It is not only a childhood condition although children are more likely to suffer from it and onset in adulthood is unusual. Atopic eczema or atopic dermatitis is a skin condition which occurs in children and adults and is characterised by skin which is particularly dry and sensitive. It is very common, affecting 10-20% of children, but it is not contagious. It is a chronic condition (that is to say that it can last for years), which means that the sufferer will go through good and bad spells (attacks), depending on the climate, time of year, level of skin hydration etc…
Although atopic dermatitis is a condition associated with an immune system imbalance, it is generally accepted that there is a large genetic component although it is affected more and more by environmental factors. In families with children with atopic dermatitis it is common to find other members (father, mother, siblings, aunts and uncles…) with a history of allergies who have also had the condition. Pollution – especially in cities – excessive use of soap, hardness of the water… are all factors which can influence the appearance of the condition.
The lesions can appear in any part of the body, although the areas affected differ in babies, children and adults.
In babies they occur more frequently on the face, especially on the cheeks and scalp, as well as on the joints of the arms and legs. In older children the most commonly affected areas are the inner elbow and behind the knees, the neck, the wrists, the ankles and the folds between the buttocks and the legs.
This is normal; you feel helpless and you worry that your child will make lesions worse because of the itching.
Although there is no “cure” for atopic dermatitis, it is possible to control it; to do this it is essential to apply moisturising cream to alleviate the skin dryness, irritation and itching. Soft skin itches less and is therefore less likely to cause irritation with the resulting scratching.
When attacks happen it is important not just to moisturise but to add prescribed medication. Often this involves using creams containing corticosteroids which are known to be quick and effective in alleviating symptoms of an attack. They have also been demonstrated to be very safe if used in the appropriate manner.
– Avoid those factors which may cause an attack of atopic dermatitis such as heat, poor humidity and contact with certain materials such as wool or silk; it is better to wear cotton clothes.
– We know how difficult it is, but you should prevent your baby from rubbing the eczema, this can make it worse, and even lead to a skin infection. In small children, it is advisable to keep nails short to avoid scratching.
– Bath time should be short, using warm water. Only use soap with a pH which is mildly acidic and with no irritating ingredients. Dry the skin afterwards, without rubbing, with a soft towel and always apply emoliating cream.
It is very rare for babies to suffer atopic dermatitis in the nappy area. Although nappy dermatitis can have a similar appearance, the area is too damp for atopic dermatitis to occur, says Dr. del Boz, dermatologist at HC Marbella.
Consult us without obligation and we will inform you through the phone 952 908 628 or through the web itself.
Dr. Javier del Boz
Dermatology Specialist
August 8, 2017
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