ATOPIC DERMATITIS
ECZEMA: Very common skin problem in children.
Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of Eczema.
It usually begins in Infants (less than a 1-year-old child). It improves as the child grows older and resolves by the time child starts going to school or reaches puberty. Some children may develop chronic diseases.
Causes:
Sensitive skin is more easily irritated by sweating, heat, rough clothing and some detergents, soaps, etc. Some may have allergies to food, pets, dust mites.
Symptoms:
Red, dry, itchy patches on the skin. Itching may be severe and constant; with frequent scratching, the skin may develop blisters, oozing, crusting. Affects mainly the face, scalp arms, legs.
Treatments:
No Cure, but can be controlled with good skincare
- Bathing: gentle soap, limit time.
- Topical (Skin) Medicines: topical steroids needed in severe cases or during a flare-up
- Moisturizers: apply moisturizer 30 minutes after you apply for any topical medicines. This allows it to seal the medicine. Eg vaseline or any petroleum jelly.
- Antihistamines: anti-allergic medicines to decrease itching. It can make a child sleepy.
- Environmental Triggers: Avoid food, pets, dust mites that can trigger these conditions.
- Skin Infections: chances of secondary infections are there so your child might need topical antibiotics as well.
When to call the doctor:
Mild to moderate cases can be managed by your child specialist but in severe cases or if no improvement then need to consult a dermatologist or skin Specialist.
Regards
Dr. Rahul Varma
