Wet treatment can improve eczema in patients

PORTLAND, Maine(NEWS CENTER) -- It's considered one of the most common skin conditions among children, affecting one in 1 in 10 youngsters. Eczema is not dangerous but causes red, swelling and itchy skin.

A Portland doctor who specializes in treating eczema is conducting a study in an effort to determine the most effective treatment for the condition.

Dylan Wike has suffered from Eczema since he was a young child, it showed up in patches of red and irritated skins behind his knees, arms and wrists. But then early last fall it spread to his face.

"I had stuff all over my face so and they were saying it was herpes and stuff. Yeah a lot of people were making fun of me," said Wike.

The flare up was the last straw on a long and difficult journey to properly treat the skin condition. Dylan's mom decided to takehim to Dr. Ivan Cardona, an allergist and immunologist.

According to Dr. Cardona one in every 10 kids develops eczema. the symptoms include itchy, dry red skin with small bumps. that usually turns up on the hands, neck, face and legs, but it can occur anywhere on the body and can get worse if scratched.

'It's just plain uncomfortable to the point where it's painful and they get open sore and that can get infected and they are scratching until it's bleeding,' said Dr. Cardona..

He says allergies and environmental factors can trigger eczema. Dylan ended up being allergic to dust mites and pet dander. Dylan's Mom cleaned the house, furniture and moved the family dog to another area of the house. Dr. Cardona also recommended that Dylan take long bath several times a day then applying a moisturizer and wrapping his body in gauze and wet clothes. He has used this treatment with dozens of other patients including these children.

The wet treatment has brought incredible results. Does frequent bathing improve eczema in children? Some doctors advise patients to stay away from water altogether. Dr. Cardona along with another resident from Maine Medical Center have launched a study to give parents a clear answer what is best for their child when it comes to bathing.

They are currently looking for patients from six months to 11 years olds to participate in the study. So far some of the results have been positive. Both physicians hope to publish their finding in the in the next year and half.

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Wet treatment can improve eczema in patients