FAQ
Q: How did my child get eczema?
A: Although eczema research is still relatively new, most cases have revealed an inherited tendency to acquire it. Atopy (a genetic tendency to develop classic allergic diseases like rhinitis, asthma and hay fever) is the term doctors use to describe this tendency. However, the environment plays a significant role as well (such as higher temperatures in the summer and drier winters).
Q: How does stress affect eczema?
A: It does not appear that stress causes eczema. We do know, however, that in eczema-prone people, certain things may cause a "flare-up" or may "trigger" an episode of eczema. We know that when someone is experiencing stress they are more likely to feel itchy and then scratch their skin, which aggravates and worsens their condition.
A: It does not appear that stress causes eczema. We do know, however, that in eczema-prone people, certain things may cause a "flare-up" or may "trigger" an episode of eczema. We know that when someone is experiencing stress they are more likely to feel itchy and then scratch their skin, which aggravates and worsens their condition.
Q: How common is eczema in children and adults?
A: It is currently estimated that between 15-25% of children are affected by eczema. Because most people outgrow their eczema, the numbers are significantly lower for adults.
A: It is currently estimated that between 15-25% of children are affected by eczema. Because most people outgrow their eczema, the numbers are significantly lower for adults.
Q: How can I tell if my child has eczema?
A: Although redness and dryness are often the first signs, it is usually the itch that upsets children and parents and causes them to seek a doctor's opinion. It is not unusual for family doctors to have difficulty diagnosing eczema, since it mirrors many other skin conditions. A dermatologist or pediatric dermatologist is best equipped to accurately diagnose your child.
Q: Can homoeopathic practitioners or acupuncturists help with my child's eczema
A: In Canada, physicians and concerned groups like the Eczema Society of Canada do not condone any treatment regimen other than those recommended by traditional medicine when appropriate.
A: In Canada, physicians and concerned groups like the Eczema Society of Canada do not condone any treatment regimen other than those recommended by traditional medicine when appropriate.
Q: How do I know that my treatment regimen is working?
A: A successful treatment will reduce the itch, and the rash will not be as red and inflamed.
A: A successful treatment will reduce the itch, and the rash will not be as red and inflamed.
Q: Is it normal for my child's eczema to come and go in uncontrollable cycles? How can I get better control over these cycles?
A: One of the classic problems with eczema is its tendency to flare up and then get better. Sometimes it can be controlled by using a humidifier in the winter and air conditioning in the summer. Preventing the child from getting overheated and treating fevers as soon as possible will also help. Nevertheless, eczema is a disease that comes and goes even if you do everything right.
Q: My child has just had a flare-up. How should I treat the open cracks?
A: Cover the cracks with petroleum jelly before entering the bath, as open cracks can burn. Hydrocortisone, Betamethasone, or Tacrolimus can help heal cracks faster.
A: Cover the cracks with petroleum jelly before entering the bath, as open cracks can burn. Hydrocortisone, Betamethasone, or Tacrolimus can help heal cracks faster.
Q: Is there some magic ointment I can get that controls eczema?
A: No. There is no cure for eczema, only good self-treatment. There are now many medications available, including topical corticosteroids (these have few if any side effects in young children), tacrolimus (Protopic) and ascomycin (Elidel). These help flare-ups and severe conditions, but consistent day-to-day skin care is your best approach to managing eczema.
A: No. There is no cure for eczema, only good self-treatment. There are now many medications available, including topical corticosteroids (these have few if any side effects in young children), tacrolimus (Protopic) and ascomycin (Elidel). These help flare-ups and severe conditions, but consistent day-to-day skin care is your best approach to managing eczema.
Q: I've heard that baths are not good for eczema. Why is frequent bathing recommended?
A: Hydration is the key to treating eczema. By using emulsified oil (that's specially-treated oil that mixes with water) both water and oil are able to penetrate the skin. The water should be lukewarm, not hot. After bathing, leave some water on the skin, lightly patting the excess dry with a towel. Then apply your prescription ointments or creams and, once they're absorbed, a good moisturizer. Bathing allows rough skin to soften, take in water, and then better absorb the topical treatments you apply.
A: Hydration is the key to treating eczema. By using emulsified oil (that's specially-treated oil that mixes with water) both water and oil are able to penetrate the skin. The water should be lukewarm, not hot. After bathing, leave some water on the skin, lightly patting the excess dry with a towel. Then apply your prescription ointments or creams and, once they're absorbed, a good moisturizer. Bathing allows rough skin to soften, take in water, and then better absorb the topical treatments you apply.
Q: What types/brands of moisturizer should I use?
A: Petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline®, is cheap, safe, and effective. In the summer, Vaseline may be too greasy so creams like Aveeno® moisturizer or Nivea® cream are recommended. Other moisturizers you may want to try are Aquaphor®, Eucerin®, Glaxal® base, or Lipicare®. The skin should be wet when these are applied.
A: Petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline®, is cheap, safe, and effective. In the summer, Vaseline may be too greasy so creams like Aveeno® moisturizer or Nivea® cream are recommended. Other moisturizers you may want to try are Aquaphor®, Eucerin®, Glaxal® base, or Lipicare®. The skin should be wet when these are applied.
For treatment during a flare-ups, it's best to use your prescribed ointments together with a rich emollient, such as Aquaphor or Vaseline. Aquaphor can be found behind the counter at your local drug store, or ordered from your pharmacist. This is one of the highest concentration moisturizers on the market and contains a bonding agent that helps the moisturizer stick to skin instead of your child's clothes (like Vaseline does).
There are many classes of moisturizers. The lower concentrations are "lotions" or "creams" (e.g. Aveeno Lotion); a stronger concentration of moisturizer would be an "ointment" (e.g. Vaseline or Aquaphor)". For skin with eczema, you want to use "ointment" moisturizers during a flare-up and only after you've applied your prescription ointment. When the skin is clear, you can move back to a fragrance free "lotion" (e.g. Aveeno baby, Moisturel, etc).
Q: What types/brands of sunscreen/sunblock are best?
A: Some suggested products include La Roche Posay, Neutrogena, and Aveeno. Be sure to test the product on a small patch of skin prior to use, as sunblocks are known to cause skin allergies.
A: Some suggested products include La Roche Posay, Neutrogena, and Aveeno. Be sure to test the product on a small patch of skin prior to use, as sunblocks are known to cause skin allergies.
Q: What can be done for eczema on the scalp?
A: Atopic dermatitis (eczema) can definitely affect the scalp. However, there are many other conditions which can affect the scalp, so first confirm with your doctor that eczema is what's causing the problem. As with eczema of the skin, scalp eczema is an inflammatory condition. Typically this is treated with anti-inflammatory preparations which also help with the itching. Anti-inflammatory treatments (usually corticosteroids) are available in several formulations (scalp lotions, oils, creams etc). Discuss with your doctor which of these might be appropriate for you or your child.
A: Atopic dermatitis (eczema) can definitely affect the scalp. However, there are many other conditions which can affect the scalp, so first confirm with your doctor that eczema is what's causing the problem. As with eczema of the skin, scalp eczema is an inflammatory condition. Typically this is treated with anti-inflammatory preparations which also help with the itching. Anti-inflammatory treatments (usually corticosteroids) are available in several formulations (scalp lotions, oils, creams etc). Discuss with your doctor which of these might be appropriate for you or your child.
Q: Do changing our laundry detergent and using a humidifier really help with eczema?
A: Yes! A humidifier helps to keep the air moist; remember to also keep your home cool in the summer. By using mild detergents that are free of fragrances and dyes, you can reduce skin irritation. Avoiding the use of bleach and fabric softeners is also important. Using cotton clothing helps to keep skin cool, as sweating causes itchiness. Avoid all products that contain potentially irritating ingredients such as alcohol, perfumes and fragrances, paint strippers and astringents. Don't forget yourself as well. If you are handling a baby with eczema, your perfumes can transfer to the baby and be irritating.
A: Yes! A humidifier helps to keep the air moist; remember to also keep your home cool in the summer. By using mild detergents that are free of fragrances and dyes, you can reduce skin irritation. Avoiding the use of bleach and fabric softeners is also important. Using cotton clothing helps to keep skin cool, as sweating causes itchiness. Avoid all products that contain potentially irritating ingredients such as alcohol, perfumes and fragrances, paint strippers and astringents. Don't forget yourself as well. If you are handling a baby with eczema, your perfumes can transfer to the baby and be irritating.
Q: How can I find a dermatologist?
A: All referrals to dermatologists must come directly from your family doctor or pediatrician. The appointment would be set up through your child's pediatrician. Your family doctor or pediatrician will have a list of dermatologists in your area who are currently accepting new patients.
A: All referrals to dermatologists must come directly from your family doctor or pediatrician. The appointment would be set up through your child's pediatrician. Your family doctor or pediatrician will have a list of dermatologists in your area who are currently accepting new patients.
Q: My son scratches himself until he is bleeding, which makes his eczema worse. What I can I do?
A: Keeping his nails trimmed short and smooth at all times is a first line of defence. Then, follow a good control regimen:
A: Keeping his nails trimmed short and smooth at all times is a first line of defence. Then, follow a good control regimen:
- Prevent dryness (by bathing and moisturizing regularly)
- Treat inflammations (with prescription ointments)
- Control the itch (with antihistamines). As soon as itching begins, moisturize the area.
Q: How safe are prescription creams on toddlers and small children? I have heard there are side effects.
A: Prescription ointments, when used properly as prescribed by your dermatologist, are safe. Discuss the regimen and safe use of prescription ointment with your doctor so that you have a clear understanding of how to use the medication. We recommend that they be used in conjunction with regular gentle bathing and moisturizers.
A: Prescription ointments, when used properly as prescribed by your dermatologist, are safe. Discuss the regimen and safe use of prescription ointment with your doctor so that you have a clear understanding of how to use the medication. We recommend that they be used in conjunction with regular gentle bathing and moisturizers.
Q: What's the difference in appearance between a flare-up of eczema and hives from a contact allergy?
A: Hives are usually red, swollen, and itchy rashes that can come and go fairly quickly. They often move from spot to spot and respond readily to antihistamines. Eczema causes rough, red and scaly areas, not at all like hives.
A: Hives are usually red, swollen, and itchy rashes that can come and go fairly quickly. They often move from spot to spot and respond readily to antihistamines. Eczema causes rough, red and scaly areas, not at all like hives.
Q: My child's eczema is now infected as a result of scratching. How do I clean and care for it?
A: If limited areas of the skin are infected (causing an oozing yellow discharge) you can use saline soaks (for 5 minutes, 4-5 times/day) followed by Polysporin ointment. If large areas are affected your child needs an oral antibiotic. Check with your doctor if you think there is a possibility of widespread infection.
A: If limited areas of the skin are infected (causing an oozing yellow discharge) you can use saline soaks (for 5 minutes, 4-5 times/day) followed by Polysporin ointment. If large areas are affected your child needs an oral antibiotic. Check with your doctor if you think there is a possibility of widespread infection.
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Contact Information:
Canadian Skin Patient Alliance
2446 Bank Street, Suite 383
Ottawa, Ontario
K1V 1A8
Sheri Pilon, Program & Services Manager
phone: 613-224-4266
fax: 613-422- 4267
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