Parents 'should seek help for childhood eczema'

30th March 09

Category: Education

Children with skin eczema should be taken to a healthcare professional so that they receive the best possible help, an expert has advised.

Margaret Cox, chief executive of the National Eczema Society, said that the condition could lead to low self-esteem in later life and that parents should be careful not to ignore the problem.

"It won't go away on its own. I would say get to your doctor and treat it," she urged.

"Some people find complimentary therapies helpful, be it homeopathy; under the proper conditions Chinese herbs – though obviously not for a baby. Hypnotherapy for older children, maybe, around the itch [is a good idea]."

Ms Cox added that diet and proper nutrition are essential for children with eczema, as the link between food intake and the condition is often "overemphasised".

Around one-fifth of children in the UK have eczema. It comes in many different forms and is not contagious.