Eczema And Your Child: When Creams Are Not Enough

Eczema is very dry skin that is most often caused by allergies, usually to foods. Many babies and toddlers suffer with this condition because their immune systems are still developing. This can mean itchy, uncomfortable skin for your child, which can be hard on the whole family especially if this is keeping them (and you) up at night.

Typical treatments for eczema involve the use of hydrocortisone creams which, while they do reduce inflammation temporarily, they don’t address the cause(s) of this inflammation, and long-term usage of these creams weakens the skin. Damaged skin gets more itchy and sore, and the cycle continues.

So what does work?

1. Strengthening the immune system with probiotics (and not through yogurt) 

Probiotics

2. Nourishing the skin with fish oils is key for itchy, dry skin. Fish oils contain omega-3s, which are fats that combat inflammation and support brain development. Taken orally both in liquid and yummy chewable forms (gummies), fish oils help to hydrate the skin, which over time becomes less irritated. If your child cannot consume fish due to allergy, there are other vegetarian oils high in omega-3s such as algae.

3. Identifying and avoiding irritating triggers. While this can be very difficult for many parents, the hard truth is that it is very likely there is a food your child is eating that is causing eczema. When the immune system is immature, it can often recognize some of your child’s favourite foods as something more sinister, and your child’s body will react. I have seen this response to cheese, milk, too much sugar (this includes fruit), tomatoes, and wheat. Click here to read more about the possible triggers for your child.

These are just a few of the many ways we can help your child if they are suffering with eczema. If you have any questions, feel free to drop me a line at info@draoife.com or check out my website at www.draoife.com for extra eczema tips over the next few weeks as November is National Eczema month!