GPs struggle to advise kids with eczema

GPs are struggling to treat children with eczema and the skin condition has risen by 42 per cent in the last five years.

In a survey of 200 GPs by Stiefel Laboratories, the makers of Oilatum, almost 90 per cent of doctors did not have enough time in appointments to give comprehensive treatment and advice for dealing with eczema.

Stiefel believe that poor compliance to eczema treatment is responsible for most of the misery suffered by those with the condition.

Parents were not given written advice on dealing with eczema, or how to use emollients, further exacerbating the situation.

Margaret Cox from the National Eczema Society said: “we know from the calls we receive to our helpline that many eczema sufferers are unhappy with the advice they receive from their doctor. I understand that GPs are under increasing pressure and time restraints. However, as the primary health professional the majority of eczema sufferers will first consult about their condition, GP’s are in a perfect position to offer crucial advice that could really make a difference to the lives of sufferers.”