Food Allergies vs. Eczema??

Hi friends!  So recently my son was diagnosed with severe eczema that we were told from our pediatrician is a condition he was born with, although it may subside and gradually "go away" as he grows older.  I've never had eczema or known anyone with it, so I definitely had to do a little research.

It wasn't until one afternoon Roman's skin was SO blotchy, red, itchy, bumpy (you name it), where I

thought- okay this has to be more than just eczema.  I took him to the doctor and sure enough they were puzzled as to what it was.  He suggested seeing an allergist, where they did blood work and lo and behold Roman has many of the most common food allergies.
Wheat, Milk, Soy, Eggs, & Peanuts.
 YIKES!  I couldn't believe it!  The poor child has been eating ALL of this since he came out of the womb!

What I learned was that eczema is often times directly related to food allergies.  Understanding the connection can really help you manage your child's condition, and save them from the excessive scratching! And don't hesitate to get your baby allergy tested if you feel like it is more than just a normal rash or small irritation!

And if your child does have an extreme list of food allergies like Roman, you can go to this great resource I found to see recipes, books, information, etc.  They even had helpful print-outs to take to the grocery store when shopping the ingredient lists of packaged foods. Check it out!  I hope this is helpful!

http://community.kidswithfoodallergies.org/pages/community

How to Avoid Allergy Triggers to Prevent Eczema Flare-Ups

To manage eczema, you need to moisturize daily and use recommended medication as directed by your health care provider. Avoiding allergy triggers can also help you prevent flare-ups. 

• Keep an eczema journal. This can help you track your symptoms and identify eczema triggers.
• Stay away from skin irritants. Common irritants include wool, soaps and detergents, perfume, chemicals, sand, and cigarette smoke.
• Avoid allergens. Pollen, mold, animal dander, dust mites and other allergens may trigger eczema flares. Avoid these substances by using dust-proof mattress and pillow covers, removing carpeting, avoiding contact with animals, and staying indoors when pollen counts are high.
• Consider food allergies in children. If you suspect you child has food allergies, ask about having your child tested. Children need a wide range of foods to grow healthy and strong, so don't limit your child's food choices without first talking with your doctor.   * From WebMD