Heat and sweat threaten eczema flare-ups this Australian summer

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 31 Oct, 21:50 · Archive

Millions of Australians with eczema face worsening symptoms as another scorching summer approaches. Heat and sweat threaten to trigger painful flare-ups for many sufferers, with forecasters predicting record-breaking temperatures linked to a 'super El Niño'.

For some, eczema severely disrupts daily life. Paige Mills, a 21-year-old Sydney university student, has had the condition since infancy but experienced a dramatic deterioration at age 19 following stress from finishing school and a bout of H. pylori infection. Severe rashes now spread across her face and body, leaving her scratching through the night and exhausted during the day. She avoids being photographed when travelling, wears long sleeves and leggings even in 30C heat to hide her skin, and has given up her dog after discovering an allergy aggravating the condition.

Managing eczema consumes much of Mills's time and money. She spends heavily on moisturisers, zinc creams, allergy treatments and air purifiers. The condition has robbed her of sleep, confidence and an entire university semester. Even basic activities like showering cause problems, as lukewarm water irritates her skin and requires extended moisturising routines. Mills says of the coming heat: 'I am dreading the heat.'

How it is being reported

• Hot summer threatens to inflame eczema miseryMillions of Australians live with eczema but as another scorching summer looms, heat and sweat threaten to trigger painful flare-ups for many sufferers.The West Australian · 31 Oct, 21:31
• Hot summer threatens to inflame eczema miseryMillions of Australians live with eczema but as another scorching summer looms, heat and sweat threaten to trigger painful flare-ups for many sufferers.Perth Now · 31 Oct, 21:31

In this story: Paige Mills · Sydney · Australia

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