Save Your Child from Eczema

Atopic Dermatitis is the most common skin disease in children. In Bahrain, between 15% and 20% of children have AD.

According to Dr. Husain Mahdi, Consultant Dermatologist at Royal Bahrain Hospital, children often get atopic dermatitis (AD) during their first year of life. Symptoms are the development dry and scaly red patches appear on the skin, usually affecting the cheeks, scalp, and forehead. “In severe cases the itch is so intense that a child cannot sleep.” Says Dr. Mahdi. “The danger is that scratching may lead to a bacterial skin infection.”

A child’s risk of getting AD is increased if any of the family members have AD, asthma, or hay fever. Therefore, because atopic dermatitis can be long lasting, it is important to learn how to take care of the skin. Treatment and good skin care can alleviate much of the discomfort and complications. “Contrary to popular belief, foods no not cause AD, even though some studies suggest that food allergies make AD worse.” Dr. Mahdi advises parents to speak with a dermatologist before keeping certain foods from their children, since certain foods are needed for growth and natural development.

Researchers continue to study what causes this complex disease, and currently they believe that many things interact to cause AD. These things include our genes, where we live, and the way our immune system works.

Treatment cannot cure AD, but it can control AD. A treatment plan often includes medicine, skin care, moisturizers, mild soaps, and lifestyle changes, which can help prevent flare-ups
“A dermatologist will create a treatment plan tailored to the patient’s needs.” States Dr. Mahdi. “Medicine and other therapies will be prescribed as needed to control itching, reduce skin inflammation, treat infection and reduce new lesions.”

However, parents must know that if a child has skin lesions, you must take him or her to see a dermatologist. This is because some skin conditions can look like AD, but without the right diagnosis, the treatment may not work.” 

Dr. Husain Ali Mahdi [BSc, MD, CABD] is a Consultant Dermatologist at Royal Bahrain Hospital’s Royal Aesthetic Center. To book your appointment, call 17246939 or visit www.royalbahrainhospital.com