Course Overview

Eczema is a common condition in children. It is so common that people have given it a few names: Eczema (name most people use); Dermatitis; Atopic eczema or Atopic dermatitis.When a child has eczema, there are many underlying factors that may play a role in what causes it. Determining the underlying cause is a big part to finding the treatment solution. Because the skin plays a key role in acting as a barrier (via the lungs and wei Qi), keeping out germs and other things that can harm children, when eczema develops, the skin’s ability to act as a barrier diminishes.

A poor skin barrier causes the skin to lose water easily, which is why a child’s skin becomes so dry. A poor skin barrier also lets in irritants, potential allergens, bacteria, and viruses more easily.There is also a problem with the immune system, which leads to the redness and itching that we see when a child has eczema. Learn how to construct a comprehensive treatment plan for parents through: (a) Acupuncture, Herbs and diet therapy, (b) Skin care (baths and moisturizers, (c) Medicines (as needed), (d) Coping Strategies (manage itch, stress, and other issues), (e) Trigger avoidance (to prevent flares).

Course Objectives

• Understand the definition of eczema and the many ways it presents in clinic.
• Learn about the significance of accumulation of phlegm-damp in the skin and heat obstruction and spleen dysfunction.
• Gain an insight into understanding the symptoms of eczema: ‘hot skin’ – local stagnation with underlying cold, dry or rough skin, itching (due to wind stuck in the skin), mental aspects of eczema (anxiety and worry).

Course Outline

0 hrs - 15 minIntroduction – overview of eczema from a TCM and western perspective. Phlegm-damp in the skin, heat obstruction and spleen dysfunction.

15 min - 30 minSymptoms of eczema: ‘hot skin’ – local stagnation with underlying cold. Dry / rough skinned eczema and blood deficiency.

30 min - 45 minItching and mental aspects of eczema (anxiety and worry). Case discussion: acupuncture point combinations and herbal formulas.

45 min - 1 hrsSummary and close.