ECZEMA BASICS

An overview of eczema and treatments for teachers, parents, and anyone interested in learning about eczema.

Basic Eczema facts

• Eczema is an umbrella term for different types of dermatitis (skin conditions characterised by itching and rash).

• The most severe and long-lasting type of eczema is atopic dermatitis (AD), which usually starts in early childhood.

• Symptoms include dry skin, itching, rash, and sometimes crusting and sores.

• Eczema tends to come and go; periods of severe symptoms are called “flare-ups.”

• Eczema is not contagious; it is a skin disease that tends to run in families and can be triggered by seasonal changes, environmental irritants, and allergens like dust or foods.

• While there is no cure for eczema, it can be managed.

Treatments for Eczema

• Emollients (moisturisers) keep dry skin moisturised and help reduce itching. If your classroom has one or more children with eczema, ask their parents to provide a jar of emollient or cream to be applied during the school day. If a jar of cream is utilised, make sure a plastic spoon, scoop, or other tool is used to get the cream, rather than fingers or hands that can contaminate the product (fingers should never go directly into a jar). However if you use Ezerra Cream contamination will never be an issue as our products are designed in an easy to use squeeze tube.

• Antihistamines are medications children may take at night to reduce itching and encourage sleep. If students with eczema are drowsy during the day, antihistamines may be the reason.

• Antibiotics are sometimes needed to control skin infections. If children need to take antibiotics during school, be sure to ask parents to provide detailed, written instructions on taking them (when to take the medication, with or without food).

• Bandages are sometimes necessary to protect skin when eczema is particularly severe, such as when skin is infected. Ask parents for advice on keeping bandages tidy.

Remember to always consult your doctor for the most appropriate method of eczema treatment.

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