The Eczema Link

What is Eczema?

Eczema on the forearm of a young child.

Eczema is a form of dermatitis, an inflammation of the upper layers of the skin. The symptoms of eczema include redness, itching, dryness, flaking, blistering, cracking, bleeding or oozing. Areas of the body commonly affected by eczema include the face, chest and skin crease areas such as elbows and knees.

There are a number of potential factors which explain why a person develops eczema, the most important being a genetic predisposition (i.e. family history). Diet and other lifestyle habits may influence the severity and recurrence of eczema rashes.

Eczema can severely dry out the skin so it is extremely important that eczema sufferers keep the affected area well moisturised. Specialised eczema creams and ointments (some of which contain steroids and are available by prescription) can promote healing and help the affected area maintain its natural moisture. Antihistamines may also provide some relief from scratching.

Eczema and Peanut Allergy

While eczema has long been known to be within the spectrum of allergic disorders, scientists are only now beginning to understand how important the link really is. A recent study showed that 90% of children with peanut allergy have current eczema or a history of previously suffering from eczema. While a child with eczema will not necessarily go on to develop a peanut allergy (or other food allergies), a diagnosis of eczema places a child at a high risk for peanut allergy - 20% of babies diagnosed with eczema or egg allergy will go on develop allergy to peanut before the age of 5.

Eczema and peanut allergy are both part of the lifetime pattern of allergic disorders that is known as the "Allergic March".

Click here to learn more about the Allergy March...

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