Eczema
 Also
known as Atopic Dermatitis, this disorder causes the skin to become
dry, itchy and inflamed. There may be oozing or a crusted appearance.
Contact ISDI for educational brochures (also in Spanish). Also,
ISDI offers the program, Eczema Tough Word Tough Disease. Contact
us for more information.
Support:
Be a part of ISDI’s pen pal list.
Eczema in School:
 The
Classroom
One of the first and most important steps to take when it comes
to a child with eczema in school is open communication. Meet with
the teacher(s), school nurse, guidance counselors and possibly
even the principal to provide a better understanding of the disease
and your child.
Eczema can be a difficult condition to handle in the classroom.
The child with eczema may have periods of severe itching and scratching
which may break their concentration. They may be on medication
which may cause some drowsiness making classroom functions difficult.
Scratching
It is almost impossible for a child not to scratch. Due to the
itch there may be long sleepless nights, which may lead to dysfunction
in the classroom. Work with parents and school staff on the best
ways to distract from scratching and classroom disruption. As
a teacher, a casual walk or stand near the child with a gentle
touch could be a kind reminder not to scratch.
Seating
The child with eczema should be seated away from windows and heating
vents. A cotton pillowcase or towel to sit on will minimize irritation
from plastic seats. This could be an option for all students so
as not to cause the child with eczema to feel different.
Classroom Irritants
Certain conditions may cause sensitivity or flares. Classroom
pets, shag carpet and dusty conditions may need to be avoided.
Soap and detergent may also be an issue – this is why communication
is imperative.
Acne
 An
inflammatory skin disease characterized by comedones, papules,
pustules and inflamed nodules.
Contact ISDI for educational brochures.
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Hives (also known as Urticaria)
 Hives
is an outbreak of red bumps or patches called wheals on the skin.
These bumps appear suddenly anywhere on the body and are usually
accompanied with an intense itch. If hives are accompanied by
dizziness, wheezing, difficulty breathing, tightness in chest,
or swelling of the tongue, lips or face, seek immediate medical
attention. These symptoms may be a sign of a serious (anaphylactic)
reaction.
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Occupational Dermatitis
 Occupation
refers to job related; dermatitis meaning inflammation of the
skin. Occupational Dermatitis is often an inflammatory skin reaction
caused by occupational contact factors.
Contact ISDI for educational brochures.
Support: Be a part of ISDI’s pen-pal list.
Poison Ivy
 An
inflammatory allergic rash which develops after contact with the
poisonous plant.
Contact ISDI for an educational fact sheet.
Support: Be a part of ISDI’s pen-pal list.
Psoriasis
An inflammatory skin disease characterized by dry pink scaling
round patches.
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Pyoderma Gangrenosum
 An
uncommon condition characterized by ulcers that start as pustules
at a trauma site. Patients with PG may have involvement
of other organs such as the heart, central nervous system, GI
tract, eye, liver, spleen, bone and lymph nodes.
Contact ISDI for an educational fact sheet.
Support: Be a part of ISDI’s pen-pal list.
Rosacea
 An
inflammatory skin disease characterized by flushing and redness
appearing in the central area of the face. Pimples and Pustules
may appear.
Contact ISDI for educational brochures.
Support: Be a part of ISDI’s pen pal list
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