Eczema…the itch that won’t stop!

It’s that time of the year for many and if you know you know! Annoying dry itchy skin that just won’t give up! Read along for some tips and tricks to make your life easier.

What is eczema?

Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is an itchy inflammation of the skin. There are many different kinds of eczema but “atopic dermatitis” is the most common. 

What are the signs and symptoms of eczema?

1. Top symptoms are dry, itchy skin!

2. Tends to flare and come and at times go away completely 

3. Often more noticeable at night. 

Symptoms can very:

1. Babies under one year tend to get rash on cheeks, forehead or scalp. May spread to elbows, knees, and trunk. Rarely appears in diaper area. 

2. Older children usually get rash in inner elbows and behind the knees, neck, inner wrists or ankles. 

But WHY!!!!! 

The exact cause of eczema is unknown! Awful I know. Researchers believe its a combination of genetics and triggers. This is why it often runs in families. Some research shows that people with eczema have a mutation in the gene that makes a proteins called filaggrin. This protein helps our skin maintain a healthy top layer. This strong top layer of skin helps us maintain moisture. Without this strong barrier, bacteria and viruses can enter. This is why people with eczema are more prone to dry skin and skin infections. 

Common triggers: 

1. Dry skin: When your skin gets too dry it can become brittle and scaly which can lead to a flare. MOISTURIZE MOISTURIZE MOISTURIZE!

2. Cold weather

3. Irritants: Think soaps, detergents, perfumes, cleaning supplies, body wash. Some natural liquids too like juice from fruits and vegetables can be irritants too. 

4. Stress

STOP THE ITCH! Things to do at home:

1. Again MOISTURIZE MOISTURIZE MOISTURIZE. Keeping the skin hydrated is the best way to keep eczema at bay. Here are some great choices:

   1. coconut oil

   2. Aveeno products for eczema and soothing hydration

   3. Beautycounter Baby Balm

   4. Babyganics Eczema Care Skin Cream

   5. Earth Mama Organics Baby Face Nose and Cheek Balm

2. Avoid hot showers and baths! This is tough I know, but the hot water can make the itch worse.

3. Avoid fragrance and dyes in your detergents, soaps and other products. (CHECK YOUR LABELS)

4. Food and environmental allergies may also be to blame. Ask your pediatrician if you child should be tested for common allergies.

5. Some cases require management with steroid creams. Talk to your pediatrician or House Calls for Kids Provider to see is this is what your child needs. Prolonged use of steroid cream can lead to white spots on the skin and should not be used for more than two weeks.

Hope this info helps you and your little ones get through this itchy season and clear up the “itch that rashes!”

Jennifer Boyd, PA-C 

House Calls for Kids, LLC