winter eczema on the high

By Sue Hubbard, M.D.12:04 p.m. EST, February 18, 2014

I received an email (and photos!) the other day from a mother concerned about finding a "spot" on her 6-year-old son's back. The boy was otherwise well and Mom didn't see any other "spots" or rash. Her son had complained that the "spot" was itchy, so the mother applied some over-the-counter cortisone cream (which I always tell patients to try). When the spots didn't improve after two days (although they didn't get worse), the mother thought the problem might be ringworm, so she applied an OTC anti-fungal cream. Again, the problem didn't clear up, but did not worsen or spread. Now, in medicine, you learn about red herrings that are part of a patient's history, though they usually have no bearing on a current problem. In this case, the family dog had developed a lesion, which a veterinarian diagnosed as a staph infection. The vet told the patient's mom that the skin problem was not contagious to humans. Are we talking red herring or have we found the problem? After reviewing the photos, I began thinking the boy's problem might be nummular eczema (nummular meaning "coin- shaped," hence the round appearance of the spot), as the outbreak was not bothersome other than being itchy, and eczema is often called the "itch that scratches." With all of this cold, dry weather gripping much of the country right now,
and heaters running full blast in homes, schools and businesses, eczema is having a heyday. I've seen a ton of these little inflamed patches on skin of all ages (my own hands are a mess!). The treatment of choice is to moisturize the skin and use of a topical steroid. However, it takes a long time to see improvement in such spots, and they may change on a daily basis depending on the weather, bathing, and how much lubrication and moisturizing you're doing. I would use an OTC moisturizer containing ceramides (Cetaphil Restoraderm, Cerave, Aveeno for eczema) liberally and frequently. I'd also suggest applying an OTC steroid several times a day (under the moisturizer). Eczema also sometimes requires a stronger topical steroid available by prescription. If the problem does not improve after 7-10 days, it may be worth a visit to your pediatrician for an up close and personal diagnosis. (Dr. Sue Hubbard is an award-winning pediatrician, medical editor and media host. "The Kid's Doctor" TV feature can be seen on more than 90 stations across the U.S. Submit questions at http://www.kidsdr.com.
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CETAPHIL RESTORADERM MOIST 295ML £23.28

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            This naturally nourishing lotion contains Natural Colloidal Oatmeal blended with rich emollients and is now proven to help skin build a "moisture reserve," so skin can replenish itself. Its fast-absorbing formula helps prevent and protect dry skin, leaving it feeling soft, smooth and naturally healthy looking. It's fragrance free, non-greasy, noncomedogenic and gentle enough for everyday use - good for sensitive skin.             Amazon Verified Purchase

If you have sensitive skin which is prone to itching and eczema this product is one of the best I have found so far, and I have tried very many. What I particularly like about it is that after a couple of minutes it doesn't feel sticky or tacky, so there is not that uncomfortable feeling of putting clothes on top of the moisturiser. It's obviously a very well researched product. I've just ordered some more. I don't want to be without it.
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Aveeno Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Cream 210 ml £14.95

This naturally nourishing lotion contains Natural Colloidal Oatmeal blended with rich emollients and is now proven to help skin build a “moisture reserve,” so skin can replenish itself. Its fast-absorbing formula helps prevent and protect dry skin, leaving it feeling soft, smooth and naturally healthy looking. It’s fragrance free, non-greasy, noncomedogenic and gentle enough for everyday use – good for sensitive skin.

 CeraVe Moisturizing Cream (16 oz)

If you have sensitive skin which is prone to itching and eczema this product is one of the best I have found so far, and I have tried very many. What I particularly like about it is that after a couple of minutes it doesn't feel sticky or tacky, so there is not that uncomfortable feeling of putting clothes on top of the moisturiser. It's obviously a very well researched product. I've just ordered some more. I don't want to be without it.

 

 

 

 

How to Become Eczema Free

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Eczema Free Forever By Rachel Anderson