Our Journey With Infant Eczema: 3 Things I Wish I Knew Sooner
When caring for your child with severe eczema you know just how consuming it can be. The constant scratching, the sleepless nights, the endless worry if a food will trigger another spot—it can start to feel like eczema is taking over every part of your life. I’ve been there, and looking back, there are a few things I wish I had known earlier, things that could have saved me from countless moments of stress and frustration.
In this post, I’ll share the three most important lessons I learned along the way that helped me regain perspective on life, even while managing eczema. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck in the cycle of eczema care, I hope these insights can help you find a bit of peace and clarity in your journey.
1. This Eczema Journey Will Take Time
When our child was first diagnosed with eczema, I didn't realize just how long and challenging our journey ahead would be. I didn’t realize how much we would be playing detective and it takes time to manage and treat effectively. I didn’t realize that finding the right treatment plan would require patience and perseverance.
2. This Eczema Journey Will Be a Trial and Error
Another lesson I wish I had realized sooner was knowing that managing eczema involves a lot of trial and error. What works for one child may not work for another, and what doesn’t work may work for another one. It's essential to keep an open mind and be willing to try different treatments, and lifestyle changes. Some days will be better than others, and it's important not to get discouraged when a particular method or product doesn't provide the desired results. Keep experimenting until you find what works best for your child - we found that trying one treatment for a week was enough time to see the effects to determine if we should keep it in our routine or not.
3. This Eczema Journey Will Be Costly - But Not Because of All the Lotions
Eczema can be financially draining, but it won’t necessarily be in the cost of lotions and creams. While the expenses associated with eczema treatments can add up, there are other factors that can contribute to the financial burden. Doctor visits, specialist consultations, allergy tests, and supplements will contribute to the overall cost. Additionally, there may be a need for specialized clothing, bedding, or even home modifications to create a more eczema-friendly environment. While it may feel like “nothing else is more important than my child’s health” know that it’s okay to reprioritize and even hold off on some treatments to ease the financial burden.
Remember, every child's eczema journey is unique. It's crucial to consult with healthcare professionals who can provide personalized advice and treatment plans. By being patient, open to trial and error, and preparing for the financial aspects, you can better navigate the challenges of having a child with severe eczema.