If you are trying to treat eczema without the use of prescriptions due to wanting to use a natural approach or avoid cortisone or steroids, there are some ways you can reduce the itching, inflammation and red rash patches.

1) Taking a bath is soothing and I've found oatmeal reduces itching and the red inflammation. You can buy this in the medicated soap sections of drug stores or just put your own in a mesh bag and let it soak. Use luke warm water and not hot water as this can increase itching, redness and bumps.

2) Avoid sweating by wearing clothing made with cotton, reducing time outdoors, taking a water spritzer with you during summer months and spraying your body and keeping the home at a comfortable temperature. Taking walks may be better at this time of your life rather than an exercise program that will increase your perspiration. If you do use aerobic exercise, be sure to shower afterward using a mild, sensitive skin soap in warm water.

3) Take omega 3 oils to reduce itching and inflammation including flax seed oil and borage oil. Be aware of the foods you may react to with a rash reaction by keeping a food diary and connecting this to any eczema symptoms you may have. The Center for Disease Control has recently released a study about common foods that cause allergic reactions including itchy rashes.

4) Be careful about possible allergens including nickel products, dust mites, paints, new rug reactions and sensitivities to formaldehyde, bacteria and funguses.

5) Moisturize and use antihistamines to reduce the itching. Bring moisturizer with you to work or school and apply it a couple of times during the day. There are non-drowsy antihistamines that work best for day hours and can be used to relieve itching from eczema when you are at the job or taking classes.

Remember that stress plays a part in itching and skin inflammation so incorporate some relaxation daily into your schedule. Think of this as a requirement for your health.