How to Treat a Child With Eczema
For some children, eczema--or atopic dermatitis--is merely a nuisance. For others, it's a painful, lifelong frustration. The main symptom of eczema is rough, rashy skin that may develop into dry patches and oozing sores. Regardless of severity, there are many ways to help manage your child's irritating skin condition and make him more comfortable during flare-ups.
Things You'll Need
- Hypoallergenic soap
- Hypoallergenic detergent
- Hypoallergenic moisturizer
- Hydrocortisone cream
- Omega-3 supplements
Instructions
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Avoid known eczema triggers. If your child has had eczema for awhile, you probably have a good idea about what exacerbates a flare. Eczema often worsens with the use of bubble bath, harsh soaps and scented laundry detergents. Some children may even experience increasing eczema symptoms when they become too hot or when they sweat profusely. Keep your child's eczema at bay by keeping her cool and using hypoallergenic, unscented soaps and detergents.
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Steer clear of hot baths and lengthy showers. While brief, warm bathing sessions can add moisture to the skin, prolonged exposure to hot water has the opposite effect. Encourage your child to take short, lukewarm baths and dry the skin by patting gently instead of rubbing.
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Moisturize your child's skin regularly. Lotions like Cetaphil, Eucerin and Aquaphor create a moisture barrier over the skin, preventing it from drying out and developing new eczema patches. Ask your pediatrician or dermatologist to recommend an effective emollient for your child's skin and apply it several times throughout the day. It's especially important to apply the lotion after bathing to lock in moisture while the pores are still open.
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Have your child tested for allergies. Your doctor may recommend skin testing or blood tests to determine which food and environmental allergies could cause your child to experience rashes and eczema outbreaks. The practitioner will advise you to avoid these allergens and may also recommend that you give your child antihistamines or schedule him for ongoing allergy shots.
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Make sure your child is ingesting adequate amounts of omega-3. This essential fatty acid helps to strengthen the nervous system, lower stress and support healthy skin. Omega-3 is present in salmon, mackerel, flax seed and nuts. Adding these foods to your child's diet may help control eczema outbreaks. If your child does not get enough omega-3s through diet alone, consider a fish oil supplement designed for kids. Your natural grocer or homeopath can recommend an effective, mercury-free option.
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Ask your doctor about topical steroid treatments. If regular lotion is not doing the trick, your physician may recommend an over-the-counter or prescription steroidal cream such as hydrocortisone or prednicarbate (Dermatop). Discuss application specifics before you begin using the cream, since topical steroids can thin the skin when used on a long-term basis.
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