Supporting children, young people and families with eczema

Abstract

Eczema is a complex disease to self-manage, between tackling the flares, following a regular maintenance regimen and avoiding triggers. It also has an impact on all aspects of life of infants, children, young people and their families, from self-esteem to relationships, education and social activities, mainly due to persistent itching and pain, sleep disturbance and emotional distress. Effective treatment of eczema demands good self-management which, if established early on, can lead to considerable improvements in quality of life and adherence to an agreed plan.