to ₹4 lakh or more per month, depending on the medicine prescribed.

Does Health Insurance Cover Eczema Treatment in India?

Yes. Health insurance plans cover treatment for eczema when it is medically necessary. Outpatient costs like dermatologist consultation costs, diagnostic tests, and topical medications are covered only if you have an OPD cover. Although hospitalisation due to eczema is rare, medical coverage is available for in-patient expenses, including room rent and ICU charges, in case of any complications. The exact coverage may depend on the policy terms and conditions.

A waiting period may apply before you can claim the treatment cost of eczema. Besides, if eczema is a pre-existing disease (PED), a waiting period of up to 3 years will apply before you can file a claim.

It is best to choose a health insurance plan with a sum insured of at least ₹10 lakh to cover long-term and advanced eczema treatments.