Atopic eczema

There is a strong link between family history and the development of eczema. Studies have shown that if one parent has an allergy such as eczema, hay fever, asthma or food allergies, the child has a 20 to 40 per cent chance of developing an allergy, rising to 80 per cent if both parents are affected.³ Atopic eczema places a considerable burden on the NHS, accounting for 30 per cent of all dermatological consultations in general practice.⁴

There isn't a single known cause of atopic eczema, but it is thought to occur in genetically susceptible individuals when they are exposed to environmental allergens, including allergens in food or irritants.⁵

Food allergens (most often cows' milk and eggs) are associated with eczema, but it is possible to have a food allergy without eczema, and vice versa.⁵ Other common triggers include house dust mites, pet fur, pollen, moulds, detergents, heat or changes in temperature, and skin infections.⁵

Did you know?

• When moderate to severe eczema develops in the first few months of life, there is an increased risk of also developing a food allergy.⁵
• In the UK, one in five children have atopic eczema, with the highest incidence being before the age of one.¹