Tips for Reducing and Calming Eczema Flare Ups at School

Eczema is a skin condition characterized by dry, scaly, itchy skin that can be prone to flare ups or "itching spells". Flare ups can be caused by a number of triggers found in the school environment such as scents, germs, allergens, chemicals and even foods that may not be present in the child's home.

For school age children with eczema, avoiding triggers at school can be challenging, but taking antihistamines could cause drowsiness and affect academic performance.

Below are six tips for decreasing discomfort and uncertainty, and increasing the chances for a great school year

1. Communication is key.

Parents should take the time to fully explain the scope of their child's eczema problem to administrators and classroom teachers. Eczema is not just a rash, and symptoms should be taken seriously by educators.

2. Stress or anxiety can cause flare ups in eczema sufferers.

School-related stress can be a major source of anxiety for students, from fears of other students' comments about the rash or the scabbing that goes with it, to dealing with the general discomfort of the condition. Parents and educators should work together to reduce a student's stress and to ease any concerns that could contribute to flare ups.

3. Pack your student's favorite cream.

Lack of moisture is a major symptom of eczema, and school heating and cooling systems can compound the problem. Be sure your student has constant access to his or her favorite cream for immediate relief of itchy, dry skin that can cause bouts of scratching and interfere with concentration. There are numerous low-priced creams that work well on eczema and are appropriate for use at school.

4. Keep medical records updated.

Each year, the school nurse, teacher, bus drivers and before/after school care providers should be given updates on your child's condition. These updates should include current triggers, new allergies, and current medications and dosages.

5. Cotton - The Fabric of an Eczema Sufferer's Life

Stock your child's school wardrobe with 100% cotton clothes, from shirts to socks and under clothes.

If the school requires a uniform from a specific manufacturer that does not carry 100% cotton, obtain permission from the school to substitute with suitable 100% cotton look-alike items. Breathable, natural fabrics are vital for skin hydration and reducing irritants.

If you cannot find suitable uniform substitutes, consider special underclothes for individuals with eczema to reduce direct contact with synthetic fabrics.

6. Stop a flare up in its tracks.

Finding relief during a flare up varies from one eczema sufferer to the next. Using quick methods of relief may help stop a flare up at school.

Wet wraps can provide immediate relief and keep a flare up from coming back, and only require cool water and paper towels. Distraction is another method to break the itch/scratch cycle. Using parent-provided moisturizers and attempting to calm the student down can also help.

Children with asthma and food allergies are often given special consideration in different school circumstances, such as gym, or where they sit at lunch, in order to control reactions or attacks. Students with eczema should be given the same considerations.

Eczema is a difficult condition to treat and no two individuals will have the same success with the same treatments. By using these tips, however, you can assist your child's teacher with creating an environment that decreases discomfort and distraction and increases your child's ability to concentrate on the subject at hand.