Tips for keeping controlled atopic dermatitis     ▲

Atopic dermatitis (also called atopic eczema), tests the patience and stamina and the ability to self-monitoring of patients and parents. While the disease does not experience an improvement, either on its own evolution or by an early treatment, children suffer the effects of a persistent itching or discomfort that intensify easily.

From the viewpoint of parents and others responsible for the care of the child, it is desirable to help keep symptoms of this frustrating disease under a reasonable control. These tips try to help parents about this disorder. We strongly recommend that before taking any measure should consult your doctor's opinion about this advice. He, better than anyone, knows the circumstances of the case.

Protect the skin of your child, providing the necessary moisture     ▲

The environmental dryness caused or not by domestic heating also reduces the moisture content of the skin, reducing the flexibility of this and increasing its susceptibility to irritants, causing itching and/or rash. In these cases, a humidifier to keep the relative humidity above 50% may provide some relief.

Avoid frequent hand washing, which makes them be often in contact with soap, which can act as an irritant and encourage dermatitis.

Avoid frequent and/or long baths, for the same reason as the above. Use slightly warm water for bathing or showering. For drying, you should avoid doing it with harsh or abrasive towels or clothes, drying without rubbing or scrubbing, but rather with mild patting or gentle pressure on the skin.

After the bath, apply as soon as possible (less than 3 minutes after bathing) a moisturizing cream or lotion to keep the own moisture of the skin, but before this, the skin should be dried by patting with a soft towel and dried gently but thoroughly. Remember that dry skin is an important factor in the itch-scratch cycle.

Keep child's mouth clean and dry     ▲

Avoid a prolonged food contact with the child's skin, cleaning gently, but often the mouth.

Control and limit the use of irritants or that provoke allergy     ▲

- Use soap only in the armpits, groins, and feet. This should be as smooth as possible
- Avoid perfumes and cosmetics, as they may cause stinging or itching
- Avoid softeners

Select clothing and other appropriate tissues     ▲

Avoid skin contact with wool and preferably use cotton garments without mixing. You should also take this into account for bed linen.

Avoid scratching     ▲

Teach your child to avoid scratching. If age allows it, teach that itching causes scratching that causes abrasions which end a vicious cycle: to greater itching, greater scratching. Instead, using patting or applying a mild pressure to the skin, applying a gentle lubricant.

Control the environment     ▲

Keep stable the home temperature without oscillations (excessive cold or heat), always a rather cool temperature. Do not shelter the child in excess and prevent him from sweating. Put in bed the essential blankets and control your natural tendency to excess shelter him while sleeps. Remember that you will provide the best comfort if he gets to have the minimum possible itching.

Reduce the presence of irritants and allergens (allergy triggers)     ▲

- Do without carpets and curtains. Use plastic covers for mattresses.
- Scrupulously clean house, eliminating possible environmental dust, especially in the child's room
- Avoid using aerosols (environmental, insecticides, furniture cleaners, etc.) and snuff smoke
- Ventilate the kitchen and avoid the presence of the child while preparing food
- Use artificial plants preferably
- Avoid allergens animal (dog, cat, rabbit, other pets)

Reduce the reasons for stress in children     ▲

Provide the quietrst and pleasant environment that you can. If the child's age allows it, teach him to relax.