Ice for Eczema Efficacy​

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One of the most troublesome symptoms of eczema is the intense itch that accompanies the inflamed skin. While there are various treatments available to manage eczema, recent research has shed light on the efficacy and positive benefits of using ice and cold compresses to alleviate itchiness associated with eczema and other skin conditions.

 

Cooling for Itch Relief

The use of cooling as a remedy for itch is not a new concept; it has been practiced for centuries to bring relief to various skin irritations, insect bites, stings, and inflammatory skin conditions like poison ivy, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis. The cooling sensation offered by ice, gel packs, cool compresses, or cold water can temporarily alleviate itch in patients affected by these conditions.

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Understanding the Mechanism

Research has indicated that cooling can have a significant impact on nerve excitability and conduction velocity. Cold temperatures can slow down biochemical mechanisms essential for neurotransmission and neuropeptide release, ultimately reducing the sensation of itch. For example, cooling has been found to reduce the activity of TRPV1, an ion channel responsible for exciting pruriceptors downstream of H1 histamine receptors, thus dampening the response of pruriceptors to itch-inducing stimuli (NIH 2019).

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The Role of TRPM8

Menthol, a compound known for its cooling properties, has long been used to alleviate itch and discomfort. A 2019 NIH study has shown that TRPM8, a menthol- and cold-activated ion channel, plays a pivotal role in cooling to relieve itch. This discovery suggests that pharmacologic TRPM8 activation could be further explored as a potential antipruritic strategy, offering new avenues for managing itch in eczema patients.

 

Clinical Evidence

Several clinical experimental studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of topical cooling in reducing or eliminating itch and skin erythema caused by histamine injection into the skin of healthy volunteers. Moreover, individuals with eczema have reported that applying ice packs to the itchy area can bring significant relief, providing a simple and accessible way to manage itch and skin pain associated with the condition.

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In conclusion, cooling through the application of ice and cold compresses is a widely used and effective temporary remedy for itch, bringing much-needed relief to individuals affected by eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions. The cooling sensation works by reducing nerve excitability, ultimately dampening the responses of itch inducing stimuli. For eczema sufferers, incorporating cooling techniques into their management routine can offer a soothing and beneficial way to combat the persistent itch and improve their overall well-being.

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Resources:​

• NIH 2019

• National Eczema Association