10 things you need to know if your child has been diagnosed with eczema

Eczema, is not one specific condition, but rather a general term for a group of skin conditions that causes dry, itchy, scaly and red skin.

It is so common that it affects in 12 adults in this country, and is even more prevalent in children, where as many as 1 in 5 are diagnosed with it. There is no real cure for eczema, but in the vast majority of cases it is manageable. However, the degree to which people suffer varies greatly. While some only have small patches of dry, irritated skin on a very localized area of their face or body, others experience a more severe form. Eczema sufferers can have also long stretches of time where the condition is kept in check, and then suddenly have it flare up again. Here are 10 things to know if your child has eczema: 1. Eczema is not contagious Eczema, while it can appear like a rash, is not a contagious condition. 2. When we speak of eczema, we most often refer to atopic dermatitis This, in short, refers to the skin having a hypersensitivity reactions to something in the environment and causes it to become inflammed. With atopic dermatitis your skin barrier is impaired or weakened, making the skin dry out very quickly, something that makes it vulnerable to infections. 3. It usually presents itself early Atopic eczema usually starts in the first months of life but it may also develop for the first time in adulthood. 4. Symptoms The main symptom of eczema is itching. The redness of the skin is often a result of scratching in response to this itchiness. 5. Phases When eczema flares up, it can present itself in different stages and with more or less severe symptoms. The itch at its worst can be severe enough to interfere with sleep, causing tiredness and irritability, and can in turn this have a big impact on the whole family. Typically it goes through phases of being severe, improvements, and then worse again. 6. Treatment There is no actual cure for eczema, but dry skin can be vastly improved by the use of emollients (medical moisturisers). With this condition, keeping skin hydrated is vital, and these creams are great for moisturising the skin and preventing it from drying out. Many experts identifies that topical emollients need to contain active ingredients to bring immediate and lasting relief to eczema. 7. Fragrance and perfume Eczema can have many triggers, but using scented products, such as soap, detergents, perfume, skin- and haircare products and cosmetics, can lead to irritation. 8. Physical triggers Atopic eczema can be triggered by lots of things - common irritants can be tobacco, chemicals, weather (hot or cold), alcohol, certain foods and materials that feel “itchy,” things like wool. Organic cotton is often the best option when it comes to clothing, especially with children who suffer from eczema. 9. Emotional triggers Emotional stress can sometimes trigger eczema flare-ups, particularly for older and adult sufferers. Learning to reduce stress may lessen the frequency and, hopefully, the intensity of the flare-ups. As well as this, being unwell, for example having a common cold, can also make eczema flare up 10. Everyday skincare With eczema, emollients should be used several times a day, as this will help restore the skin barrier, even when the skin is clear. Avoid using soaps and any types of bubble baths as they can dry out the skin. When applying creams and emollients do not rub in – just let them soak into the skin. Remember that very dry skin needs to be constantly moisturised to protect the skin barrier and prevent further dryness, and a good daily care routine is vital in the management of eczema. If the condition flares up badly, your GP or dermatologist can prescribe a steroid for eczema treatment.