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Writer's pictureSabona Lemessa

How to treat atopic dermatitis in kids?

Atopic dermatitis kids is a chronic (long-lasting) skin condition. Atopic dermatitis in kids can causes itchy, dry skin. It is a common condition in infants and children. It usually appears between the ages of 3 and 6 months.

What causes atopic dermatitis in kids?

It is unknown what causes atopic dermatitis. Nonetheless, certain things are related to it. They are as follows:

  1. Genes. This skin condition can be handed down from parents to children.

  2. The immune system. An underdeveloped immune system may limit the amount of protection provided by the skin.

  3. External influences. Examples include being in cold weather, bathing in hot water, using soap, and being in dry, hot weather.

Which children are at risk for atopic dermatitis?

A child has a greater chance of having atopic dermatitis if he or she has:

  1. Family members with atopic dermatitis

  2. Allergies

What are the symptoms of atopic dermatitis in kids?

Symptoms may appear and disappear, or they may be present most of the time. Any part of the body could be affected. Symptoms in babies typically affect the face, neck, scalp, elbows, and knees. Symptoms in youngsters typically affect the skin inside the elbows, behind the knees, along the sides of the neck, around the lips, and on the wrists, ankles, and hands. Symptoms may manifest differently in each child. These may include the following:

  1. Skin that is dry and scaly

  2. Itching that is excruciating

  3. Swelling and redness

  4. Skin that has thickened

  5. Face skin that is pale

  6. Tiny, raised lumps that, if touched, can become crusty and leak fluid.

  7. Face, upper arms, and thighs with rough lumps

  8. Darkened skin around the eyes or around the eyelids

  9. Changes in the skin around the lips, eyes, or ears

  10. Red spots that have been raised (hives)

Atopic dermatitis symptoms can mimic those of other medical diseases. Make an appointment for your child to see a doctor for a diagnosis.

symptoms of atopic dermatitis in kids

Atopic dermatitis in child

How is atopic dermatitis diagnosed in children?

Your child’s symptoms and medical history will be discussed with the healthcare practitioner. He or she may also inquire as to whether you or any family members suffer from atopic dermatitis, asthma, or nasal allergens such as hay fever or allergic rhinitis. He or she will also inquire about your child’s allergy complaints. Your child will be examined by the healthcare provider for signs of atopic dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis does not have a particular test. Testing is typically unnecessary, but it may be performed. The following tests may be performed:

Blood studies are performed. Your child’s blood may be tested for immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels. The immune system of the organism produces IgE. It is elevated in the majority of infants with allergies and atopic dermatitis. Other blood studies may be performed as well.

Dermatology examinations. Skin tests may be performed to detect allergies or other skin problems.

How is atopic dermatitis treated in child?

The treatment will be determined by your child’s symptoms, age, and overall health. It will also rely on the severity of the condition. Atopic dermatitis has no known treatment. The treatment’s objectives are to relieve itching and inflammation, add moisture, and prevent infection.

Atopic dermatitis treatment includes:

  1. Avoiding irritants, as directed by your child’s healthcare practitioner

  2. Bathing with a mild cleaner or body wash recommended by your healthcare practitioner

  3. Keeping your child’s fingernails short to avoid scratching, which can lead to skin irritation and illness.

  4. Using the moisturizing lotion recommended by your healthcare practitioner

Our child’s doctor may also recommend medications. They can be used separately or together. The following are the most prevalent treatments for atopic dermatitis:

  1. Cream or salve containing corticosteroids:- The ointment or cream is applied to the epidermis. This is done to alleviate itching and puffiness.

  2. Medicine that contains antibiotics:- To treat an infection, your kid may need to consume liquids or pills by mouth.

  3. Antihistamine:- To relieve itching and promote sleep, your child may need to take this medication before bed. It is consumed orally in the form of liquid or pills.

  4. Cream or lotion that inhibits calcineurin. A cream or ointment is applied to the epidermis. This is done to alleviate itching and puffiness.

  5. Ointments that influence the defense system. Crisaborole cream, which is applied to the epidermis, may be prescribed by the provider.

  6. Phototherapy (light therapy) (light therapy). Light therapy can be performed in the doctor’s clinic or at home.

  7. Immunomodulatory therapy. This is a liquid or pill that is taken orally and effects the immune system. It may be used when other therapies have failed. This medication may have unwanted adverse effects. Your kid will be subjected to regular blood tests to monitor for side effects.

  8. Biological medications. In severe cases, your kid may require a new medication like dupilumab. This medication is administered via injection.

How can I help my child who lives with atopic dermatitis?

There is no treatment for atopic dermatitis. However, it will typically improve or disappear as your child grows older. Your kid may exhibit few or no symptoms at times. And there may be moments when his or her symptoms worsen. This is known as a flare-up. Make sure your child does the following to help avoid flare-ups:

  1. Stays clear from potential triggers. Irritating substances such as wool, soap, or chemicals are common causes. Allergens such as eggs, dust mites, and cat dander are also triggers. Stress is another cause.

  2. It does not irritate the epidermis. Attempt to prevent your kid from scratching. It has the potential to exacerbate symptoms. It can also spread illness.

  3. Has short toenails all the time. To keep your child’s nails short and avoid scratching, trim or file them.

  4. Bathes or showers in tepid, not hot, water. After that, air dry or gently dry the epidermis.

  5. Moisturizers are used. After washing, apply creams or ointments.

  6. Wears comfortable attire. Don’t let your kid wear wool or any other rough fabric.

  7. Keeps you fresh. Keep your child as calm as feasible. He or she may become more uneasy if he or she becomes hot and sweaty.

  8. Does not receive the smallpox immunization. Although it is not a prevalent vaccine, people with atopic dermatitis should avoid getting the smallpox vaccine.

Discuss other methods to help your child’s skin condition with his or her healthcare provider.

Important information about atopic dermatitis in kids

  1. Atopic dermatitis is a chronic (long-lasting) skin disease. It is prevalent in infants and children.

  2. A kid with allergies or family members with atopic dermatitis is more likely to develop the condition.

  3. Common signs include itching, dryness, and redness.

  4. The treatment’s objectives are to reduce itching and inflammation, increase moisture, and prevent infection.

  5. It is critical to avoid triggers in order to manage the situation.

  6. It typically improves or disappears as a child grows older.

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