What is Eczema
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis (AD), refers to a group of conditions that can cause the skin to become itchy, inflamed, or have a rash-like appearance. It often begins in childhood and can vary from mild to more noticeable symptoms.
The number of people experiencing eczema has increased from 10 million Americans in the 1970s to over 30 million today. There has been a rise in inflammatory conditions overall in the past 50 years, and functional medicine is exploring ways to understand these trends better.
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Eczema Signs & Symptoms
People with eczema may experience changes in the skin barrier function (the “glue” of your skin). This change can make the skin more sensitive and more prone to dryness.
- Dry skin
- Itchy skin
- Red rashes
- Bumps on the skin
- Scaly, leathery patches of skin
- Crusting skin
- Usually in skin creases, elbows, hands, knees, or face
Eczema Possible Causes
While the exact cause of eczema is not fully understood, researchers recognize that the immune system plays a role. Some individuals may experience eczema alongside food allergies, food sensitivities, digestive health issues, and FLG gene variations.
Food Allergens
Food allergens that cause IgE-mediated responses may contribute to approximately 40% of eczema cases in infants. Many of these individuals may also experience allergic asthma and allergic rhinitis, known as the atopic triad. The common link among these allergic conditions is the tendency for IgE-mediated responses to certain stimuli.
Food Sensitivities
A recent study indicated that children with eczema had higher IgG-mediated reactions to food sensitivities (which differ from food allergies). Dairy, gluten, and eggs were among the most common foods that individuals were reactive to.
Compromised Digestive Health
Many studies suggest that individuals with eczema often experience dysbiosis (an imbalance of gut bacteria). Dysbiosis can be influenced by dietary intake and the gut bacteria received from mothers during birth.
Babies born vaginally receive most of their gut bacteria from their mother, which can vary based on the mother's gut health. Cesarean-born babies may have more gut bacteria associated with the hospital environment.
Infancy is a common time for eczema to appear, possibly due to gut dysbiosis patterns passed down from birth.
FLG Gene Mutation
The FLG gene is responsible for producing cells that form the outermost layer of skin (the epidermis). While everyone has this gene, approximately 70% of individuals with eczema have a variation in the FLG gene.
Functional Medicine aims to explore underlying factors rather than focusing solely on symptom management.
Functional Medicine Labs to Explore for Eczema
There are no current, reliable lab biomarkers to definitively diagnose and differentiate atopic dermatitis (eczema) from other similar skin conditions. However, some practitioners may explore IgE levels.
Comprehensive stool tests, food allergy (IgE), and food sensitivity (IgG) testing are often considered when evaluating eczema.
Comprehensive Stool Tests
A comprehensive stool test can provide insights into gut bacteria balance, inflammatory markers, and zonulin (a biomarker related to gut health). Some studies suggest that supporting gut barrier function may also support skin health.
Food Allergy Test
A food allergy test can identify IgE-mediated responses to foods. Identifying these foods may help individuals make informed dietary choices.
Food Sensitivity Test
Food sensitivity tests can detect IgG-mediated responses to foods that may be contributing to inflammation. Individuals can explore dietary adjustments based on these findings.
Functional Medicine Approaches for Eczema
Nutrition
A diet focusing on whole foods and reducing potential inflammatory foods may support overall health. Some individuals choose to explore reducing dairy, gluten, and eggs, and increasing fiber-rich foods to support gut health.
Supplements
- L-Glutamine and Collagen are often explored for their potential to support gut health.
- Vitamin D and Curcumin are studied for their potential to support the body's natural inflammatory response.
- High-quality probiotics may help support a balanced gut microbiome. The probiotic strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus has been studied for its potential benefits in supporting skin health in certain populations.
Herbs
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda consider various aspects of the body when exploring health management.
Herbs used for skin support may focus on overall wellness and specific symptoms.
In cases of red, itchy, dry skin, herbs that support the body's natural cooling and soothing processes may be considered.
For oozing skin, herbs that support the body's natural drying processes may be explored.
Some practitioners may also suggest topical herbs to support skin moisture and comfort.
Phototherapy
Phototherapy is sometimes used alongside other approaches to support skin health.
UVB and UVA light have been studied for their potential to support the body's natural healing processes and skin health.
Topical Treatments
- Keeping skin moisturized with products containing ceramide may support the skin's natural barrier.
- Oatmeal Baths. Colloidal oatmeal may help soothe and protect the skin.
- Using mild soaps and products free of perfumes, dyes, and alcohol may support skin comfort.
Summary
Understanding how the body functions can help individuals explore ways to support their health.
Eczema has become more common over the past 50 years, and gut health may play a role. Genetics and the transfer of gut bacteria during birth are also factors to consider.
Exploring ways to support gut health and manage IgE and IgG responses may help some individuals manage their eczema symptoms. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your health routine.
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