Kids, ACEs and Eczema: How to Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Eczema is one of the mysteries of the medical world. If you haven’t heard of it, you’ve probably seen it. It’s an itchy, scaly rash – one that can keep children (and adults) awake at night.
Another name for it is atopic dermatitis, meaning that you develop certain allergic hypersensitivities that show up as skin disorders.
And even kids with mild or inactive eczema may be more likely to sleep poorly than children who don’t have the skin disorder, according to a new study from the United Kingdom.
In research involving nearly 14,000 children, the scientists found kids with mild eczema were 40% more likely to sleep badly and that the odds increased to 85% for those with severe eczema.
Kids, ACEs and sleep
What does eczema and sleep have to do with children who’ve gone through Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), such as abuse or neglect?
Quite a bit, as it turns out. AT least one group of researchers has linked ACEs and childhood poverty to an increased risk of eczema, asthma and allergies.
And other research shows children with trauma and toxic stress from ACEs are more likely to have sleep problems that continue into their adult years. If these ACEs-related sleep problems are compounded by eczema, kids may be more likely to suffer from problems related to sleep deprivation, including increased aggression, anxiety and emotional problems.
What you can do
Moisturize dry skin. This can help relieve relentless itching that keeps kids awake. But – with eczema there’s often a “but” – check with your doctor about the best kind to use on your child. Lots of moisturizers have ingredients that cause allergies in some people, especially those with eczema. Here’s a list of common allergens in moisturizers to watch out for – and one that Consumer Reports says to avoid at all costs.
Avoid harsh fabrics. One hundred percent cotton clothes and PJs are better than wool or polyester, both of which can cause itching.
Avoid soaps, detergents, and lotions that contain harsh chemicals. Look for the words “fragrance free” and “hypoallergenic.”
Give your child a bath before bed and moisturize right afterwards. Bathing will help prevent infections.
Develop a relaxing bedtime routine. Stress can cause eczema flare-ups, so create a consistent time for bedtime and conversation. Bedtime routines that include storytime and conversation with parents are one of the best “anchoring rituals” for kids with ACEs, providing comfort and security on a daily basis.
References
Cromer, L.D. (n.d.). Stress, Adversity, and the Health of Young Children Living in Poverty. University of Tulsa: School of Community Medicine.
Dresden, D. (2018, October 29.) How to Stop Eczema Itching at Night. Medical News Today. Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323505.php
Ramirez, F.D., Chen, S., and Langan, S.M., et al. (2019, March 4). Association of Atopic Dermatitis with Sleep Quality in Children. JAMA Pediatrics. Retrieved from https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/fullarticle/2725861
Zirwas, M.J., and Stechschulte, S. (2008, November.) Moisturizer Allergy: Diagnosis and Management. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology 1(4).
