Skin rashes and burns
Eczema is the most common skin rash. It is characteresed by itching,
redness, and scaling of the skin. In severe cases excoriation
and bleeding occurs. When a cause is evident, such as with a chemical
or grass allergy, the same condition is known as dermatitis. Although
eczema has no single obvious cause, I is more common in situations
of emotional stress, drug or alcohol withdrawal, or with general
desease. Eczema is commonly seen in the homeless.
Treatment |
Condition |
| Sorbolene,
Peanut oil, Emulsifying ointment, Vaseline® | General creams or ointments for mild eczema. Apply frequently (every one to two hours). These are available without prescription. An overlying bandage may assist in severe cases. |
| Celestone®, Betnovate®, Aristocort®,
Diprosone® | Various steroid creams, for more severe eczema or for dermatitis. The stronger creams come in smaller tubes. Long term use may lead to skin damage. Antihistamines or the 'Pams' may be used to control itch. |
| Benzemul®,
Ascabiol® | Pesticidal lotions for treatment of the lice infestation scabies. |
| SSD® | A prescription-only burn cream. Reapply daily with gauze and a crepe bandage. |