How to treat eczema rashes on the face and body despite using steroid cream?
Patient: hi my son (11yrs) woke up Tuesday morning with an itchy red rash on his cheek. by the end of the day, the rash had spread slightly to his forehead, ear, neck, chest and inside elbow crease of one arm. the day before, he said he felt like he was coming down with a cold. about 6 monts ago, the same thing happened - brought him to pediatrician, was told it was most likely eczema, and they gave us a topical steroid cream. after a week, I brought him to dermatologist - said the same, but she gave us a 2.5% hydrocortisone cream (said the steroid is too strong for his face don t use it). anyway - so back to current day, i m assuming its a flare up of this eczema rash again. today, the rash is even worse, his cheek & one ear is swollen and hot. there are little patches of the rash on other parts of his body, stomach & legs in addition to the others I ve listed already. none of them are as bad as his face and ear, yet. I guess my question is, does this sound like eczema? can eczema cause swelling and be warm to the touch? I called the dermatologist, but of course its my luck they are closed until Tuesday for Labor Day holiday. Doctor: Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.  I am indeed sorry that you haven't been able to get urgent attention for your son. It is now over a month since you asked this question. If you are still interested in knowing what to do, I will offer a reply. Yes, this is eczema, and it should be treated with moisturizers, and if necessary, steroids applied topically. The child may also need an antihistaminic to reduce itching and the rash. This last medicine would need to be used orally (by mouth).  Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.