School Health Service

Eczema

Eczema is a skin condition which causes dry, red and itchy skin. The skin can get sore and broken when scratched.

It’s important that your child’s eczema is managed well at school.

Make sure that your child has an individual healthcare plan and that this is updated every year. Make sure that any medication or creams that are kept in school are in date.

The facts about eczema

  • Eczema tends to be more common in children but it can develop in adults too
  • Atopic eczema is the most common form of eczema
  • It can run in families and often occurs together with allergies
  • Many things can make eczema worse and these are called eczema triggers.

Symptoms

Eczema often affects hands, elbows, knees, the face and scalp. Symptoms include:

  • Itchy, dry, cracked skin
  • Sore, red, inflamed skin.

Treatment

  • Avoid scratching
  • Avoid eczema triggers
  • Emollients
  • Topical corticosteroids
  • Wet wraps.

Your GP can help you to find the best treatment for your child’s eczema.

This information has been provided by our school nurses and NHS Choices.