Final answer:
Venous eczema is treated with lifestyle modifications, compression stockings, medication, and sometimes surgery. Corticosteroid creams like hydrocortisone are used for symptom management but do not address the root cause of the condition.
Step-by-step explanation:
Treating venous eczema associated with varicose veins involves a combination of self-care measures and medical treatments. For non-serious cases of varicose veins, conservative treatments include elevating the legs, avoiding prolonged standing or sitting, and using graduated compression stockings. These measures can help alleviate symptoms by improving circulation and preventing blood from pooling in the veins. If varicose veins are more severe, minimally invasive treatments like sclerotherapy, where medicine is injected to shrink the veins, or endovenous thermal ablation, using laser light or radio-frequency energy, may be recommended. In the most serious cases, surgical options like vein stripping or ambulatory phlebectomy might be necessary. Additionally, for the eczema itself, symptoms are usually managed with moisturizers and corticosteroid creams, which can reduce inflammation and relieve itching.
Regarding general skin irritation like Penny's allergic eczema, a topical corticosteroid cream containing hydrocortisone can help reduce inflammation and itching by suppressing the local production of histamine. However, it is essential to note that while corticosteroid creams relieve symptoms, they do not treat the underlying cause of the rash.