Bullous Pemphigoid is a kind of chronic skin disorder connected with the outbreak of tense blisters on the skin surface. The blisters are large and fluid filled that normally appears on the areas that often flex, such as armpits, arms, lower abdomen and legs.
Bullous Pemphigoid happen when your immune system attacks a thin layer of tissue below your outer layer of skin. The cause for this abnormal immune cause is unknown, though it sometimes can be triggered by taking certain medications.
Bullous Pemphigoid Symptoms
The major characteristic of bullous pemphigoid is the appearance of fat blisters that don’t easily rupture when touched. The fluid inside the blisters is usually clear but may contain some blood. The skin approximately the blisters may appear normal, reddish or darker than normal. Various people with bullous pemphigoid grow an eczema or hive like rash rather than blisters.
Acute itching, inflammation, skin rashes, mouth sores and bleeding gums are some of the Symptoms of Bullous Pemphigoid.
Multiple blisters or bullaes appearing with elevation of the skin filled with serous liquid can be found in severe cases. Such bullous pemphigoid blisters generally affect the arms, legs and middle part of the body. Blisters in many people with bullous pemphigoid also grow in the mouth. When blisters break open, they lead to formation of ulcers.
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Bullous Pemphigoid Causes
Although the exact Causes of Bullous Pemphigoid are not well unstated, it is believed these blisters occur because of a malfunction in your immune system. Human immune system release antibodies to fight foreign bodies like viruses, bacteria, etc. For reasons that are not clear, the body may grow an antibody to a exacting tissue in your body.
When these antibodies connect the epidermis and the next layer of skin, these trigger inflammations which create the blisters and itching of bullous pemphigoid.
Bullous Pemphigoid Natural Treatment
Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is a rare autoimmune disorder that causes large, fluid-filled blisters on the skin. It primarily affects older adults and can significantly impact the quality of life due to its painful and persistent symptoms. While traditional treatments such as corticosteroids and immunosuppressive medications are commonly used to manage BP, many patients seek natural remedies to complement medical treatments or reduce side effects. Various Bullous Pemphigoid Natural Treatment that may help in managing bullous pemphigoid.
1. Aloe Vera for Skin Healing and Soothing
Aloe vera is widely recognized for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. When applied topically, aloe vera gel can help reduce itching, irritation, and redness associated with BP. It also accelerates the healing of blisters and wounds, promoting skin regeneration. Aloe vera can be used as a natural remedy in addition to medical treatments, providing symptomatic relief from the discomfort caused by BP.
How to Use:
- Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to the affected areas.
- Leave it on for about 15-20 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.
- Repeat this process 2-3 times a day for relief.
2. Turmeric for Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
Turmeric, particularly its active compound curcumin, is renowned for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies have suggested that curcumin may help modulate the immune system and reduce inflammation, making it a valuable natural remedy for autoimmune conditions like bullous pemphigoid.
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How to Use:
- Mix turmeric powder with honey or coconut oil to form a paste, and apply it gently to the affected areas.
- Alternatively, you can take turmeric supplements (with a physician’s approval) or add turmeric to your diet by incorporating it into teas, curries, and smoothies.
3. Coconut Oil for Skin Moisture and Protection
Coconut oil is another natural remedy that may help in managing BP symptoms. It is rich in medium-chain fatty acids, which provide moisturizing and healing benefits to the skin. Coconut oil also has antimicrobial properties, which can be useful in preventing infections in open blisters or wounds.
How to Use:
- Apply organic, cold-pressed coconut oil to the affected areas once or twice a day to keep the skin hydrated.
- For additional relief, consider adding a few drops of tea tree oil (known for its antimicrobial properties) to the coconut oil.
4. Dietary Changes to Support Immune Health
A healthy diet plays a crucial role in managing autoimmune conditions, including bullous pemphigoid. By reducing inflammation and supporting the immune system, certain foods can help mitigate BP flare-ups. Focus on a diet rich in:
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- Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Antioxidant-rich foods: Berries, leafy greens, and citrus fruits can help protect the skin from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.
- Probiotics: Foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables can help promote gut health and may positively influence the immune system.
Foods to Avoid:
- Processed and sugary foods, which can trigger inflammation and worsen skin conditions.
- Gluten and dairy, which some people with autoimmune conditions find may exacerbate their symptoms.
5. Topical Calendula for Skin Healing
Calendula (marigold) is a herb known for its healing properties, particularly in treating skin conditions. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, which may help with skin irritation, blisters, and healing in individuals with bullous pemphigoid.
How to Use:
- Use calendula ointment or cream and apply it to the affected areas 2-3 times a day.
- Alternatively, make a mild calendula tea and apply it to the skin using a clean cloth.
6. Manuka Honey for Healing and Infection Prevention
Manuka honey is a type of honey known for its powerful antimicrobial properties. It can help prevent infections in open blisters and accelerate the healing process. Additionally, it has soothing properties that can reduce the itching and irritation associated with BP.
How to Use:
- Apply a thin layer of manuka honey to the affected skin areas.
- Cover it with a sterile bandage to prevent it from being wiped away.
- Leave it on for several hours or overnight and rinse gently with lukewarm water.
7. Epsom Salt Baths for Pain Relief and Skin Care
Taking an Epsom salt bath can provide relief from the pain, itching, and discomfort associated with BP. The magnesium in Epsom salts can help reduce inflammation and relax the muscles, while the soothing effect of warm water can ease skin irritation.
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How to Use:
- Add 1-2 cups of Epsom salt to a warm bath.
- Soak for 15-20 minutes, ensuring that the affected areas are submerged.
- Dry off gently with a soft towel and apply a moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated.
8. Essential Oils for Skin Soothing
Certain essential oils, such as lavender, chamomile, and tea tree oil, have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. These oils can be diluted and applied to the skin to soothe irritation and support the healing process.
How to Use:
- Mix a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil or jojoba oil.
- Gently massage the mixture onto the affected areas.
- Be sure to patch-test any essential oil on a small skin area first to check for sensitivities.
Food to Avoid for Bullous Pemphigoid
Foods that Contain Tannins
Tannins can be found in a extensive range of foods as well as beverages. People suffering from the Bullous Pemphigoid should avoid fruits and vegetables like:
- Apples
- Eggplant
- Raspberries
- Bananas
- Cherries
- Blackberries
- Avocadoes
- Pear
- Grape skin
- Mangoes
- Cranberries
- Persimmons
Some of the other general Bullous Pemphigoid foods to be keep away from, because of high tannins content include:
- Arrowroot
- Black walnuts
- Coffee
- Cumin
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Black pepper
- Cocoa seeds
- Certain varieties of tea
- Coriander
- Ginseng
- Soft drinks
- Yucca
- Kola nuts
- Rosemary
- Alcoholic beverages like wine and beer
Foods that contain Isothiocyanates
There are some different vegetables that have isothiocyanates and so cause an occurrence in people with the Bullous Pemphigoid. Given below are various of the foods that are high in isothiocyanates and must avoided:
- Cauliflower
- Broccoli
- Mustard and Mustard oil
- Turnip
- Cabbage
- Winter cress
- Radish and horseradish
- Brussels sprouts
- Seasoned sauces that contain mustard oil for flavoring
Foods that contain Thiols
Those foods that are high in thiols have been known to trigger off an outbreak of Bullous Pemphigoid in people. There are some of the common Bullous Pemphigoid food triggers containing thiols:
- Leeks
- Shallots
- Chives
- Garlic
- Onions
Foods that contain Phenols
Phenols are mostly found in the form of cinnamic acid, in lots of different food items, such as:
- Ice cream
- Beverages
- Baked goods
- Sauces and condiments
- Candy
- Fruit juice
There are some other foods too, that are high in phenols, which include:
- Black pepper
- Potatoes
- Bananas
- Mangoes
- Tomatoes
- Milk and other dairy products
It is also necessary to avoid fried food, oily or greasy food, caffeinated beverages, any form of sugar, alcohol, soft drinks, salty food, hot spices, dairy products, refined food, and so on.
Lifestyle and Home Remedies
If you have bullous pemphigoid, you can help and get rid of your situation with the following self-care strategy variety of Herbal Treatment for Bullous Pemphigoid can also be very effective.
Keep Your Diet Better
If bullous pemphigoid blisters grow in your mouth, stay away from eating hard and chewable food. Do not eat food like chips, fruits and even veggies as you might feel painful to eat chew and swallow them.
Avoid Sun Exposure
Avoid prolonged sun exposure on every area of the skin affected by bullous pemphigoid.
Avoid Injury
The blisters of bullous pemphigoid and corticosteroid ointment can make your skin weak. If a blister on your skin breaks, cover it with a dry, germ-free dressing to protect it from infection as it heals.
Take Necessary Supplements
Utilization of medicine like oral corticosteroids for more than 30 days can cause problems like osteoporosis. In order to stop such situation, you must discuss with your doctor if you need calcium and vitamin D supplements.