2. My child gets teased at school about his eczema. What can I do to help him handle remarks from other kids and adults?

The best way to help your child is to provide a supportive home environment where he/she can feel free to discuss his/her thoughts and feelings. Research has consistently shown that a strong family network, which emphasizes a mutual commitment to deal with all the potential social frustrations associated with eczema, such as teasing, promotes higher self esteem and less psychological strain. Always encourage your child to focus on his/her strengths.

Your child and others will pick up on your cues. Be your child’s advocate, at home and in the community. Talk to your child’s teacher and the other parents about eczema. Ask your child’s doctor if he/she would come to the school and educate the other kids about eczema. There is strength in knowledge and hopefully the kids and adults will be more accepting once they have a better understanding of eczema.

3. Can eczema be a precursor to other allergies?

Yes, atopic dermatitis, commonly known as eczema, can be a precursor for developing other allergic disorders. Approximately 60% of babies with eczema are at risk for developing allergic rhinitis and 50% are at risk for developing asthma, especially in an atopic (allergic) family. So, if your child has eczema, and you have a family history of allergies, it is a good idea to have them evaluated for other allergic disorders.

4. I plan to take my family on vacation this summer. Last year, my daughter had several asthma attacks during our trip. How can we prepare ourselves for planning this year’s trip?

It is very important to be prepared for the worse. Any child with asthma, whether intermittent or persistent, should always have a treatment plan and an understanding of when and how to use “rescue” medication. Prior to going on vacation, your child should meet with her doctor and review her current asthma medications as well as make a treatment plan if she starts having asthma symptoms. Also review with the doctor what triggers she may have encountered on her last trip that she may be able to avoid on this trip.

On the trip, make sure all the medication is properly labeled and stored in a safe, cool location.

5. With summer barbecues, tennis matches and beach volleyball, I plan on being outside as much as possible. I have been told to use insect repellants containing DEET, which can sometimes cause allergies. How can I protect my skin by using DEET, while staying allergy free?

There have been cases of allergic rashes associated with DEET, but overall it is very well tolerated. Before using the product over your child’s entire body, first use it in a small test area on his/her arm to look for any adverse reactions. It is best to use the lowest concentration of DEET possible. A 10-30% DEET concentration offers protection for up to 6 hours. A higher concentration (40-50%) may be required if you are going to be outside for longer periods of time, like camping.

If you child has very sensitive skin, you can spray on the clothing only. Never spray under clothing, on broken skin or on hands of children who tend to put their hands in their mouths. Always wash off your child’s skin with soap and water at night and launder clothes that have been sprayed with DEET. It is not recommended in infants less than 2 months old and in children under six years old, a 10% concentration or less is recommended.

6. Can a mosquito bite cause anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by throat swelling, generalized hives, faintness or wheezing? If so, what should I do?

There have been case reports of anaphylaxis from mosquito bites but fortunately it is very rare. Bite reactions, which are caused by sensitization to the mosquito saliva, commonly cause itchy localized papules which resolve over time.

The most important precautionary measure is avoidance. Avoid mosquito infested areas, wear protective long sleeved clothing, eliminate stagnant water on your property, keep your window and door screens in good condition, avoid scented products and apply insect repellants that contain DEET when necessary.

If you have a known history of anaphylaxis to mosquito bites, you should always carry an emergency kit containing epinephrine (adrenaline). Make sure the kit is stored in a cool place and that the epinephrine has not expired. You should review how and when to use the epinephrine with your doctor. If it is the first time you are experiencing these symptoms, call 911 and go to the emergency room immediately for evaluation.