Prevent Skin Asthma now

Skin asthma also known as atopic eczema or dermatitis, is an itchy, chronic skin condition that can develop early in childhood, and may persists until adult life. Some kids may also develop allergic rhinitis or even bronchial asthma. These two conditions, like skin asthma, involve hyper-reactivity of the persons immune system. All three often have a genetic component. There are times when the child is symptom-free. If exposed to trigger factors, the condition may flare up and require medication. Mild symptoms may not make an impact on his daily activities. but severe outbreaks may disrupt his schooling and sleep, and even affects his psychological and emotional well being. First, identify the trigger factors. Then teach him, family members, and caregivers to avoid these at all costs. The severity of the reaction needs to be assessed by a dermatologist. He will guide you as to initial remedies, depending on the degree of the flare up.

Potential Trigger Factors

1. Irritants = wool or synthetic clothing, soaps, detergents, perspiration, disinfectants, topical antimicrobial.
2. Inhalant allergens = House dust, mites, animal dander, cockroach, pollens, molds.
3. Contact allergens = Preservatives in topical medications, metals, latex.
   
4. Food = Cow's milk, eggs, peanuts, wheat, soya, fish and shellfish.
5. Environmental factors = Hard water, cooking with gas, proximity to rad traffic, environmental tobacco smoke.
6. Climate = Extreme temperature and humidity, and seasonal variation in the pattern of atopic eczema.
   

Treatment and Preventions

• Usually, emollients in the form of crams, lotions, and gels keep moisture in, and protect the commonly dry skin of patients with dermatitis. These are mostly over the counter preparations. These also keep irritants away by forming a barrier between the skin and the potential trigger factors.
• If the break out is more severe, your dermatologist may prescribed the use of mild but potent corticosteroids to be applied on the skin one to two times daily. Treatment is usually extended for about 48 hours. If the skin gets infected due to scratching, the doctor might prescribe additional antibiotics.
• Some kids respond to anti-allergy medications. These may be tried for a week or two, provided that it does not cause sleepiness during daytime.
• More serious conditions require extended or additional treatment. Medications that suppress the immune reaction of the skin may be prescribed. In difficult cases, bandaging, photheraphy, and systemic treatments are given.

Education is your first line of defense. Teach your kids how to avoid trigger factors, identify outbreaks, choose first line medication, and learn when and how long to use it. When all else fails, consult your doctor.