Eczema
Eczema is a skin condition that may result in dry, inflamed and in severe cases weepy skin. Eczema has no cure but there are ways of managing the severity of the condition. As many as 1 in 4 children develop atopic eczema.
Atopic Eczema is the most common type of eczema; it is mainly found in babies and younger children. Eczema differs greatly from child to child and is most usually found on the backs of the knees, the creases of the elbows and the face. In severe cases some children suffer with eczema covering the whole body and face.
Eczema can cause a child to feel hot and itchy, the temptaion to scratch is great but this may cause bleeding and pain. In sever cases children may suffer with sleepless nights and pain from cracked skin. Visual symptoms are predominantly itchy inflamed skin in under 4s and itchy and dry skin in the over 4s.
Eczema may be diagnosed by a doctor who may be able to give pointers as to why it is occuring. Diet is occasionally pinpointed as a possible inflamtory to eczema. For more information about Eczema and Diet visit Eczema & Diet
The main way to treat Eczema is to keep the skin moist and supple, this will help prevent the skin cracking and becomming painful. The use of Emollients - oily creams and oils for the bath will help to the keep the skin soft. Doctors may prescribe Corticosteroid cream which reduces inflammation and itchiness but beware these should not be used as a routine treatment long-term. If itchiness is keeping your child from sleeping then the Doctor may prescribe an antihistimine.
In most cases eczema will disappear by adolescence but may flare up later in life at times of stress. Eczema is not contagious but be aware that children suffering with eczema may be sucseptible to teasing at school.
NOTE:
The health section of Parenting.co.uk is not to be used as a substitute for your GP; if
your child is ill then seek the advice of a qualified doctor or other health professional
without delay.
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