Eczema = The Bane of My Existence

My poor youngest daughter scratches and itches her way through every single day—she has it bad, on her face, the crooks of her elbows and knees, and on her tummy. We've been to the doc, who recommended some prescription cortisone and slathering her up with Eucerin and Aquaphor multiple times per day. And getting rid of the fragranced laundry detergent. But still, my daughter itches like mad.

I've tried looking up information online, but the info's pretty spotty. It might be a food allergy—or it might not. It could be an allergy to pets—or it might not. It could be caused by heat—or by cold. I don't even know where to begin with trying to eliminate items from her diet or surroundings to try to get this under control.

Some moms have been recommending wrapping the spots in plastic wrap after applying the creams, but I'm worried about the suffocation factor. Some suggest some hippie type creams that seem a little out there. And there's always the new prescriptions, like Elidel, though there's evidence they cause cancer. Personally, I'd rather she has the itch.

I just feel so terrible for her when I see her going nuts with the itching. We'll be calling the doc tomorrow to see if he has any other bright ideas. Because I don't think she—or we—can take too much more of this.

Comments

[Darlene]

Just saw your blog for the first time thru No Hands But Ours.

I have two bio kids who had eczema and food allergies when they were younger.
I have formed a group Eczema Parents Circle at yahoo groups, and you are welcome to join for support if you wish.

It can be very frustrating figuring out what to do to relieve the itch.

[Shelley]

Our son has this too. We are due to see the dermatologist in October. Hopefully she'll have something new to try. Post to the blog if you find a cure! :)

[Tonggu Momma]

We struggled with this SO MUCH our first two years home. It is so very frustrating, isn't it? So many different triggers, so many different treatments. Sigh. The Tongginator's is finally *mostly* under control now, but it was all trial and error to get to this point. I hope the doctor can help.