Peanut Allergy and Eczema: How Strong Is the Link?
People with eczema may also be sensitised to foods, but the two are not a simple cause-and-effect relationship.
Why they are discussed together
There is some overlap between moderate to severe eczema and food allergy, especially in infants and young children. Peanut is one of the foods that is watched for sensitisation. But eczema is the result of many factors working together, including the skin barrier, environmental irritants, house dust mite and micro-organisms. It cannot simply be blamed on one food.
Skin care is still the foundation
- Use enough emollient (moisturizer) every day, several times a day, and apply it within three minutes of a bath
- Bathe quickly in warm water; avoid water that is too hot and long soaks
- Choose soft cotton clothing to reduce rubbing and sweating
- Use topical treatments as your doctor advises, and go for regular follow-up visits to adjust the plan
Diet changes need a reason
Whether peanut must be avoided long term should be decided by a doctor, based on what actually happens when it is eaten and on test results. Avoiding many foods long term without clear evidence can affect nutrition and make it harder to work out what is causing the symptoms. If eczema covers a large area, weeps, or affects sleep, or if there is slow growth or repeated vomiting and diarrhoea, see a doctor as soon as possible for assessment.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please follow your doctor's instructions.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. If your symptoms affect daily life, please see a doctor.