For Parent of Children With Eczema – Caring For Older Children
Eczema tends to affect the skin over the joints in older children. The skin in this area may crack and bleed when arms and legs are flexed or extended if not cared for properly. A school age child can be actively involved in his or her own care. You and your child need to be aware of the triggers that bring on flares and the prepared to manage them before they get out of control.
Know your child, and know what to watch out for. With experience, education, and cooperation, you and your child can create an itch free environment. Don’t underestimate the intelligence and capability if your child. Sharing responsibility with your child will create the best possible atmosphere for controlling itching.
First Aid
Children with eczema are at greater risk for skin infections. Regardless of the age of your child, check his or her skin daily for ht following condition:
Scratch Mark
- If they are shallow and few, keep track of them. Make sure they don’t get infected and more attentive to the home care regimen.
- If the scratches are extensive and widespread, it’s a sign that the child’s eczema is significantly worse. Either you need to use prescription medication that you already have at home or may need to call your doctor.
Infected Areas
- For infected area, use antibacterial cleanser and topical antibiotics – either over the counter products or a prescription your doctor has given to you.
- If the infection doesn’t get better or is widespread, or if your child has symptom like chills, malaise, or fever, call your doctor.
Crusting
- Crusting can be the result of scratching eczema so hard and deeply that the scratching causes bleeding. In this case, intensify eczema treatment and use techniques to reduce scratching, such as antihistamines, nail trimming,, bandages, and psychological relaxation techniques.
- If the crust is yellow or green, it might be infected. In that case, follow the aforementioned direction for infection.
Discolored Skin
- Red skin may indicate an eczema flare or an infection. If it doesn’t respond to standard eczema treatment, call your doctor.
- If the discolored skin is yellow or green, it’s probably infected. If your doctor has already given medication and instruction for treating infections, then treat it at home. If it doesn’t improve, call your doctor.
- If the discolored skin is light or dark, it may be eczema and require eczema therapy, or it may be a fungal infection and require antifungal treatment. Try an over the counter antifungal treatment first. If that’s not successful call your doctor.
Regardless of cause, if these conditions get progressively worse or haven’t cleared within two weeks, call your child’s doctor.
Dr.Sarah Tyler is a dermatology specialist in UK. Let her show you how you can help your child lead a normal, enjoyable life with the Minimum Disruption From Eczema.
Loading ...
