How long should I take medication for eczema?

Medication Duration for Eczema Patients

The duration of medication for eczema patients depends on a combination of factors, including the severity of the condition, individual constitution, and the effectiveness of the medication. In general, mild cases may heal within 1-2 weeks, while severe cases often require at least 3 months or more.

If a patient's symptoms are relatively mild and they are sensitive to the antihistamines prescribed, the medication period will be relatively short, with gradual relief or disappearance within 1-2 weeks. However, if the patient has a large affected skin area or intense itching accompanied by significant exudation, the treatment duration will be extended, approximately 4-6 weeks.

If skin damage does not show significant improvement or even worsens after using glucocorticoid medications, it indicates that the treatment method is ineffective, and alternative treatments should be explored promptly.

In some individuals, inflammatory factors within the body due to autoimmune system abnormalities can trigger allergic reactions leading to eczema. In such cases, traditional Chinese medicines with immunomodulatory effects, such as Compound Glycyrrhizin Tablets and Tripterygium Polyglycosides Capsules, can be prescribed as adjunctive therapy under medical guidance. However, these medications should not be used in large doses or for extended periods to avoid potential liver, kidney damage, and bone marrow suppression.

Eczema patients are advised to keep affected areas clean and dry, avoid scratching and hot water scalding, and maintain a diet rich in light, easily digestible foods like rice porridge and pumpkin porridge. They should limit spicy, oily, and cold foods, consume fresh fruits and vegetables to supplement vitamin C and dietary fiber, quit smoking, limit alcohol consumption, and ensure adequate sleep, all of which contribute to faster recovery.