Wear open-weave, loose fitting cotton or cotton blend garments. Wash new clothes before wearing. Reduce indoor allergens, particularly dust mites, by washing bedding in hot water, removing rugs, stuffed furniture, stuffed toys and curtains where possible. When doing housework, wear plastic or rubber gloves or latex gloves lined with cotton. Avoid stress, which can add to flare-ups.
Patients often feel angry and frustrated by the chronic itching.
Parents need to find ways to let children with atopic dermatitis express feelings. Professional counseling may help. Know that with proper treatment the condition can be controlled and it will improve with age. Many methods to reduce stress are available. If a link with food has been diagnosed, eliminate it from the patient's diet.