Atopic eczema can cause several complications, which can be physical or psychological. Possible complications are explained below.
Infection
As atopic eczema can cause your skin to become dry and cracked, the risk of getting a skin infection is increased. The risk is higher if you scratch your eczema and if you do not use treatments as advised.
Bacterial infections can cause more severe symptoms. The most common type of bacteria that infects atopic eczema is Staphylococcus aureus. If your skin becomes infected with Staphylococcus aureus, it can make your eczema worse, causing:
- increased redness
- fluid that oozes out of the cracked skin and crusting where the fluid dries
- a high temperature and a feeling of being unwell
Your skin will be unable to heal naturally from this type of infection and you will need to take antibiotics (see Atopic eczema - treatment).
Eczema herpeticum
It is possible to have an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus, which normally causes cold sores. This can develop into a serious condition called eczema herpeticum. Symptoms of eczema herpeticum include:
- areas of painful eczema that quickly get worse
- groups of fluid-filled blisters that break open and leave open sores on the skin
- a high temperature and generally feeling unwell, in some cases
Contact your GP immediately if you think you or your child may have eczema herpeticum. If you cannot contact your GP, call NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or go to your nearest hospital.
Psychological effects
As well as affecting you physically, atopic eczema may also affect you psychologically.
Preschool children with atopic eczema are more likely to have behavioural problems than children who do not have the condition. They are also more likely to be more dependant on their parents compared with children who do not have the condition.
Bullying
School children may experience teasing or bullying if they have atopic eczema. Any kind of bullying can be very traumatic and difficult for a child to deal with. Your child may become quiet and withdrawn. Explain the situation to your child's teacher and encourage your child to tell you about how they are feeling.
The National Eczema Society provides information about regional support groups, where you may be able to meet other people living with atopic eczema.
Also see the Live Well section about bullying.
Sleep disturbance
Research suggests that sleep-related problems are very common among young children with eczema.
A lack of sleep may affect your child's mood and behaviour. It may also make it more difficult for them to concentrate at school, which may lead to them falling behind with their work. Again, it is important to let your child's teacher know about their condition so that they can take this into consideration.
During an eczema flare-up, your child may need to take time off from school. This may also affect their ability to keep up with their studies.
Self-confidence
Atopic eczema can affect the self-confidence of both adults and children. Children may find it particularly difficult to deal with their condition, which may result in them having a poor self-image.
If your child is severely lacking in confidence, it may affect their ability to develop their social skills. Support and encouragement will help boost your child's self-confidence and give them a more positive attitude about their appearance.
Speak to your GP if you are concerned that your child's eczema is severely affecting their confidence.
