Eczema treatment: Allergy link KEY to beating painful skin condition affecting 15m Brits – Express.co.uk

It is important for both patients and healthcare professionals to understand the connection between atopic eczema and allergy

Amena Warner

Up to 15 million adults and children are suffering from eczema in the UK.

The dry, itchy skin rash costs the NHS almost 170 million each year.

Eczema is common in babies but also affects older children and adults.

Researchers believe there is a vital link between allergies and developing eczema.

Amena Warner, Head of Clinical Services at Allergy UK, said: It is important for both patients and healthcare professionals to understand the connection between atopic eczema and allergy.

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Eczema is a common symptom which can be triggered by irritants and allergens as well as from a genetic tendency of dry skin. As well as a symptom, it can also be the gateway to allergic sensitisation, so when the body is exposed to that allergen there is a potential for a reaction.

Experts say its important to protect the skin barrier to help reduce the risk of allergen sensitivity.

If you have an intense itch or areas of dry, sensitive, red or inflamed skin, youre advised to see a doctor.

Warner said: Having an accurate and timely diagnosis is important for effective management of eczema and maintaining the skin barrier.

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Resist the itch - Eczema is almost always itchy no matter where it occurs on the body and although it may be tempting to scratch affected areas of the skin, this should be avoided as much as possible

Around 1.7 million school children are already suffering eczema in the UK.

Its estimated between 50-70 per cent of children with early onset eczema are sensitised to at least one allergen.

Natalie Newman, mother of Calum, aged 5, said early diagnosis can significantly reduce suffering.

She explained: Calums multiple allergies started from a really early age. His eczema was one of the key indicators that something wasnt right.

It took a long time for us to get a diagnosis and Calum now has to avoid 15 foods plus reduce exposure to multiple airborne triggers. His eczema still causes him a lot of distress when he experiences a bad flare up.

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I cannot stress how important it is for new parents to track their childs symptoms and discuss them with their GP.

Eczema isnt just a painful and irritating condition, it can also affect self-confidence.

Over half (52 per cent) of adults have head and neck eczema, while 50 per cent have it on their hands, all areas that are easily visible.

Allergy UK recommends using emollient on skin even when eczema isnt currently present, to keep in moisture and prevent any future flare ups.

You can also try cutting out certain foods like cows milk and wheat to help with the condition.

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Eczema treatment: Allergy link KEY to beating painful skin condition affecting 15m Brits - Express.co.uk