Seattle Children’s Urgent Care Locations
If your childâs illness or injury is life-threatening, call 911.
Eczema In Teens And Adults
While most people outgrow atopic dermatitis by the time they are teenagers, it can persist into adulthood. For others, childhood eczema that had cleared up years prior may reemerge.
Eczema can also develop for the very first time in adulthood this is called adult-onset eczema. Some of the prime years for developing adult-onset eczema include middle age and older. Skin naturally becomes drier as people get older, leaving it more vulnerable.
In teens and adults, eczema classically involves:
- Creases of the elbows
- Around the eyes or on the eyelids
Eczema most often affects areas exposed to allergens or irritants, as well as flexural areas that are easily scratched. Adults may find their skin becomes thickened and leathery-looking in areas affected by the rash.
There are other skin conditions that look very similar to eczema, including contact dermatitis, psoriasis, and rosacea. Its important to see a healthcare provider if you develop rash symptoms for the first time as an adult to ensure you get the correct diagnosis and treatment.
Immunomodulators In Atopic Dermatitis
Tacrolimus is an immunomodulator that acts as a calcineurin inhibitor. Studies have shown excellent results compared with placebo and hydrocortisone 1%. Little absorption occurs. A stinging sensation may occur following application, but this can be minimized by applying the medication only when the skin is dry. The burning usually disappears within 2-3 days. Tacrolimus is available in 2 strengths, 0.1% for adults and 0.03% for children, although some authorities routinely use the 0.1% preparation in children. Tacrolimus is an ointment and is indicated for moderate-to-severe AD. It is indicated for children older than 2 years.
Pimecrolimus 1% is also an immunomodulator and calcineurin inhibitor. It is more effective than placebo. Pimecrolimus is produced in a cream base for use twice a day it is indicated for mild AD in persons older than 2 years and is particularly useful on the face.
A 2006 black box warning has been issued in the United States based on research that has shown an increase in malignancy in association with the calcineurin inhibitors. While these claims are being investigated further, the medication should likely only be used as indicated .
These agents are much more expensive than corticosteroids and should only be used as second-line therapy.
Don’t Miss: What Vitamins To Take For Eczema
Bathing Moisturizing And Wet Wraps
People with eczema tend to have very dry skin in general. This is because the disease causes defects in the stratum corneum, or the skin barrier. The skin barrier is the outermost layer of the skin that serves a dual purpose: it protects irritants, bacteria, viruses and allergens from getting into our bodies and it keeps moisture from getting out. Genes, skin trauma such as from scratching or rubbing and inflammation caused by the immune system can all contribute to this defective or leaky skin barrier in people with eczema.
The most effective way to treat dry itchy skin is to give it the moisture it needs and help it to retain it. Proper bathing and moisturizing are important for this reason especially if you have eczema. The best way to replace and retain moisture in the skin is to moisturize immediately after taking a bath or shower. Download our step-by-step eczema care fact sheet.
Skin: Condition: Infomation Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors
Calcineurin inhibitors, tacrolimus ointment and pimecrolimus cream, may be used when AE is not responding to topical steroids, or in skin sites which are more susceptible to the side effects of steroids, such as the face, eyelids and armpits and groin. The most common side effect is stinging on application but this normally disappears after a few applications. They are associated with an increased risk of skin infections and should not be applied to infected skin.
A maintenance regimen using intermittent calcineurin inhibitors is useful in patients who have frequent flare-ups of AE.
Read Also: Why Am I Getting Eczema On My Face
Tips For When You Itch
If you canât take it and you simply must scratch, try not to use your fingernails. Instead, rub, pat, tap, or tightly hold the itchy area. You can also gently pinch your skin.
It helps to keep your nails short so youâre less likely to break your skin if you do scratch. You can also try wearing gloves to bed to protect your skin while youâre asleep.
You can try a few other things to deal with the urge to scratch:
Avoid âitch triggers.â Whether itâs a wool sweater, hot room, or a certain cleaning product, know what sets off your skin, then try to steer clear.
Cool off. A wet compress or cold shower can ease the itching.
Take care of your skin. Dry skin will make itching worse. Donât take long, hot showers or baths. Use a gentle, scent-free hydrating cleanser, and stay away from perfumed products.
Apply lotion. At least once a day, use moisturizing cream to soothe your itchy skin. Your doctor may suggest something that has menthol or calamine in it to cool your skin.
Ask your doctor. If over-the-counter creams donât work, ask about prescription meds. For example, corticosteroids can help ease the itch from eczema and psoriasis. If itâs caused by nerve pain, like with multiple sclerosis, an antidepressant or anti-seizure drug might work.
Watch for infection. Call your doctor if your skin is tender to the touch, begins to smell, or oozes pus.
Washington University, St. Louis: âWhy scratching makes you itch more.â
Cleveland Clinic: âDry Skin/Itchy Skin.â
What Else Can Cause Itchy Skin At Night
Stress and anxiety can make you feel like scratching, though there may be no cause behind it. Some nerve disorders also trigger a feeling of itchy skin. The nerve disorder itch could be indicative of other ailments like multiple sclerosis, diabetes or shingles.
In rare cases, an itch that wont go away with every other treatment could be an early symptom of cancer. But, this holds true only if it is accompanied with other symptoms such as low grade fever, sudden weight loss and night sweats.
Wrapping Up
While itchy skin all over the body at night occurs mostly due to dry skin, there are other causes and medical conditions that can cause it. Preventive measures work best in keeping itchy skin at bay. However, there are several home remedies and topical creams you can apply if your skin starts itching every night. Dont forget to consult your doctor in case the problem persists for too long.
Did You Know?
- Those with eczema are more likely to suffer from this condition.
- If you have hypothyroidism, you could have dry skin that leads to itching all over the body.
- With age, the skin gets drier, hence older people are more prone to itching all over the body.
- People living in colder and drier climates have dry skin which is a cause for itching.
You May Like: Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream For Eczema Review
Tips For Reducing Outbreaks
Here are a few ways to prevent eczema flare-ups and manage symptoms:
- Apply cool compresses to your skin, or take a colloidal oatmeal or baking soda bath to relieve the itch.
- Moisturize your skin daily with a rich, oil-based cream or ointment to form a protective barrier against the elements. Apply the cream right after you get out of the shower or bath to seal in moisture.
- After you bathe, gently blot your skin with a soft towel. Never rub.
- Avoid scratching. You could cause an infection.
- Use fragrance-free detergents, cleansers, makeup, and other skin care products.
- Wear gloves and protective clothing whenever you handle chemicals.
- Wear loose-fitting clothes made from soft fibers, like cotton.
You should also avoid any known triggers.
Prevention Of Scalp Eczema
At this time, there is no evidence to suggest that any intervention will decrease the chances of having scalp eczema in babies. Regardless, general practices such as maintaining good hygiene of the baby, keeping baby in good health, avoiding contact with any allergen, etc. can help prevent eczema flare ups to some extent.
Some doctors advise avoiding shampoo for children under one year. There is concern that it can dry and irritate the skin. If you decide to get shampoo for our child, make sure its a gentle shampoo and works well with eczema. I personally use the Mustela Foam Shampoo, which works well for my child and it is very gentle. Of course, talk to your physician first.
Recommended Reading: How To Deal With Eczema
Also Check: Best Anti Itch Medicine For Eczema
How Is Atopic Dermatitis Diagnosed In A Child
The healthcare provider will ask about your childs symptoms and health history. He or she may also ask if you or other family members have atopic dermatitis, asthma, or nasal allergies such as hay fever or allergic rhinitis. He or she will also ask about allergy symptoms in your child. The healthcare provider will examine your child, looking for signs of atopic dermatitis. There is no specific test for atopic dermatitis. Testing is usually not needed, but it may be done. Tests may include:
-
Blood tests. Your childs blood may be checked for levels of immunoglobulin E . IgE is released by the body’s immune system. Its high in most children with allergies and with atopic dermatitis. Other blood tests may also be done.
-
Skin tests. Skin tests may be done to check for allergies or other skin conditions.
Diagnosing Food Allergy And Eczema Flare
- Your childs doctor may suggest the steps listed below:
- Remove the suspected food or foods from your childs diet for 2 weeks. The eczema should greatly improve.
- Then give your child that food when the eczema is under good control. This is called a challenge.
- If the food is causing flare-ups, the eczema should become itchy and red. The flare-up should occur quickly within 2 hours of eating the food.
- If this occurs, avoid giving this food to your child. Talk to your childs doctor about the need for any food substitutes.
- If the eczema does not flare-up, your child isnt allergic to that food.
Also Check: Side Effects Of Eczema Medication
Everyday Things That Can Trigger Eczema
The factors are
- Metals like Nickel
- Personal care products.
- Specific fabrics like polyester or wool.
2. Stress Another factor for eczema is stress. Life is incomplete without stress. Each human has stress in their life. But too much stress can lead to eczema.
3. Defects in skin structure that lock the way for the moisturizer to penetrate inside but allow the pathogen to enter inside the skin
4. Children are likely to develop eczema if they
- Live in an urban or polluted area.
- Live in cold climatic conditions.
5. Daily Activity: Sometimes, our daily activities may cause eczema. The activities are
- Prolonged exposure to water.
- Become too hot or too cold.
- Not using proper moisture.
- Living in arid climates all year round.
6. Eczema can also start with certain chronic conditions that affect or weaken our immunity power. For example, the chronic conditions that can worsen an eczema flare are
- The cold or flu infection.
- Bacterial infection.
- Any types of allergic reaction from dust, smoke, pollen, or pets.
Does Your Child Need To See A Doctor About Eczema
Yes. Take your child to see your GP if your child:
- might have eczema for the first time
- is very itchy and uncomfortable
- has eczema thats weeping or bleeding
- has eczema that hasnt improved much after a few days, even though youve been treating it as usual
- is having trouble sleeping because the rash is so itchy
- has painful or eczema that has developed pus
- has eczema and is generally unwell for example, has a fever and/or is sweating, feeding poorly or tired.
You should also take your child to the GP if youre not sure whether the rash is eczema.
If your childs eczema doesnt improve with a combination of medical treatment and management at home, your GP might refer your child to a dermatologist. If the GP thinks your childs eczema might be from allergies, they might also refer you to an allergy and immunology specialist.
Don’t Miss: How Do You Diagnose Eczema
Use A Moisturizer On Your Skin Every Day
Moisturizers help keep your skin soft and flexible. They prevent skin cracks. A plain moisturizer is best. Avoid moisturizers with fragrances and a lot of extra ingredients. A good, cheap moisturizer is plain petroleum jelly . Use moisturizers that are more greasy than creamy because creams usually have more preservatives in them.
Regular use of a moisturizer can help prevent the dry skin that is common in winter.
What Are The Best Treatments For My Babys Hives
Most mild cases of baby hives will eventually go away on their own. But for those pesky hives that linger around and irritate your sweet baby, we have some options for you!
The best treatment for baby hives is to remove the irritant that caused the breakout in the first place. However, as mentioned above, this is often not possible. As such, other treatments must be used to heal your babys hives. Below are some easy treatment options.
Also Check: Foods To Eat To Get Rid Of Eczema
Favorite Annual Meetings For Eczema Patients
The NEAs annual expo provides a vacation retreat for people and families affected by eczema. The four-day event includes activities educational seminars camps for infants, children, and teens and hotel accommodations that are as free of potential allergens as possible. The next Eczema Expo is June 25 through 28, 2020, in Orlando, Florida. The organization offers a limited amount of needs-based scholarships to help people attend.
Treating Eczema A Stepped Approach
The recommended first-line treatments for most cases of eczema are emollients and topical steroids. Paste bandages and wet wraps may be a helpful addition for some people, particularly where scratching is a major problem. Sedating-type antihistamines may be useful in helping with sleeping at night . Long-term use is not recommended.
When there is an inadequate response to appropriate strengths of topical steroid, or if these are not tolerated, especially on areas of delicate skin, topical calcineurin inhibitors the cream pimecrolimus or the ointment tacrolimus may be useful.
Treatments for more severe eczema, or additional treatments, include phototherapy, oral steroids, immunosuppressant drugs, a biologic drug and a Janus kinase inhibitor.
Before progressing to additional treatments, it is essential to check that there is no other explanation for the eczema being uncontrolled. The following are examples of questions that should be considered by your doctor, but it is not an exhaustive list:
- Have all topical therapies been used to the highest dose possible that is safe? , please see our Topical steroids factsheet.)
- Have all irritants and allergens been identified and avoided to the extent practicable?
- Has infection been controlled?
- Is the eczema diagnosis correct?
Have a look at our factsheets to find out more about different eczema treatments.
You May Like: How To Clear Eczema On Hands
Living With Dry Skin And Eczema
When my son, Ethan, turned 3 months old, he was diagnosed with eczema . Like any first-time mother, I was crushed as the eczema progressed and expanded over every part of his body. By his fourth month, he had severe eczema. Eczema is severe form of dry skin. Unlike traditional dry skin, eczema frequently has an underlying allergy in Ethans case, a food allergy. Each doctor and specialist I saw prescribed the same thing: hydrocortisone cream. The cream would help some areas, but doctors didnt recommended using it often or over Ethans full body because of its high potency.
I knew there had to be more I could do.
Completely frustrated, I began doing my own research. The more I read, the more I became aware of hundreds of items that could be causing such a reaction in my baby. To fight back against the eczema, I knew I needed a plan, so I set goals for myself:
* Goal 1: Relieve pain and itchy sensations for my son.
* Goal 2: Find the cause of flare-ups .
* Goal 3: Eliminate household irritants.
* Goal 4: Maintain Ethans healthy skin and know how to combat flare-ups if they arise.
My battle reformed not only how I raise my baby, but it changed my own lifestyle, too. I learned so much that applied to eczema, but I have also incorporated the nutrition changes to my own diet.