Neurodermatitis in Children: Course and Treatment during Growth

Hello dear parents, grandparents, aunts & uncles! 👋

If your child suffers from atopic dermatitis, you probably have a lot of questions about the course of the disease and the treatment options. In this article, we take a look at how atopic dermatitis in children changes over time and what you can do to help your child.

If you are not yet familiar with the basics of atopic dermatitis in babies, we recommend that you first read our article " Atopic dermatitis in babies: causes, symptoms and first aid ".

How does neurodermatitis change over time?

Although many children grow out of atopic dermatitis, the disease can change over time:

• Babies (under 1 year) : Eczema often occurs on the cheeks, forehead or scalp.
• Toddlers : The rash may spread to the knees, elbows, and diaper area.
• Older children and adolescents : Eczema often appears in the crooks of the elbows, behind the knees, on the neck, or on the insides of the wrists and ankles.

As children age, their skin often becomes scaly and dry. It may also become thicker, darker, or scarred if they scratch frequently (also known as lichenification).

Long-term treatment of neurodermatitis

The treatment of atopic dermatitis aims to relieve symptoms and reduce flare-ups. Here are some important aspects:

1. Establish a skin care routine :
   Develop a daily skin care routine. Use moisturizing products and look for mild, fragrance-free formulations.
2. Identify and avoid triggers :
   Find out what triggers your child's neurodermatitis. These can be certain foods, substances or environmental factors.
3. Drug treatment :
   In acute phases, creams containing cortisone prescribed by a doctor can help. There are also cortisone-free alternatives such as tacrolimus or pimecrolimus.
4. Natural alternatives :
   Our Grahams Natural products offer a gentle, natural alternative for treating atopic dermatitis. They are specially developed to care for and soothe sensitive children's skin.
5. Adjust your diet :
   If you suspect food allergies, talk to your pediatrician about a possible elimination diet.
6. Stress management :
   Stress can trigger neurodermatitis attacks. Help your child learn relaxation techniques and reduce stress.

Psychological aspects: Support for your child

Neurodermatitis can have not only physical but also psychological effects. Here are some tips on how you can support your child:

• Open communication : Explain to your child in an age-appropriate manner what neurodermatitis is and that it is not contagious.
• Boost self-confidence : Encourage your child to deal with his or her skin condition confidently.
• Dealing with teasing : Prepare your child how to respond to possible comments or questions.
• Establish routines : A consistent routine can help reduce anxiety and stress.
• Relaxation techniques : Practice breathing techniques or simple stretching exercises together.

Tips for everyday life with neurodermatitis

1. Clothing : Choose soft, breathable fabrics like cotton. Avoid scratchy labels and clothes that are too tight.
2. Bathing pleasure : Short, lukewarm baths (max. 5 minutes) can be beneficial. Use moisturizing bath oils and moisturize your skin directly after the bath.
3. Room climate : Ensures a pleasant, not too dry room climate. A humidifier can be helpful.
4. Sports and swimming : Encourage your child to be physically active, but be sure to take good care of the skin after sweating or swimming.
5. Keep fingernails short : Short, smooth fingernails minimize injuries from scratching.

Natural help from Grahams Natural

Our Grahams Natural products are specially developed for the needs of children with atopic dermatitis. They are free from harsh chemicals and support the natural skin barrier:

1. Grahams Natural Body & Bath Oil: Ideal for daily care and bathing.
2. Grahams Natural Baby Eczema Cream: Soothes and nourishes irritated skin.

Try our products and see for yourself how they can help your child. Visit our online shop!

Further information and support

For additional support and information we recommend:

• German Skin and Allergy Aid Association
• German Allergy and Asthma Association
• [Competence Network for Patient Education in Childhood and Adolescence eV]( https://www.kompetenznetz-patientenschulung .