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Eczema through the ages

There is a common misconception that eczema is purely a childhood condition – something that children with simply ‘grow out of’. Unfortunately, all too frequently, this is not the case. For many people, eczema can be a life-long burden, while others may only develop the condition for the first time during their teens or well into adulthood.

Eczema can have a major impact on everyday life for all age groups

Children with eczema may be absent from school on a regular basis and may fall behind with school-work. Disturbed sleep is a particular problem for children with eczema, who are woken in the night by sore, itchy skin. This can lead to lack of concentration and extreme fatigue during the day.

In addition, children with eczema are often made to feel ‘different’ from other friends because of their appearance or because on some occasions they may not be able to take part in activities such as swimming and sports. Frequently they become the target of teasing or even bullying from class-mates.

The teenage years are a period of upheaval and change for most people. Teenagers are often extremely sensitive about their appearance and may find it particularly difficult to cope with the physical effects of eczema. This can lead to problems of low self-esteem and lack of confidence. Studying at school or college may be affected because of concentration difficulties due to lack of sleep or frequent absences due to ill-health or medical appointments.

Stress can exacerbate eczema in some people, making exam times a particular trial for pupils and students with eczema.

Adults with eczema may face discrimination at work because of their skin condition or may need to consider their choice of career carefully since some activities such as catering, nursing or hairdressing can trigger eczema in susceptible people.

Many adults find that personal relationships are affected. Lack of sleep can lead to irritability and lowered tolerance and the external signs of eczema can affect self-esteem which can impact on sexual relations.

Older people are not immune to the effects of eczema. Older, more fragile skin is particularly vulnerable to some forms of eczema.

Eczema can be difficult to cope with at any age but it is never too early or too late to seek treatment. Although there is no known cure for most forms of eczema, a wide range of treatments is available which help to control and relieve the symptoms, allowing those affected to lead a more normal life. The National Eczema Society can advise on the most effective ways of managing eczema for all age groups.

The National Eczema Society
163 Eversholt Street
London
NW1 1BU

Information line: 020 7388 3444 (10am - 4pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 1pm - 4pm Thursdays)


General enquiries tel: 020 7388 4097

 Website: www.eczema.org

 We are indebited to the National Eczema Society for their help in compiling this section.