Sandy Crest Medical Centre - Health Tips
Atopic Dermatitis/Eczema
Often begins between ages 2 to 6 months.
Initially a very dry, sensitive and itchy forehead, cheeks and scalp
rash is noted; later spreads to trunk, creases of elbows, knees,
wrists. Often a family history of asthma, allergies or eczema.
There is no cure; however, most children “grow
out of it”. Steroid creams are the main treatments for eczema flare
ups; in severe cases steroid ointments are used. Application of
prescription strength steroid cream/ointment to the face and diaper
area should be avoided, unless specifically instructed to do so.
After eczema settles, it is best to taper
steroid use by applying every other day for 2 to 3 weeks before
completely stopping. Oral antihistamines helps control itching.
Daily bath for 15-20 minutes helps moisturize the skin. Use a mild,
nondrying soap, (e.g. Dove) and avoid vigorous scrubbing, use a soft
towel to pat the skin dry. A doctor recommended lubricating cream or
ointment should be liberally applied to the skin within 3 minutes of
bathing (and after the steroid cream/ ointment) and throughout the
day as needed; this should be used every day, even when the eczema
isn't flaring-up.
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