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Eczema in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

Eczema (say "EGG-zuh-muh") is also called atopic dermatitis. It's a skin problem that causes intense itching and a raised rash. Sometimes the rash develops blisters and crusts. It is often scaly. The rash isn't contagious. Your child can't catch it from others.

In lighter skin, the rash may look pink or red. In darker skin, the rash may be hard to see or it may look dark brown, grey, or purple. Or there may be patches of lighter skin.

Eczema often runs in families. Children with eczema may also have allergies and asthma or develop them in the future.

There is no cure for eczema. But you may be able to control it. Some children may grow out of the condition.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

How can you care for your child at home?

  • Use moisturizer at least twice a day.
  • If your doctor prescribes a cream, use it as directed. If your doctor prescribes other medicine, give it exactly as directed.
  • Have your child bathe in warm (not hot) water. Do not use bath oils.
  • Do not use soap at every bath. When you do need soap, use a gentle, non-drying cleanser such as Aveeno, Basis, Dove, or Neutrogena.
  • Apply a moisturizer after bathing. Use petroleum jelly or a cream such as Cetaphil, Lubriderm, or Moisturel that does not irritate the skin or cause a rash. Apply the cream while your child's skin is still damp after lightly drying with a towel.
  • Place cold, wet cloths on the rash to help with itching.
  • Keep your child's fingernails trimmed and filed smooth to help prevent scratching. Wearing mittens or cotton socks on the hands may help keep your child from scratching the rash.
  • Wash clothes and bedding in mild detergent. Use an unscented fabric softener. Choose soft clothing and bedding.
  • Help your child avoid things that trigger the rash. These may include things like harsh soaps, itchy fabric, and stress.
  • If itching affects your child's sleep, ask the doctor about giving your child an antihistamine that might reduce itching and make your child sleepy, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.

When should you call for help?

Call your doctor or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • Your child has a rash and a fever.
  • Your child has new blisters, or a rash spreads and looks like a sunburn.
  • Your child has crusting or oozing sores.
  • Your child has joint aches or body aches with a rash.
  • Your child has signs of infection. These include:
    • Increased pain, swelling, redness, or warmth around the rash.
    • Red streaks leading from the rash.
    • Pus draining from the rash.
    • A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if:

  • A rash does not clear up after 2 to 3 weeks of home treatment.
  • You cannot control your child's itching.
  • Itching interferes with your child's sleep, daily activities, or mood.
  • Your child has problems with the medicine.

Where can you learn more?

Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

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Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.