Children with eczema can be fussy and difficult, and often they are unable to stop themselves from scratching and rubbing at their skin. Parents must keep children distracted with activities that keep hands busy, to prevent flare-ups and more discomfort. This can be enormously stressful and frustrating for parents during the day. Parents often have other children they must care for, in addition to meeting the sometimes constant needs of the child with eczema. Often, friends, relatives and strangers do not understand why the child is scratching so much, why the child's skin looks irritated, or why the parents may seem inordinately stressed, anxious or tired. And at night, for many parents, things can be even worse. There are often long, sleepless nights, as parents watch their children suffer itching that can seem intolerable.
Later in life, a parent must manage the challenges of potential social difficulties that a child with a very visible disease may experience. The child may need extra support from family and friends to overcome these challenges.
It is painful, as a parent, to watch your child suffer. Good communication with a doctor and with a partner can be enormously helpful. Additionally, there are support groups that may provide advice and relief to parents living with the emotional stress of parenting a child with eczema.
Cosmetic concerns
Eczema affects the most visible organ in the human body: the skin. And though we would all prefer not to believe it, it remains true that people tend to judge others based on appearance. Eczema, which in severe cases can cause skin to become thickened, scaly, or leathery, can become a terrible source of embarrassment and shame for teenagers and adults alike. Children can be stigmatized and picked on at school, and adults can be met with employment challenges based on their appearance. Sexual and romantic relations can be affected as well.
