This post is sponsored by Med-IQ. As always, all opinions are my own and not influenced by the brand.
I first learned about eczema through a friend in college. Her eczema was so severe she had to take various medications for it. Then one of my kids began showing symptoms of eczema at a younger age. Luckily it’s controllable through diet and lifestyle. But I know how disruptive and uncomfortable eczema can be for many people.
Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) and What Families Should Know
As a parent, it’s important to be more educated about various conditions that can affect our families. I recently had the opportunity to learn more about Atopic Dermatitis, commonly known as eczema from Dr. Lio in partnership with Med-IQ, and I’m excited to share the following information with you today.
What is Atopic Dermatitis?
First of all, eczema is different from other dermatologic conditions. It is characterized by skin inflammation, itchiness and pain on various body surface areas depending on its severity.
Second, Atopic Dermatitis affects persons of all ages, races and demographics. It was once considered a childhood illness, as it affects 10-25% of children. But today we know that it affects everyone including adults. It’s estimated that 5-10% of adults and up to 3% of elderly adults are affected.
Eczema can also be affected by seasonal and geographic differences such as weather, rural vs city life, humidity level, etc. For me personally, I noticed more eczema flare-ups during cold and dry months of winter.
When clinicians are assessing Atopic Dermatitis, they look for what body areas are affected, sleep disturbances as well as pain level.
Moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis affects as many as 1/3 of patients. It’s different from mild-to-moderate eczema because it’s not just a skin disease. It can be systemic in nature and sometimes due to immune dysregulation. It doesn’t go away on its own and there’s no cure. Often there’s a relationship to other allergic reactions such as asthma.
Unfortunately, moderate-to-severe eczema can negatively impact the quality of life. It can interrupt sleep, school, family unit and work. As well as have a negative effect on the affected person’s mental health.
When and where to seek treatment
If you or your family member is affected, it’s recommended to seek treatment by a licensed clinician. While there is no cure, treatment can help with managing symptoms so the negative impact is lessened.
General skincare includes moisturizers, warm baths and avoiding triggers like certain foods and environment. You can also try over-the-counter topical ointments, diet changes and alternative holistic approaches. If symptoms don’t resolve on its own and are severe that it affects your quality of sleep and lifestyle, I recommend you to seek care from a licensed professional.
If you or a loved one is affected by Eczema, we would love for you to take the following survey which can be found here. The goal of this survey is to help us understand the challenges and concerns regarding your or your child’s eczema/atopic dermatitis, your experiences working with healthcare providers to manage this condition, and the barriers to achieve your, or your family member’s, treatment goals. Your responses are anonymous and will be used to develop educational activities that help healthcare providers improve treatment discussions with patients who have eczema/atopic dermatitis.
By taking this brief survey, you will be entered to win one of 10 $100 VISA gift cards!
You can visit my partner Med-IQ to learn more here and here.
