Outline

 

Methods of Treating Eczema

 

I.  Introduction

 

            A.  Definition of eczema

            B.  Background information

                        1.  Number of sufferers

                        2.  No cure – but treatment to reduce discomfort

                        3.  The two distinct methods & their definitions

            C.  Thesis statement

                        1.  Conventional & complementary/alternative treatments

                        2.  Description of each method

                        3.  Illustration of how they function

 

II.  Conventional Methods

 

            A.  Emollients for moisture

                        1.  Ointments – for very dry skin  e.g. petroleum jelly

                        2.  Creams – for milder condition  e.g.  Neutrogena

                        3.  Liquid – as soap substitute   e.g. any soap/perfume free product

            B.  Steroid ointment/cream containing cortisone

                        1.  Calm down flare-ups

                        2.  Used concurrently with antibiotic cream

            C.  Antibiotic cream

                        1.  Against Staphylococcus aureus bacteria

                        2.  Used concurrently with steroid ointment/cream

            D.  Ultra violet light – for very severe cases

 

III.  Complementary/Alternative Methods

 

            A.  Holistic approach – to relieve stress & discomfort

                        1.  Relaxation techniques

                        2.  Homeopathy – herbal treatments

            B.  Natural oils

                        1.  Fish oils  e.g. cod liver – to control eczema

                        2.  Evening primrose oil – soothing

                        3.  Tea-tree oil – antiseptic/antibacterial effect

            C.  Vitamin C & E – healthy skin

            D.  Chinese traditional treatments – to relieve discomfort

                        1.  Acupuncture

                        2.  Herbal/traditional medicine

 

IV.  Conclusion

 

            A.  Summary of main points

            B.  Restatement of thesis