What department should I go to for pediatric eczema

Children with eczema should go to a pediatrician or dermatologist, and choose the corresponding specialty according to the severity of the condition. Pediatricians have a comprehensive understanding of children's diseases, while dermatologists focus more on skin problems. When necessary, the two departments can work together to solve the problem more effectively. It is recommended to see a doctor as soon as possible for such problems to avoid worsening of eczema or complications.

1. Symptoms and causes of eczema in children

Pediatric eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease in children, characterized by itching, erythema, papules and even exudation. The occurrence of this condition may be related to the following factors:

-Genetic factors: Children with a family history of eczema, asthma or allergies are more likely to develop eczema.

-Environmental stimuli: Dry and cold weather, air pollution, dust mites, etc. can trigger symptoms.

- Personal factors: The skin barrier function is weak, easily irritated, and sensitive to external allergens.

-Dietary factors: Some children with eczema may be allergic to foods such as eggs and milk.

When a child shows the above symptoms, it is necessary to judge the severity of the disease and choose a medical department in time.

2. Choice of medical department

-Pediatrics: If your child not only has eczema but also has other childhood developmental problems, such as feeding difficulties, allergic asthma, or frequent recurrent infections, give priority to seeing a pediatrician, who will comprehensively assess the overall condition.

- Dermatology: If the eczema is severe, such as a wide range of rashes, severe itching, infection (such as pustules, erosions), or no improvement after general treatment, it is recommended to go to the dermatology department. Dermatologists can provide more professional medication plans, such as topical ointments or oral anti-allergic drugs.

-Joint diagnosis and treatment by specialists: Children with other allergic diseases (such as allergic rhinitis) may need joint diagnosis and treatment by pediatrics and dermatology to ensure effective results.

3. Home care and dietary adjustment for pediatric eczema

In addition to seeing a doctor, home care and dietary modifications also play a key role in alleviating eczema:

- Reasonable care: Keep the child's skin clean and moisturized, avoid using detergents containing irritating ingredients, and try to wear clothes made of soft and breathable materials.

-External moisturizing: Use a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizer such as petrolatum or a specific baby eczema cream daily to repair the skin barrier function.

-Diet management: Observe whether your child is allergic to specific foods. Under the doctor's advice, you can temporarily avoid highly sensitive foods such as milk and eggs, and supplement nutrition according to the doctor's instructions.

4. Common treatments for pediatric eczema

Clinical treatment of eczema aims to relieve itching and repair the skin. Common methods include:

-Topical medications: For mild to moderate eczema, low- or medium-effective hormonal ointments (such as desonide cream) can be used externally; non-hormonal ointments such as pimecrolimus ointment can be used as a long-term option.

-Anti-allergy medications: If itching is severe, an oral antihistamine (such as loratadine or cetirizine) may be given.

- Treatment of infection: If the skin lesions are infected, your doctor may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics (such as mupirocin ointment).

During treatment, you need to follow the doctor's instructions according to the severity of your condition and avoid blindly using medications that may cause adverse reactions.

Eczema has a significant impact on children's skin and quality of life, so it is necessary to make a scientific judgment and choose a pediatrician or dermatologist. In home care, paying attention to diet and skin care can help improve the condition. If symptoms persist or worsen, follow-up visits should be made in a timely manner to ensure that the treatment is effective.