Phase 1: Diagnostic and Initial Treatment Plan
At East West Dermatology, our holistic approach to eczema focuses on treating the root cause rather than just the symptoms. In Phase 1 of our treatment plan, we prioritize a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation to fully understand what is happening inside your body that could be contributing to your eczema.
Functional Lab Tests: The GI MAP and Organic Acid Tests (OAT)
The foundation of Phase 1 is the use of functional lab testing, which includes the GI MAP (Gastrointestinal Microbial Assay Plus) and Organic Acid Tests (OAT). These tests are essential because they provide a detailed snapshot of the microbiome—essentially the balance of good and bad bacteria, protozoa, fungi, and yeast living within your digestive system. Here’s why these tests are crucial in understanding and treating eczema:
- Gut-Skin Connection: Research shows that the health of your gut plays a significant role in skin conditions like eczema. Dysbiosis (an imbalance of gut bacteria), yeast overgrowth, and parasites can all trigger or exacerbate eczema symptoms.
- Immune System Impact: Since 70% of your immune system is located in the gut, understanding the microbial environment is key to reducing the inflammation that drives eczema flare-ups.
- Personalized Insights: By identifying which harmful pathogens, bacteria, fungi, or molds are present in your system and in what amounts, we can tailor a treatment plan specific to your unique needs.
These tests are usually reviewed during your first or second visit, and the results form the cornerstone of your treatment plan. The goal is to create a clear picture of your internal environment, allowing us to address any underlying imbalances contributing to your skin issues.
Treatment Focus
Once we have the test results, our Phase 1 treatment will target:
- Pathogenic Removal: Based on your individual GI MAP and OAT results, we will identify and address any harmful organisms that may be contributing to your eczema. This can include bacteria, yeast, mold, or parasites.
- Supplements and Chinese Herbal Medicine: Using the diagnostic findings, we will recommend a personalized combination of functional medicine supplements and Chinese herbal medicine. The treatment is designed not only to eliminate pathogens but also to restore balance to your body’s systems.
- Supplements: Natural supplements such as probiotics, antimicrobial herbs, and digestive enzymes are often used to correct gut imbalances and support the healing process
- Herbal Medicine: Each patient receives a customized herbal formula based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) diagnostic principles. This formula is designed to harmonize and balance internal organs, reduce inflammation, and calm the skin.
Time Frame
Phase 1 generally takes 2-3 months, during which we will monitor progress and make adjustments to your treatment plan as necessary. Our goal is to bring your body back into balance, addressing the root causes of your eczema.
By the end of Phase 1, you should begin to see improvements in both your internal health (through follow-up testing) and your skin condition including reduced skin irritation, reduced itchiness, less frequent itchiness and reduction in dryness and redness on the skin. completing phase 1 sets the stage for deeper healing in the subsequent phases.
