Contents
What are the symptoms of atopic eczema?
Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, results in dry, itchy, red patches that can lead to scabs. This chronic condition of genetic origin evolves in spurts. Hypersensitive skin reacts quickly if the child eats certain foods, in the presence of mites, or when applying cosmetic products … Fortunately, eczema usually goes away around 5 years old without leaving scars, and recurrences are rare. Note, however, that it persists in some adults with significant atopic land, and then occurs in “flare-ups”, for example during episodes of stress.
On a daily basis, we treat the skin symptoms of the child fighting against dry skin and itching: we apply the emollient cream, we space the baths and we dry carefully, patting gently, we prefer cotton clothes… and we take advice from the pediatrician.
Treat eczema with Chinese medicine
Ancient Chinese medicine, acupuncture is based on the concepts of positive energy Yang, and negative energy Yin.
It is an alternative medicine which can be effective in treating eczema in babies and children. It is then used in addition to skin care.
The acupuncture consultation begins with questioning et a “classic” clinical examination. Then, the acupuncturist proceeds to thepulse test of the child (12 in total, located at the wrist). An essential exam in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), just like the language exam, to choose which points to stimulate. The skin is dependent on the energy of the lung in TCM, and the stimulation of the acupuncture point to overcome the eczema will be rather on the forearm of the child.
Note that studies are lacking to prove the real effectiveness of acupuncture against eczema. The few studies carried out on this subject mainly reportdecreased itchings, which is in itself a good thing.
How is an acupuncture session for a baby or a child?
« In babies, no question of needle ! The acupuncturist uses a sesame seed or a tiny metal ball that he applies with a band-aid to the acupuncture point. For older children, the needles are very small, and we do not leave them on the skin », Explains Dr. Jean-Pierre Laurens, acupuncturist.
Several acupuncture sessions are needed to treat eczema.