Itchy & scratchy

Eczema is a chronic condition, with approximately 60% of childhood eczema persisting until adulthood and beyond

I think my child has eczema. His skin is itchy, dry, rough, flakey, inflamed and irritated. What should I do to bring relief? Can it be cured? Do you have any other tips for me – he is often very uncomfortable, and I believe it interferes with his sleep as well.

DR COMBRINK ANSWERS: Eczema is a very common skin condition, affecting up to

20 percent of children in the world. Causes of eczema include genetics – children are more likely to suffer from eczema if they have parents or siblings who suffer from it. Children’s skin is more sensitive to environmental factors like wool or synthetic fabrics, soap, excessive heat etc. Food allergies and allergies to external sources – like household pets, dust mites and pollen – also contribute to the development of eczema. The focus in the treatment of eczema is identifying and avoiding triggers that will cause eczema to flare up, emollients and topical corticosteroid use. Treatment for the condition aims to heal affected skin and prevent flares of symptoms. Eczema is a chronic condition, with approximately 60 percent of childhood eczema persisting until adulthood and beyond. Helpful tips in the management of childhood eczema include the following:

■ Bath in warm (not hot) water for no longer than

10 to 15 minutes.

■ Use a mild fragrancefree cleanser.

■ Avoid excessive friction when drying off. Rather pat the skin partially dry.

■ Apply topical corticosteroid when the skin is almost dry.

■ Apply moisturiser on top of the corticosteroid and to the rest of the skin.

■ Apply moisturiser at least twice a day to prevent the skin from drying out or cracking.

■ Avoid extremely dry or hot conditions, as this is the most common trigger of the itch/scratch cycle.

■ Choose clothes that are made from 100 percent cotton fabric.

■ Always wash clothes and remove tags before wearing using a laundry detergent for sensitive skin.

■ Keep fingernails short and clean to decrease the likelihood that scratching will puncture the skin and lead to a secondary infection.

If your child suffers from severe itching or scratching, discuss wet wrap therapy with your paediatrician or dermatologist. ●