Eczema in childhood

The pain and constant itching can distress children and disturb their sleep. Severe eczema prevents some children from attending school. It can also affect them psychologically. They often have low self esteem and if they feel self conscious about their appearance, may avoid social situations.

When children are troubled by their eczema you need to develop a daily routine to keep the condition under control. It’s important to apply treatments such as emollients and steroids regularly.

Making some changes around the home will also limit the sources of irritation that trigger your child’s eczema:

• Over-heating is a particular problem, particularly at night. Use cool, light bedding
• Try using 100% cotton bedding and clothing when possible. It can be more comfortable against the skin.
• Experiment with different washing powders/liquids - some make eczema worse.
• If your child has eczema try to avoid pets – contact with fur and feathers can irritate the skin.
• Keep fingernails short and if necessary, us cotton gloves or mittens at night to prevent scratching during sleep.
• Some children are sensitive to the droppings of house-dust mites. Using specialist vacuum cleaners can control these microscopic creatures. Having hard floors and washing bedding frequently at high temperatures can also help.
• Changes to diet may be effective for some children, if food has been identified as a trigger factor. Only do this with advice from your doctor or a dietician.

  You can get more information from The National Eczema Societywebsite or their helpline on 0870 241 3604
  
  

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