Kids Health Notes

Finding relief for eczema and winter’s itch

by Grace on February 20th, 2008

Dry skin and itchiness is common complain of children during the cold season. But there is a big difference between itchy rashes due to dryness and those due to allergies. The latter is known as eczema.

Eczema is caused by a reaction to certain allergens in the environment such as pollens, molds, dust, animal dander, and certain foods. In some cases, the allergen can be identified and avoidance is the best way to prevent an outbreak of rashes. In most cases, and especially with multiple allergies, it is difficult to pinpoint exactly how and why the skin reacts.

What are the signs of eczema?

• Very dry skin
• Oozing skin
• skin looks like a red, itchy, scaly rash

Some common triggers include overheating or sweating, or contact with irritants such as wool, pets, soaps, and certain food.

What can you do to manage the rashes and itchiness?

• Avoid the trigger if possible. Food is one of the main culprits in children so discuss your suspicions with the pediatrician to manage this as early as possible.
• Use warm water with mild soaps or nonsoap cleansers when bathing your child.

• Keep your child’s skin lubricated with lotions and creams to help to lock the moisture in their skin and protect against future rashes.
• Avoid dressing your child in harsh or irritating clothing, such as wool or coarsely woven materials. Dress your child in soft clothes that “breathe,” such as those made from cotton.
• Keep your child’s fingernails short to minimize any skin damage caused by scratching.
• Try to have your children not scratch or rub the rash. This may be difficult for young children, especially at night, so wearing gloves might help them from breaking the skin with their nails as/if they scratch.
• Have your child drink plenty of water, which adds moisture to the skin.
• As always, consult with your physician. He may be able to recommend cortisone creams or even antihistamines or oral corticosteroids to relieve the itch.
• Help your child avoid becoming overheated, which can lead to flare-ups.
• Apply cool compresses (such as a wet, cool washcloth) on the irritated areas of your child’s skin to ease itching.

Eczema needs constant management, sometimes all year round. It can be bothersome for parents and child alike, and some kids become irritable because of the itch. But prevention, proper management and perseverance will help keep your child’s eczema under control.

sources: kidsgrowth; kidshealth

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POSTED IN: Asthma and Allergy, Diseases and Medical Conditions