Understanding Eczema and Its Allergy Connection
Eczema, a troublesome skin condition marked by itching, redness, and rashes, often occurs during childhood, though some don't grow out of it. One of the beliefs about eczema is that it is often an early indication of allergies or perhaps a physical manifestation of them. While there isn't any confirmed medical correlation, allergies and eczema often coexist. Here are some of the things that you should know about eczema if your child is showing signs of this rash.
Eczema Can Be Genetic
Some of the most recent research that connects eczema and allergies is a study of the filaggrin gene. The studies of this gene show that when filaggrin is lacking in your skin, it can leave the skin more susceptible to conditions like eczema. Filaggrin protects your skin against allergens and germs, which is an important role for this protein. Given the protection that this protein provides, it is easy to see how a deficiency can contribute to eczema.
Eczema Can Worsen Allergy Sensitivities
Eczema makes your skin vulnerable because it damages the surface layer, which includes oils and other natural protections. This can cause your skin to be more sensitive to any allergens in the area. In addition, repeated exposure to allergens once your skin is vulnerable can actually lead to increased sensitivity, which may actually worsen your allergies and the eczema condition.
Eczema Can Help You Identify Allergens
If your child has eczema, you can often use the rash breakouts to identify the allergens that are causing the rashes. Start by creating a log of everything that your child eats day by day and include a note of every rash breakout or eczema flare-up. Note the severity of each one, too. By tracking everything, you have a single point by which to evaluate the effects of every food your child eats. If rashes appear several times after eating the same food, you can assume that the food in question is a potential allergen and limit or avoid it.
Eczema Should Prompt Allergy Testing
Because of the frequent correlation between eczema and allergies, you should talk with your child's pediatrician about allergy testing if eczema rashes have become a problem. This testing may make it easier for you to identify some of the most common triggers, reducing the frequency of flare-ups.
By working with your child's pediatrician and a skilled dermatologist, you can not only treat eczema flare-ups but also try to keep them at bay. Look for a dermatology clinic in your area.