Eczema affects about 10% to 20% of infants and about 3% of adults. Most infants will outgrow the condition, but some will continue to have symptoms throughout their life. With proper treatment, eczema can usually be controlled. Call our office to have your child evaluated for Eczema.
Eczema is usually a very itchy condition that can actually start before the rash appears. Typically, the rash will appear on the face, back of the knees, wrists, hands or feet, but can affect other areas as well. The affected areas will appear very dry, thick, and scaly. In fair-skinned people, these areas may appear reddish and then eventually turn brown. In darker-skinned people, eczema can affect pigmentation, which can make the affected skin lighter or darker.
During the visit, your provider will ask you a series of targeted questions to determine if your symptoms point to eczema. Your provider will proceed to determine the best treatment plan for you. Your treatment plan is based on the duration and severity of your symptoms and your medical history.
Once a diagnosis has been made, your doctor will go over the risks and benefits of the various treatment plans. Treatment for atopic eczema is different depending on the severity. However, a consistent skincare routine is imperative for successful treatment. This is sometimes difficult for adolescent patients, so follow up visits, especially at the beginning of treatment, will be important.
Options for treatment of dermatitis may include:
Moisturizers
Barrier creams
A prescription for steroids, antihistamines or topical antiseptics
Call Caring Pediatrics today for expert diagnosis and treatment of Eczema.
