Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition that often affects children. It is akin to an allergic reaction and often has triggers that cause the skin to become inflamed. Eczema is a skin problem that requires proper treatment because it can cause severe itching. In children, severe itching can be more than bothersome, as it can cause psychological distress.
Let’s learn more about eczema, the treatment options pediatric dermatology clinicians can prescribe as treatment, and where you can find the top pediatric dermatology specialist in Phoenix, AZ.
What is Eczema?
Eczema is a chronic skin condition characterized by skin inflammation, causing very itchy and crusty spots that can ooze to develop. Eczema can run in families, suggesting the condition has a genetic component. Individuals with eczema usually have a family history of hay fever or asthma.
Exposure to certain substances or environmental irritants can trigger or worsen eczema symptoms. Eczema triggers include:
- Harsh chemicals
- Fragranced soaps
- Detergents
- Certain fabrics
- Pet dander
- Pollen
- Hot water that dries the skin
- Cold, dry atmospheric conditions
The skin condition can also be triggered by stress. Pediatric dermatology specialists also assess a child’s psychological state in creating a treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Eczema
While there is no cure for eczema, several treatment options can help manage the symptoms and reduce flare-ups. It’s important to work closely with a pediatric dermatology provider to create an individualized treatment plan for your child.
Here are some common eczema treatment options:
- Moisturizers and dressings –These are used to treat oozing skin. They help to hydrate the skin and protect it from further irritation.
- Anti-itch or corticosteroid lotions – These are used to treat healing or dry areas of eczema. They help to reduce inflammation and itchiness, providing relief and promoting healing.
- Tar compounds – Tar compounds can be used to treat chronic eczema or thickened skin. They have anti-inflammatory properties and can help to reduce itching and scaling.
- Anti-inflammatory medications – These may be prescribed by your doctor to help reduce inflammation associated with eczema. They can be in the form of creams, ointments, or oral medications.
- Topical immunomodulators (TIMs) –TIMs are a class of medications that can be used to treat eczema. They work by modulating the immune response in the skin, reducing inflammation and symptoms.
- Corticosteroid medications – These medications are commonly prescribed to treat eczema, especially when it is severe or persistent. They help to reduce inflammation and control symptoms.
Managing Eczema
In addition to medical treatments, there are several self-care practices you can incorporate into your child’s daily routine to help him or her manage eczema effectively.
Your child’s dermatologist can make personalized recommendations. Here are some useful tips:
- Identify and avoid triggers that cause your child to develop eczema symptoms. Avoid excessive bathing or extremely hot water, and use gentle, fragrance-free soaps and detergents. These are some of the most common eczema triggers.
- Keep your child’s skin hydrated by guiding him or her to apply moisturizer immediately after bathing. Use gentle moisturizers suitable for your child’s sensitive, eczema-prone skin, as recommended by a pediatric dermatologist.
- Stress can worsen eczema symptoms, so it’s important to help your child find ways to manage daily stress. Teach your child simple relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises and encourage participation in physical activity, which helps lower stress levels.
- Choose skin-friendly clothing for your child, and opt for cotton blend clothes, as they are more breathable and less likely to irritate the skin. Avoid wearing tight-fitting or rough-textured clothing that may rub against the skin and trigger flare-ups.
- Keep your child’s nails short and discourage him or her from scratching to prevent scarring and infection.
Every child’s eczema is unique. Understanding your child’s eczema and exploring various treatment options is important for effectively managing this chronic skin condition. Working closely with a pediatric dermatology specialist can help minimize eczema flare-ups in your child and help him or her maintain healthy skin..
Top Pediatric Dermatology Specialist in Phoenix, AZ
Samantha Casselman, DNP, CPNP-PC at Happy Skin Pediatric Dermatology is a pediatric dermatology provider with almost a decade of experience treating children’s skin issues, from eczema to warts. Samantha Casselman leads with compassion and a patient-centric approach. You can trust our team with your child’s dermatology care.
To schedule your private consultation with our pediatric dermatology provider, please call our dermatology office today at (602) 837-3376 or use our convenient online appointment request form. We look forward to caring for your child’s skin.
