We had our 3rd NAET appointment today. Good news is that he cleared from the egg treatment and we have the go ahead to feed him eggs. We'll try that at some point,I'm just not ready. With each treatment his body should desensitize, and that will make me feel more confident. We proceeded with the Calcium treatment today, so we now need to avoid a multitude of foods with calcium for 25 hours which shouldn't be hard since he's already avoiding most, if not all, foods on the list due to his food allergies. We'll be out of town for a couple of weeks, so we'll have to take a break from NAET, but I'm eager to get back and proceed with the program. If we can get any relief from this it would be worth it.
Our doctor was trained by the founder of NAET, Dr. Devi. It's interesting to listen to him tell his story of stumbling upon NAET. Basically he needed to find something to help the autistic and allergic kids in his practice. He did an internet search and NAET was all over the place. He was skeptical, even thought it was "hocus pocus", but says the relief it's brought to the families is proof something is working with NAET. He's currently treating 63 children with NAET, and 60 of them have responded favorably. The other 3 didn't see any difference, but he said they were very high functioning kids on the autism spectrum that didn't have much room for improvement to start with.
We also saw the Ped today, and we have stopped the anti-fungal treatment for now. The doc was very pleased at how clear my son's skin is right now. He thinks the Liver Life and MSM will continue to help remove any toxins in his system, and doesn't want to add anything further to his daily regiment.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Monday, December 21, 2009
2nd NAET Treatment
My son had his second NAET treatment on Friday. This one was treating him for egg and certain protein sensitivities. Basically he put the vial of diluted proteins in his sock so it's in contact with the skin. The the D.O. took a massaging tool to my son's back to stimulate the nervous system. Then we wait for 20 minutes before acupressure is applied to 10 sites and the vial can be removed. We are to steer clear of a variety of items and foods associated with eggs for 25 hours, while periodically rubbing the acupressure sites. The craziest part (if that doesn't sound crazy enough!) is that the D.O. said that after our next appointment we can feed our son egg. The thought terrifies me, as this is a kid that hasn't had egg in any product for at least 18 months. He's IgE positive (level 3) to both whites and yolks, and has had 3 anaphylaxis reactions in his life (not to egg, but to blueberries, peanut, and sunbutter.) But even knowing all this, the doctor was confident that the treatment would successfully desensitize our son. I think I'll wait until after the holidays just to be safe. Our 3rd visit is this Wednesday. Maybe it's just coincidence, but since this treatment my son's constant eczema and hives on his stomach have vanished. I haven't done anything different, but they are gone.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Another Allergist/Asthma Doc
I've been contemplating finding another asthma doc for some time now, as I just feel more comfortable having one in my back pocket if ever needed. The last one didn't buy into the fact that my kid has food allergies that flare his eczema, which is totally insane and infuriating. I also got the sense that he didn't believe that I was doing everything in my power to help my child, which is even more absurd. Anyways, I bit the bullet and took my son to yet another doctor to seek a second opinion on his RAST test and to get a game plan for the epi pen.
I really liked this new doc, he was a bit wacky in a good way and related well with my son. He said he's had dermatologists that didn't believe food could cause eczema, to the point that he has invited them in for food challenges to convince them. No wonder there are so many moms out there feeling like they're "the crazy mom", as that's how they see us. This doc however didn't buy into the yeast theory and outlined a simplified plan that he wants us to follow that eliminates the yeast treatment completely. I'll take that with a grain of salt because I've seen progress. He did agree that we should continue with the probioitcs, multivitamin, D3, and fish oil. Interestingly, he said the Pulmicort .25 has now been found to only have a placebo effect and prescribed .5. However, my son does very well on .25 and I'm not feeling inclined to increase his dosage at this time. The new doc also prescribed Atopiclair Cream which seems to reduce the redness and dryness in the two days that we've used it, and he recommended Elidel which I've been hesitant in the past to use but will try it for a few days to give the Desonide steroid cream a break. As for the black-box cancer warning with the Elidel, he clearly said it was overrated and felt comfortable prescribing it. As for a steroid cream, he recommends Fluticasone as it's the only one that has been tested and approved by the FDA for children.
The new doc explained that we could do food challenges in the office to "clear foods." This means that if my son didn't have a reaction, then we can add it back to his diet to increase the variety of food and nutrition. However I'm leary of this technique due to the fact that I know my son can have one glass of milk and appear fine, it's after 2 or 3 glasses that his skin turns into gritty sand-paper and the eczema flares. So knowing this, why would I allow my son to ingest certain foods? How do we know that an internal reaction/irritation is not being caused before we see it externally? With all that we have going on, I want to take it slow and am not ready for food challenges. Tomorrow starts our first Naet treatment, which I'd like to see through before pursuing another course of action.
I really liked this new doc, he was a bit wacky in a good way and related well with my son. He said he's had dermatologists that didn't believe food could cause eczema, to the point that he has invited them in for food challenges to convince them. No wonder there are so many moms out there feeling like they're "the crazy mom", as that's how they see us. This doc however didn't buy into the yeast theory and outlined a simplified plan that he wants us to follow that eliminates the yeast treatment completely. I'll take that with a grain of salt because I've seen progress. He did agree that we should continue with the probioitcs, multivitamin, D3, and fish oil. Interestingly, he said the Pulmicort .25 has now been found to only have a placebo effect and prescribed .5. However, my son does very well on .25 and I'm not feeling inclined to increase his dosage at this time. The new doc also prescribed Atopiclair Cream which seems to reduce the redness and dryness in the two days that we've used it, and he recommended Elidel which I've been hesitant in the past to use but will try it for a few days to give the Desonide steroid cream a break. As for the black-box cancer warning with the Elidel, he clearly said it was overrated and felt comfortable prescribing it. As for a steroid cream, he recommends Fluticasone as it's the only one that has been tested and approved by the FDA for children.
The new doc explained that we could do food challenges in the office to "clear foods." This means that if my son didn't have a reaction, then we can add it back to his diet to increase the variety of food and nutrition. However I'm leary of this technique due to the fact that I know my son can have one glass of milk and appear fine, it's after 2 or 3 glasses that his skin turns into gritty sand-paper and the eczema flares. So knowing this, why would I allow my son to ingest certain foods? How do we know that an internal reaction/irritation is not being caused before we see it externally? With all that we have going on, I want to take it slow and am not ready for food challenges. Tomorrow starts our first Naet treatment, which I'd like to see through before pursuing another course of action.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
NAET
We're still trying to clear my son's skin after the eczema flare from the caulking 2 weeks ago. This past week he came down with a cold with I'm sure has prolonged his flare-up. He's starting to look better, it's just taking a real long time.
We're continuing the Ketoconzole treatment for another month, and we've added MSM powder and some herbal liver support called Liver Life. Since we're continuing to experience eczema and food sensitivities, our MD has also recommended that we start a NAET program through the DO in his office. We had an impromptu consultation with the DO and we had the opportunity to sit in on a session of another 3 year-old, although his issues were with autism. I'm in the process of researching NAET, Nambudripad’s Allergy Elimination Techniques. This is a non-invasive, drug-free, natural solution to eliminate allergies of all types and intensities using a blend of selective energy balancing, testing and treatment procedures from acupuncture/acupressure, allopathy, chiropractic, nutritional, and kinesiological disciplines of medicine. One allergen is treated at a time, and it's my understanding that there are 15 standard allergens tested in a specific order initially. The mother of the autistic child said she has seen dramatic results in just a few weeks with NAET, to the point she tried it herself for a milk intolerance that has now been 'cured.' I had no idea that the child was even on the spectrum, he seemed as interactive and developed as my own 3 year-old. I also have an acquaintance that once mentioned NAET to me as her son had good results, too. I remain hopeful that we are going to fix this child, or he's going to out grow what ails him. I'll keep you posted as to the NAET that we start on Monday. I hope to be singing its praises from the roof tops, but at the same time I realize this is just another avenue that we need to try.
We're continuing the Ketoconzole treatment for another month, and we've added MSM powder and some herbal liver support called Liver Life. Since we're continuing to experience eczema and food sensitivities, our MD has also recommended that we start a NAET program through the DO in his office. We had an impromptu consultation with the DO and we had the opportunity to sit in on a session of another 3 year-old, although his issues were with autism. I'm in the process of researching NAET, Nambudripad’s Allergy Elimination Techniques. This is a non-invasive, drug-free, natural solution to eliminate allergies of all types and intensities using a blend of selective energy balancing, testing and treatment procedures from acupuncture/acupressure, allopathy, chiropractic, nutritional, and kinesiological disciplines of medicine. One allergen is treated at a time, and it's my understanding that there are 15 standard allergens tested in a specific order initially. The mother of the autistic child said she has seen dramatic results in just a few weeks with NAET, to the point she tried it herself for a milk intolerance that has now been 'cured.' I had no idea that the child was even on the spectrum, he seemed as interactive and developed as my own 3 year-old. I also have an acquaintance that once mentioned NAET to me as her son had good results, too. I remain hopeful that we are going to fix this child, or he's going to out grow what ails him. I'll keep you posted as to the NAET that we start on Monday. I hope to be singing its praises from the roof tops, but at the same time I realize this is just another avenue that we need to try.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Sun Butter Allergic Reaction
I foolishly let me son try a small amount of sun butter for the first time tonight. I should have been more careful given his peanut allergy, and I should have made sure I had a vehicle in case there was an emergency. Soon after eating a small amount I noticed hives/eczema on his legs. I gave him his bedtime dose of Atarax, but an hour later his chest tightened up and he was having an asthma attack (he was saying 'my breathing's stuck.') The albuterol has helped, and I gave him a dose of benedryl as a precaution. I recall a similar experience with a blueberry when he was about a year old, except he vomited and then had an asthma attack. I'm a little worried that since he didn't get sick on the sun butter, and that the remnants are going to linger in his system for a couple of days.
In searching the internet for similar stories, I did find a couple of children with similar reactions. And I found this link describing peanut butter allergies vs. sunbutter allergies: http://doe.sd.gov/oess/cans/nbulletin/2005/april/bulletin.htm
In searching the internet for similar stories, I did find a couple of children with similar reactions. And I found this link describing peanut butter allergies vs. sunbutter allergies: http://doe.sd.gov/oess/cans/nbulletin/2005/april/bulletin.htm
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
More Sensitivities
We've gotten use to the beautiful baby skin around here, but unfortunately eczema has flared it's ugly head twice again. The first time was after eating broccoli. I know better, which is so frustrating! Broccoli is my son's favorite food, and he has tested negative to it (RAST test.) But there must be something during the digestive breakdown that causes him to flare. I mentioned before, but I was told broccoli turns into sulfur in the liver and causes a detox. I have seen this with my own eyes. All three times his sideburn area on his face and knees flare within 24 hours after eating it (not immediately like with the sunscreen.)
Then we had another chemical sensitivity. This time it was to the smell of caulk from re-doing the bath tub. Again, right before our eyes eczema and hives appeared all over his face, arms, and knees. After conversing with two other moms whose children are on anti-fungal treatment, they both say their kids experienced heightened sensitivities to odd allergens during treatment. The good news is it should get better.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
A Year in Eczema Pictures
What a year it's been battling eczema, and the proof is in the pictures. As of this very moment his skin looks great. I pray it stays that way. Here's a quick year-in-review:
Today (Nov 2009) all smiles!
August 2009, covered head to toe in eczema.
Nov 2008, the day after
Nov 2008, the day after steroid treatments ended
for an asthma attack.
Oct 2008, a few days before
Oct 2008, a few days before a major asthma attack. Broke
out in hives/eczema after
eating soy sauce.
Baby Skin!
I can hardly believe it, baby skin has emerged from head to toe! My son's once gritty sandpaper-like skin is gone, and there is not one scratch or scab on him at this time. He has soft, silky baby skin. The kind I'm always so envious to see on other children. I'd say it's a miracle, which it is, but it's also due to a lot of hard work by both him and me. It's a combination of the antifungal treatment, supplements, avoiding food triggers, and diligent skin care regiment. But even though the skin is looking great, the itch is still present, although less persistent from what I can tell. He's mostly itchy now when it's time to sleep, and the itch is primarily on his forehead, scalp, and ankles. I wonder if he just notices it more when he's still with nothing else to focus on? I am hopeful that the itch will soon vanish. I know I mentioned it before, but another mom told me that her son's skin cleared after 6 weeks on the yeast treatment and the itch was the last to go at 8 weeks (we're at 7 weeks.) There's still lots of hope for us!
Monday, November 9, 2009
External Sensitivities
I'm wondering if the yeast treatment is causing my son to have greater sensitivities to his environment? Earlier I mentioned he reacted to smoke in a restaurant, and before that there was the crazy itching to some epoxy used when we had our windows replaced. Then this week he flared really bad to sunscreen, and it was the Neurtagena Baby that I've used successfully in the past. My understanding is that when yeast dies off, yeast gives off up to 75 toxins that need to be removed from the body. This is done through the bowels and skin. I'm just wondering if it's caused some excess, super sensitivity. Whatever it is, I hope it's temporary. Other than this, my son has been relatively stable and the itching seems to be decreasing.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Dr. Bock's Book "Healing the New Childhood Epidemics. . .
...Autisim, ADHD, Asthma, and Allergies." This is a must read if your kid has any of these issue along with Eczema. I'm only a few chapters in, but already so much is making sense. He practices Integrated Medicine--getting to the root of the issues while using every available tool out there. He has healed these diseases that have been labeled as 'incurable', and people seek his help from all over the world. I'll update later, but wanted to share as this book is a wealth of information.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Eczema Appearing Right Before My Eyes
My son has been looking awesome for about the last week. In addition he's back to sleeping though the night, and believe me it is most welcomed (it's only been 3 1/2 months!) His skin looks so clear that people can hardly believe it's the same kid. Well it was clear until last night (Halloween) when I let him have 2 Hershey Kisses. I knew better, but I feel so bad that he can't enjoy being a kid sometimes so I caved. Immediately right before my eyes his forehead and eyes became itchy, inflamed, and flakey. My guess is that it's the milk in the kisses, which is why I always get him dark chocolate on the rare occasion I allow him to have a treat. Lesson learned.
And then there was a second incident this afternoon while dining out at a coney island. As we were waiting to be served my son started itching uncontrollably, his face once again flared, and he was turning red & splotchy. He was demanding to get outside for some cold air. Once outside, it was like magic--back to normal. Our guess is it was cigarette smoke. It wasn't real smokey in there, but after we sat down we noticed it. Just amazing to watch this happen right before my eyes.
And then there was a second incident this afternoon while dining out at a coney island. As we were waiting to be served my son started itching uncontrollably, his face once again flared, and he was turning red & splotchy. He was demanding to get outside for some cold air. Once outside, it was like magic--back to normal. Our guess is it was cigarette smoke. It wasn't real smokey in there, but after we sat down we noticed it. Just amazing to watch this happen right before my eyes.
Monday, October 26, 2009
A Break Through?
My son uttered the words I've been praying to hear one day. He said, "My itchies are getting better!" I was so happy, we did a little dance together, and then we had to call daddy to share the good news! I hope & pray that we're on our way to healing the eczema. He has been looking clearer the last couple of days, and that's even with dining out at 2 restaurants over the weekend. Restaurants are so challenging for us and we always pay the price. My son has also put together a couple of decent nights worth of sleep, although he still wakes up periodically it's an improvement. The only things we have changed recently were upping the Ketoconazole from 50 mgs to 100 mgs and adding the D-hist jr, and peroxide baths.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Continuing the Yeast Treatment
We had our 2nd visit with the Holistic Ped/MD. My son has been on a yeast anti-fungal treatment for 3 1/2 weeks; he takes Ketoconazole. The doc was surprised that he hadn't progressed further, as my son is still scratching & itching, but wants to continue to treat for yeast for one more month before making a decision to change our course of action. The good news is that his skin is starting to smooth out and lose the inflamed redness. The bad news is that the itch is still there, 24 hours a day. Another mom had told me that it took her son 8 weeks to get to the end result, and the itch was the last to go. Reason being is that the body is fighting off all the poisons the yeast die-off produce and it just takes that long to get it out of the body.
He was prescribed a new steroid cream (I need to find the name of it), it's gentler on the overall system than the betamethosone which is like topical prednisone. He was also prescribed Naltrexone, which is popular in treating alcoholics & drug users, but in lose doses has been used successfully in treating multiple auto-immune disorders. It's suppose to create more endorphins in the body and reset the natural opioid receptors. Here's a informational link: http://www.lowdosenaltrexone.org/#How_does_LDN_work
We were also given a chewable herbal supplement called Springboard D-Hist Jr, which the doc said one kid responded to it so positively that this proved to be the eczema cure that kid's body needed. It's made up of Quercetin, Stinging Nettles Leaf, & Bromeline. It's suppose to be great for allergy relief. There's an adult version called A&I by New Beginnings.
He was prescribed a new steroid cream (I need to find the name of it), it's gentler on the overall system than the betamethosone which is like topical prednisone. He was also prescribed Naltrexone, which is popular in treating alcoholics & drug users, but in lose doses has been used successfully in treating multiple auto-immune disorders. It's suppose to create more endorphins in the body and reset the natural opioid receptors. Here's a informational link: http://www.lowdosenaltrexone.org/#How_does_LDN_work
We were also given a chewable herbal supplement called Springboard D-Hist Jr, which the doc said one kid responded to it so positively that this proved to be the eczema cure that kid's body needed. It's made up of Quercetin, Stinging Nettles Leaf, & Bromeline. It's suppose to be great for allergy relief. There's an adult version called A&I by New Beginnings.
Pictures of Eczema Rash
Here's a couple pictures of my son during a bad eczema flare, set off by the alkaline water. There's times when he's covered head-to-toe and then there are times I can get him to clear--mostly with the control of the foods he eats, but sometimes there seems to be no rhyme or reason.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Holistic MD/Pediatrican
A couple weeks after the run in with the allergist, we were able to get in with the Holistic MD/Pediatrician who accepts our insurance. If this works out, what a blessing it would be since each visit to the ND (naturopath) was costing me anywhere from $100-200 a couple times a month.
This doctor specializes in autism and food allergies. From what I've learned, autistics tend to have lots of gut issues. Anyways, this meeting went really well, he spent 1 1/2 hours with us. The best part (besides this doc taking the time to listen to me!) was that there were oodles of toys in the exam room so I could talk without interruption. Within a few minutes of gathering my son's history the doctor said "This kid has a yeast problem." I was floored because I had asked the two previous docs if yeast could be the source of these issues, and both blew it off (the allergist & holistic #2.) I was told we could test for yeast via a stool sample, but in the end we opted to treat him for the condition without the sample. In my heart-of-hearts I truly think yeast is the problem.
I was told to wait a week before starting an anti-fungal treatment, that we needed this time to build my son's gut up with probiotics. Probiotics are the good guys, and yeast are the bad guys. In addition natural antiinflamatories were prescribed--2000 I.U.s of Vitamin D drops, Fish Oil with Borage Oil, and a supplement with Quercetin. After a week he was to start 100 mg of Ketoconazole. If the problem is yeast, he'd more than likely experience some die-off symptoms.
This doctor specializes in autism and food allergies. From what I've learned, autistics tend to have lots of gut issues. Anyways, this meeting went really well, he spent 1 1/2 hours with us. The best part (besides this doc taking the time to listen to me!) was that there were oodles of toys in the exam room so I could talk without interruption. Within a few minutes of gathering my son's history the doctor said "This kid has a yeast problem." I was floored because I had asked the two previous docs if yeast could be the source of these issues, and both blew it off (the allergist & holistic #2.) I was told we could test for yeast via a stool sample, but in the end we opted to treat him for the condition without the sample. In my heart-of-hearts I truly think yeast is the problem.
I was told to wait a week before starting an anti-fungal treatment, that we needed this time to build my son's gut up with probiotics. Probiotics are the good guys, and yeast are the bad guys. In addition natural antiinflamatories were prescribed--2000 I.U.s of Vitamin D drops, Fish Oil with Borage Oil, and a supplement with Quercetin. After a week he was to start 100 mg of Ketoconazole. If the problem is yeast, he'd more than likely experience some die-off symptoms.
Holistic Doc #2 & The Allergist
After the terrible experience with the alkaline water, I needed yet another set of eyes on this situation. I sought out a well-known holistic doctor that I had heard about for at least 10 years. Over the years I've known 5 people who are patients of his. The first thing this guy says when he sees my son is "What the hell happened to him? Oh, alkaline water. I'm the alkaline water guy's worst nightmare. Everyone tries to push these kids alkaline, when their bodies need to be more acidic." He ordered my son off all juice and fruits, especially citrus, recommended Nutiva coconut oil for his skin and to cook with (it has lots of good omega essential fatty acids), said he should eat pickles, and prescribed two supplements (Cal Amo & Cataplex F by Standard Process.) I kid you not, by the next day my son's skin was improving. Maybe it was just timing, but it was quite the coincidence.
That same week a friend of mine recommended yet another doctor. A holistic MD/pediatrician that accepted our insurance. I thought what the heck, it's worth a try. After the thousands of dollars I've spent out of pocket on the holistic ND (naturopaths), I'm game.
In the mean time I had an appointment with our allergist. We had received the RAST blood test report back, but needed to go in and discuss the findings. This doctor really irritates me, because although he's very nice and spends a lot of time with us he just isn't open minded. It's like he thinks things are the way they are because that's how they are, there is no cause and no looking for the root of any issue. He prescribes a band-aid to fix a gaping wound, weather it's another steroid cream or breathing treatment. He just doesn't have the answers I want and need. My main goal of this visit was to get a prescription for an epi-pen. So mind you my kid was looking a million times better by this time, but the doc was so taken back by my son's appearance that he wanted to hospitalize him and wet wrap him. The worst part was this doc's attitude as if I wasn't doing enough as a mother. He has no idea the hell we've gone through. He actually had the nerve to say "I know you think this is a food allergy issue." Which I replied, "No, I don't think it's a food allergy issue. I think it's deep seated in the gut. I'm not sure if it's yeast or what. What do you think it is?" He said he thinks "he's just a kid with really bad eczema." This totally pissed me off! Something is causing this eczema. Every morsel of food this kid eats has him breaking out in eczema. He can not simplify it like that. So I got the epi-pen script and left. The doc wanted to see him within a couple of days. That was 6 weeks ago, we're not going back if I have anything to do with it.
That same week a friend of mine recommended yet another doctor. A holistic MD/pediatrician that accepted our insurance. I thought what the heck, it's worth a try. After the thousands of dollars I've spent out of pocket on the holistic ND (naturopaths), I'm game.
In the mean time I had an appointment with our allergist. We had received the RAST blood test report back, but needed to go in and discuss the findings. This doctor really irritates me, because although he's very nice and spends a lot of time with us he just isn't open minded. It's like he thinks things are the way they are because that's how they are, there is no cause and no looking for the root of any issue. He prescribes a band-aid to fix a gaping wound, weather it's another steroid cream or breathing treatment. He just doesn't have the answers I want and need. My main goal of this visit was to get a prescription for an epi-pen. So mind you my kid was looking a million times better by this time, but the doc was so taken back by my son's appearance that he wanted to hospitalize him and wet wrap him. The worst part was this doc's attitude as if I wasn't doing enough as a mother. He has no idea the hell we've gone through. He actually had the nerve to say "I know you think this is a food allergy issue." Which I replied, "No, I don't think it's a food allergy issue. I think it's deep seated in the gut. I'm not sure if it's yeast or what. What do you think it is?" He said he thinks "he's just a kid with really bad eczema." This totally pissed me off! Something is causing this eczema. Every morsel of food this kid eats has him breaking out in eczema. He can not simplify it like that. So I got the epi-pen script and left. The doc wanted to see him within a couple of days. That was 6 weeks ago, we're not going back if I have anything to do with it.
Our Alkaline Water Experience
Broccoli is my son's most favorite food on the planet. Seriously, he'd pick a head of broccoli over a brownie. I mentioned previously that after eating broccoli his eczema really flared and I could not get his skin back under control. It was at this point that Holistic Doc #1 recommended that we introduce alkaline water to our son. Boy, was this an experience that won't be forgotten.
Water ioners are what change the ph of water, and they originated out of Japan in the 1970s. We were told that there are studies in Japanese hospitals dating back 10 years that show kids are completely healed and recovered from their eczema and food allergies after drinking this higher ph water for 3-5 months, but during that time things could get worse before they got better. I googled the all knowing internet machine to find any information I could on alkaline water. Basically there are 2 distinct groups out there--the group that claims this water is nothing but snake oil and in no way, shape, or form can affect the body; and group two who swear it's the greatest thing on earth, that it's shrunk their tumors, made their skin look better, and caused weight loss. There's also a really poor quality video on the Japanese eczema study, but it wasn't convincing enough to me to put all my faith in. Bottom line I thought we had nothing to lose. Boy was I wrong!
This turned out to be one of the worse experiences of my life. Within 2 days my son's skin was flaking and peeling, and the eczema took on a whole new level and deep red appearance. He looked like a burn victim. The skin on his face cracked and split opened, and in the cracks it was oozing a yellow fluid. The very top portion of his skin was flaking off in huge bits. The eczema completely took over every joint on his body, and his skin turned to extremely rough, elephant-like skin. All we could do is apply oil and rub to comfort him. We had to wrap him in bandages day and night to keep him from scratching, it was August and he was sleeping in long sleeves and pant pajamas, and his sheets needed to be washed daily as they were covered in flaking skin & blood from the scratching. From the onset of this course of treatment one of us had to sleep with our son to make sure he wasn't tearing his skin off, and he would be up for hours during the night just scratching or with us rubbing him.
My husband and I were so taken back by this outcome that we tried the water for a few days to see what would happen. Both of our forearms broke out in pimple like rashes, I counted twenty blemishes on my arms. Also, one of my finger tips (only one) became raw and inflamed with little painful sores. My finger stayed this way for 2 1/2 months, the only thing that finally cleared it up was soaking it in apple cider vinegar for a few days. Ironically this is the same finger tip that is numb from an old injury where I had cut my hand, I wonder if something was going on with the nerve endings? When I told the Holistic Doc what was going on with us, her response is "You're toxic!" Really, come on. I've never had a skin problem in my life, there has to be a better answer than that.
This was an extremely traumatic experience. It took 2 1/2 months for my son's skin to recover from this ordeal and for him to start sleeping through the night again. It was horrible. But since this, things have gotten even more interesting.
Water ioners are what change the ph of water, and they originated out of Japan in the 1970s. We were told that there are studies in Japanese hospitals dating back 10 years that show kids are completely healed and recovered from their eczema and food allergies after drinking this higher ph water for 3-5 months, but during that time things could get worse before they got better. I googled the all knowing internet machine to find any information I could on alkaline water. Basically there are 2 distinct groups out there--the group that claims this water is nothing but snake oil and in no way, shape, or form can affect the body; and group two who swear it's the greatest thing on earth, that it's shrunk their tumors, made their skin look better, and caused weight loss. There's also a really poor quality video on the Japanese eczema study, but it wasn't convincing enough to me to put all my faith in. Bottom line I thought we had nothing to lose. Boy was I wrong!
This turned out to be one of the worse experiences of my life. Within 2 days my son's skin was flaking and peeling, and the eczema took on a whole new level and deep red appearance. He looked like a burn victim. The skin on his face cracked and split opened, and in the cracks it was oozing a yellow fluid. The very top portion of his skin was flaking off in huge bits. The eczema completely took over every joint on his body, and his skin turned to extremely rough, elephant-like skin. All we could do is apply oil and rub to comfort him. We had to wrap him in bandages day and night to keep him from scratching, it was August and he was sleeping in long sleeves and pant pajamas, and his sheets needed to be washed daily as they were covered in flaking skin & blood from the scratching. From the onset of this course of treatment one of us had to sleep with our son to make sure he wasn't tearing his skin off, and he would be up for hours during the night just scratching or with us rubbing him.
My husband and I were so taken back by this outcome that we tried the water for a few days to see what would happen. Both of our forearms broke out in pimple like rashes, I counted twenty blemishes on my arms. Also, one of my finger tips (only one) became raw and inflamed with little painful sores. My finger stayed this way for 2 1/2 months, the only thing that finally cleared it up was soaking it in apple cider vinegar for a few days. Ironically this is the same finger tip that is numb from an old injury where I had cut my hand, I wonder if something was going on with the nerve endings? When I told the Holistic Doc what was going on with us, her response is "You're toxic!" Really, come on. I've never had a skin problem in my life, there has to be a better answer than that.
This was an extremely traumatic experience. It took 2 1/2 months for my son's skin to recover from this ordeal and for him to start sleeping through the night again. It was horrible. But since this, things have gotten even more interesting.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Antihistamines We've Tried
It can be a bit unsettling with the amount, frequency, and ease that my child takes medication. I say ease because he just takes the little measuring cup and throws it back without a problem, as long as it tastes half way decent. We've tried a few different antihistamines:
1) Zyrtec--We've been prescribed 2 teaspoons a day to help with the allergies. I don't notice any difference while he's on it, so it's hard to tell if it's working or not. If he does start to get a nasal drip, I make sure he takes it to help prevent the drip from settling into his lungs.
2) Xyzal--It's suppose to the be the same as Zyrtec, but is only available in a prescription. There was a 3-week stretch where I thought it really helped with the eczema, and then it seemed like we plateaued.
3) Benedryl--The good old stand by, but of course it makes him sleepy.
4) Atarax/Hydroxyzine--The doc says this is like a stronger benedryl. I give a teaspoon before nap and bedtime and it really helps him relax and not scratch as much. I don't like drugging him, but there are times when his skin needs a break from all the scratching, A friend of mine has been on this medication for 25 years (due to the itching resulting from celiac disease) and she says it's helped her to become less itchy with less medication.
1) Zyrtec--We've been prescribed 2 teaspoons a day to help with the allergies. I don't notice any difference while he's on it, so it's hard to tell if it's working or not. If he does start to get a nasal drip, I make sure he takes it to help prevent the drip from settling into his lungs.
2) Xyzal--It's suppose to the be the same as Zyrtec, but is only available in a prescription. There was a 3-week stretch where I thought it really helped with the eczema, and then it seemed like we plateaued.
3) Benedryl--The good old stand by, but of course it makes him sleepy.
4) Atarax/Hydroxyzine--The doc says this is like a stronger benedryl. I give a teaspoon before nap and bedtime and it really helps him relax and not scratch as much. I don't like drugging him, but there are times when his skin needs a break from all the scratching, A friend of mine has been on this medication for 25 years (due to the itching resulting from celiac disease) and she says it's helped her to become less itchy with less medication.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Creams and Topicals that We've Tried
I've probably mentioned more than once that we've tried everything under the sun to combat eczema. There are many days when my son is covered from head to toe in rough, thick, elephant-like skin. I'll admit that sometimes we don't give a cream a fair shot, but at times it can be hard to tell the difference between a 3 year-old being overly dramatic and something that might really sting. Here's the list of creams, ointments, and oils we've tried:
1) Nutiva Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil. This is our current favorite, it melts on the skin and then is absorbed pretty well. It's also full of Omega 3s & 6s.
2) USF Ointment from Standard Process. This stuff is thick and really coats, and since it's an ointment and not a cream it spreads well. We use this on extra rough spots.
3) Emu Oil. This one seemed to work for us for a short while. There was a rough 2 weeks where we blew through about $100 in this stuff, it's not cheap, but it's suppose to be good for healing and also has a natural SPF.
4) Jason's Vitamin E Oil. We used this for a good 5 month.
5) Eucerin Cream--we've tried the really thick stuff from the tub and the regular cream from the tube. It coats, but after a while my son's skin started turning really red when we used it.
6) Aquaphor--this is what we started with, but it became clear that it irritated his skin.
7) CeraVe--This is my current favorite. We used it for a while early on, but have come back to it and we see good results.
8) Vanicream--Also very hopeful based on others' reviews, but his face would break out in hives.
9) TriCeram--I really liked this one initially, but seemed like we hit a plateau and needed to continue with our search.
10) Native Remedies--We didn't give this one a good chance. It was $25, but the peppermint either tingled or stung my son and he refused to let us use it on him.
11) Vasoline--Same as the aquaphor.
12) Weleda Calendula Baby Cream--We tried for about a week, but didn't notice any difference.
13) Aveeno Anti-Itch Cream--Didn't seem to have any effect at all, nor did regular Aveeno cream.
14) Sesame Seed Oil--Didn't seem to have any effect at all.
15) Wheat Germ Oil--Didn't seem to have any effect at all, and has a strong odor.
16) Shea Butter--We used a whole tub of this, and after a while it seemed more irritating to his skin.
17) Desonide Steroid--This is a milder steroid which we used on his face, it had no impact on his body.
18) Betamethasone Steroid--This is a stronger steroid that we used on his body. It does work, but when we have to take a break from it his skin flare bright pink.
19) Triple Cream--This stuff is thick & creamy, not impossible to rub in like the thick Eucerin Cream. It has promise, but I think it also has some corn products. I know my son has a corn allergy, just not sure if it's topical or only internal.
20) California Baby
21) Elidel--Non steroidal prescription cream. I use this very sparingly when I need to give DS's skin a break from the desonide. This cream also has a black label/cancer warning from the FDA, although the 2 allergists we've seen disagree with the label.
22) Protopic--Another non steroidal prescription cream with a black box warning. I think the main difference between this and Elidel is that Protopic is an ointment where Elidel is a cream. Protopic has worked great for eyelid eczema and other very problematic spots.
23) Atopiclair--Non steroidal prescription cream. This is shea butter/oil based. After about a month of using this cream, I really like it. I can visually watch the reddness reduce once applied, but DS says it stings. The studies on this cream are encouraging, something like a 78% success rate and the itch vanishes over time.
24) Epiceram--This is an Rx that's worked well for my son, we use it primarily as a face cream and the CeraVe on his body.
For 1 1/2 years we bathed our child every single day per doctor's orders. The idea is that applying the creams after a bath will lock in moisture. Results were hit and miss--I think it mostly depended on what he ate and the food allergies. We also would wet wrap or put him in wet pajamas, which did work but is pretty miserable for him. We've also seen doctors that advise to bath only 1-3 times per week, with the idea that bathing removes natural skin oils and that kids need to be exposed to some germs.
You can also try adding the following to the bath water:
1) Baking soda
2) Epsom salts--Magnesium will absorb into the skin, it has an anti-histamine effect.
3) Apple Cider Vinegar
4) White Vinegar
5) Oatmeal bath soak
6) Vasoline (tub will be slippery!)
7) Olive Oil (tub will be slippery!)
8) Hydrogen Peroxide--Our bodies naturally make peroxide as part of an immune response. Our Ped recommends adding some to the bath to combat eczema, and also for colds & flu.
9) Bleach baths--Ask a doctor before attempting. Many eczema patients will develop staph infections, and this helps kill the bacteria. Only use 1-2 ounces in the filled bath tub (not infant tub, and before putting the kid in the bath.) Limit to 1-2 times per week and rinse the kid off well after the bath as this can be drying.
We went through a phase where our son's skin would turn bright red once any kind of water hit it. We started to think he was allergic to chlorine, and installed a shower water filter. His skin has improved at bath time since using the filter. Obviously this doesn't make any sense if you're adding bleach to the bath water. But controlling eczema requires a lot of trial & error.
1) Nutiva Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil. This is our current favorite, it melts on the skin and then is absorbed pretty well. It's also full of Omega 3s & 6s.
2) USF Ointment from Standard Process. This stuff is thick and really coats, and since it's an ointment and not a cream it spreads well. We use this on extra rough spots.
3) Emu Oil. This one seemed to work for us for a short while. There was a rough 2 weeks where we blew through about $100 in this stuff, it's not cheap, but it's suppose to be good for healing and also has a natural SPF.
4) Jason's Vitamin E Oil. We used this for a good 5 month.
5) Eucerin Cream--we've tried the really thick stuff from the tub and the regular cream from the tube. It coats, but after a while my son's skin started turning really red when we used it.
6) Aquaphor--this is what we started with, but it became clear that it irritated his skin.
7) CeraVe--This is my current favorite. We used it for a while early on, but have come back to it and we see good results.
8) Vanicream--Also very hopeful based on others' reviews, but his face would break out in hives.
9) TriCeram--I really liked this one initially, but seemed like we hit a plateau and needed to continue with our search.
10) Native Remedies--We didn't give this one a good chance. It was $25, but the peppermint either tingled or stung my son and he refused to let us use it on him.
11) Vasoline--Same as the aquaphor.
12) Weleda Calendula Baby Cream--We tried for about a week, but didn't notice any difference.
13) Aveeno Anti-Itch Cream--Didn't seem to have any effect at all, nor did regular Aveeno cream.
14) Sesame Seed Oil--Didn't seem to have any effect at all.
15) Wheat Germ Oil--Didn't seem to have any effect at all, and has a strong odor.
16) Shea Butter--We used a whole tub of this, and after a while it seemed more irritating to his skin.
17) Desonide Steroid--This is a milder steroid which we used on his face, it had no impact on his body.
18) Betamethasone Steroid--This is a stronger steroid that we used on his body. It does work, but when we have to take a break from it his skin flare bright pink.
19) Triple Cream--This stuff is thick & creamy, not impossible to rub in like the thick Eucerin Cream. It has promise, but I think it also has some corn products. I know my son has a corn allergy, just not sure if it's topical or only internal.
20) California Baby
21) Elidel--Non steroidal prescription cream. I use this very sparingly when I need to give DS's skin a break from the desonide. This cream also has a black label/cancer warning from the FDA, although the 2 allergists we've seen disagree with the label.
22) Protopic--Another non steroidal prescription cream with a black box warning. I think the main difference between this and Elidel is that Protopic is an ointment where Elidel is a cream. Protopic has worked great for eyelid eczema and other very problematic spots.
23) Atopiclair--Non steroidal prescription cream. This is shea butter/oil based. After about a month of using this cream, I really like it. I can visually watch the reddness reduce once applied, but DS says it stings. The studies on this cream are encouraging, something like a 78% success rate and the itch vanishes over time.
24) Epiceram--This is an Rx that's worked well for my son, we use it primarily as a face cream and the CeraVe on his body.
For 1 1/2 years we bathed our child every single day per doctor's orders. The idea is that applying the creams after a bath will lock in moisture. Results were hit and miss--I think it mostly depended on what he ate and the food allergies. We also would wet wrap or put him in wet pajamas, which did work but is pretty miserable for him. We've also seen doctors that advise to bath only 1-3 times per week, with the idea that bathing removes natural skin oils and that kids need to be exposed to some germs.
You can also try adding the following to the bath water:
1) Baking soda
2) Epsom salts--Magnesium will absorb into the skin, it has an anti-histamine effect.
3) Apple Cider Vinegar
4) White Vinegar
5) Oatmeal bath soak
6) Vasoline (tub will be slippery!)
7) Olive Oil (tub will be slippery!)
8) Hydrogen Peroxide--Our bodies naturally make peroxide as part of an immune response. Our Ped recommends adding some to the bath to combat eczema, and also for colds & flu.
9) Bleach baths--Ask a doctor before attempting. Many eczema patients will develop staph infections, and this helps kill the bacteria. Only use 1-2 ounces in the filled bath tub (not infant tub, and before putting the kid in the bath.) Limit to 1-2 times per week and rinse the kid off well after the bath as this can be drying.
We went through a phase where our son's skin would turn bright red once any kind of water hit it. We started to think he was allergic to chlorine, and installed a shower water filter. His skin has improved at bath time since using the filter. Obviously this doesn't make any sense if you're adding bleach to the bath water. But controlling eczema requires a lot of trial & error.
Changes We've Tried Around the House
The thing with eczema is that it can be completely trial and error. We've made changes to just about everything in our house. Some products we've made the switch to include:
1) Switching to plant based powdered laundry & dish washer detergent. We now use the Trader Joe brand, as they're all natural.
2) Using eucalyptus drops in the laundry to kill off dust mites.
3) Not using fabric softner.
4) Using Frebreeze Allergen to also combat dust mites.
5) Using homemade spray cleaner made of 1 part alcohol, 1 part white vinegar, & 1 part water. Lemon oil drops can be added for fragrance.
6) All natural toothpaste for our son--Tom's children's flouride free.
7) All natural bath soap. We've tried a few varieties including Emu Oil, Evening Primrose, and Honey & Oatmeal.
8) Trader Joe Shampoo, and Weleda Shampoo.
I haven't noticed any dramatic changes since introducing the above, but it can't hurt. Until we figure this out we'll continue to suspect anything and everything.
1) Switching to plant based powdered laundry & dish washer detergent. We now use the Trader Joe brand, as they're all natural.
2) Using eucalyptus drops in the laundry to kill off dust mites.
3) Not using fabric softner.
4) Using Frebreeze Allergen to also combat dust mites.
5) Using homemade spray cleaner made of 1 part alcohol, 1 part white vinegar, & 1 part water. Lemon oil drops can be added for fragrance.
6) All natural toothpaste for our son--Tom's children's flouride free.
7) All natural bath soap. We've tried a few varieties including Emu Oil, Evening Primrose, and Honey & Oatmeal.
8) Trader Joe Shampoo, and Weleda Shampoo.
I haven't noticed any dramatic changes since introducing the above, but it can't hurt. Until we figure this out we'll continue to suspect anything and everything.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Monthly Asthma Attacks & Holistic Doc #1
Absolutely every video shot of my child has him coughing to some degree. It's been obvious that this kid has some respiratory distress. For the 6 months between the ages of 2 to 2 1/2 my son was rushed monthly to the doctor's or the emergency room with an uncontrollable asthma attack that didn't respond to albuterol treatments. Each visit was the same thing--pulseox readings, breathing treatments, and prednisone prescriptions. After 6 straight months of this I was ready to jump off a cliff, and with winter approaching I was really worried. I decided we needed additional help than what the allergist, pulmologist, dermatologist, and pediatrician were able to provide. And so I sought the help of a holistic naturopathic doctor.
This was our first encounter with a holistic practitioner, and I was skeptical but desperate. She practiced applied kinesiology, which incorporates a system of manual muscle testing and therapy. AK is based on the theory that an organ dysfunction is accompanied by a specific muscle weakness. Like I said, I was skeptical but willing to give anything a shot. I can tell you that a year later when we had the RAST blood testing done, she was right on with the foods he was allergic to.
The muscle testing allows for a very tailored and personalized regiment. He was prescribed various homeopathic medications and nutritional support supplements. Within the first few weeks the skin inflammation greatly reduced. There were times when we could get his skin to clear, but the food allergies were definitely still present. The asthma flares settled down, no more rushing to the ER, although we did continue with the daily pulmicort breathing treatments. It was the first winter when every little cough didn't settle in my son's chest. Come spring my son was looking very good and the asthma wasn't always on my mind. We decided to try to re-introduce his favorite food--broccoli.
Well, the broccoli brought the eczema back in full force. I was told that broccoli breaks down into sulphur in the liver which creates a detox process. I had thought he was allergic to it, but the RAST test claimed he wasn't (and I've learned that RASTs are not that reliable.) After battling eczema triggered by the broccoli for 8 weeks we were introduced to the idea of alkaline water.
This was our first encounter with a holistic practitioner, and I was skeptical but desperate. She practiced applied kinesiology, which incorporates a system of manual muscle testing and therapy. AK is based on the theory that an organ dysfunction is accompanied by a specific muscle weakness. Like I said, I was skeptical but willing to give anything a shot. I can tell you that a year later when we had the RAST blood testing done, she was right on with the foods he was allergic to.
The muscle testing allows for a very tailored and personalized regiment. He was prescribed various homeopathic medications and nutritional support supplements. Within the first few weeks the skin inflammation greatly reduced. There were times when we could get his skin to clear, but the food allergies were definitely still present. The asthma flares settled down, no more rushing to the ER, although we did continue with the daily pulmicort breathing treatments. It was the first winter when every little cough didn't settle in my son's chest. Come spring my son was looking very good and the asthma wasn't always on my mind. We decided to try to re-introduce his favorite food--broccoli.
Well, the broccoli brought the eczema back in full force. I was told that broccoli breaks down into sulphur in the liver which creates a detox process. I had thought he was allergic to it, but the RAST test claimed he wasn't (and I've learned that RASTs are not that reliable.) After battling eczema triggered by the broccoli for 8 weeks we were introduced to the idea of alkaline water.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Our eczema journey begins . . .
At 5 months old my son developed red, irritated patches on his cheeks. Seeing how the fall weather had set it, I thought it was due to the change of season and the dryness of the air from using the heater. His skin progressively worsened, to the point if I held him while wearing a dark colored shirt I wold be noticeably covered in flakes of skin. We saw a dermatologist, and the cycle of topical steroids began. We were told to get rid of all Johnson's & Johnson's product and replace them with Aveeno or Dove, to use Neutragena T-gel shampoo, to bath our son everyday in warm water but to only wash his hands, feet, & private areas with soap, and then within 3 minutes of bathing to apply steroid creams followed by Eucerin cream or Aquaphor. We followed this advice religiously, and yet we were never able to completely clear the eczema.
At 11 months, our son was hospitalized with breathing problems. This turned out to be our first brush with asthma, although not formally diagnosed for sometime later. From here on out, we began daily breathing treatments of Pulmicort via the nebulizer under the advice of a pulmologist.
Not too long after that, food allergies appeared with the introduction of a single blueberry. After eating it he immediately vomited and had an asthma attack. As exposure to new foods increased, so did the food allergies. His skin would break out in hive-like splotches, and would turn thick, scaly, and crusty. At 18 months the skin prick test only showed an egg allergy, but it became apparent that this kids was allergic to a whole lot more than blueberries and eggs. The allergist advised that "if you think he's allergic to something, then avoid it." Much easier said than done! I thought he was allergic to milk, soy, wheat, tomatoes, broccoli, cranberries, yogurt, cottage cheese, raisins, peas, chick peas, and a slew of other foods were suspect. I played this game until I finally couldn't take it any longer and demanded a RAST test be done so we could have a firm understanding of what exactly we were dealing with. By this time my son was 3 years-old. And he did test allergic to everything I mentioned plus, apples, carrots, green beans, bananas black pepper, all tree nuts, peanuts were off the charts, and honey. Basically, this kid became allergic to everything he ate.
As a side-note, my son also had a terrible allergic reaction to his 3rd DTaP vaccine. On top of the immediate vomiting and eczema from head to toe, he also reacted with an asthma attack and had a lump the size of a small apple at the injection site. These reactions lated for 12 days, and under the doctor's advice that was the last vaccine administered to him.
Throughout this process I learned that eczema, food allergies, and asthma commonly go together. I also learned that there is not a cure for any of this autoimmune responses. It's been a lot of trial and error, and a complete learning process along the way.
At 11 months, our son was hospitalized with breathing problems. This turned out to be our first brush with asthma, although not formally diagnosed for sometime later. From here on out, we began daily breathing treatments of Pulmicort via the nebulizer under the advice of a pulmologist.
Not too long after that, food allergies appeared with the introduction of a single blueberry. After eating it he immediately vomited and had an asthma attack. As exposure to new foods increased, so did the food allergies. His skin would break out in hive-like splotches, and would turn thick, scaly, and crusty. At 18 months the skin prick test only showed an egg allergy, but it became apparent that this kids was allergic to a whole lot more than blueberries and eggs. The allergist advised that "if you think he's allergic to something, then avoid it." Much easier said than done! I thought he was allergic to milk, soy, wheat, tomatoes, broccoli, cranberries, yogurt, cottage cheese, raisins, peas, chick peas, and a slew of other foods were suspect. I played this game until I finally couldn't take it any longer and demanded a RAST test be done so we could have a firm understanding of what exactly we were dealing with. By this time my son was 3 years-old. And he did test allergic to everything I mentioned plus, apples, carrots, green beans, bananas black pepper, all tree nuts, peanuts were off the charts, and honey. Basically, this kid became allergic to everything he ate.
As a side-note, my son also had a terrible allergic reaction to his 3rd DTaP vaccine. On top of the immediate vomiting and eczema from head to toe, he also reacted with an asthma attack and had a lump the size of a small apple at the injection site. These reactions lated for 12 days, and under the doctor's advice that was the last vaccine administered to him.
Throughout this process I learned that eczema, food allergies, and asthma commonly go together. I also learned that there is not a cure for any of this autoimmune responses. It's been a lot of trial and error, and a complete learning process along the way.
Why blog about eczema?
In hopes that others can benefit from all the effort, heartache, and money I've spent fighting this battle for my son. This blog is dedicated to all my efforts to forever rid my son of his terrible eczema itch. I've learned so much over the last three years, have tried countless potions & lotions (ok, maybe not countless--at last count I have purchased over 85 products), and am bound and determined to bring some normalcy to my son's life.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)