Click here to view techniques that will help best prepare you for bed and limit the effect of eczema on sleep.

Adults and children alike will know that one of the most frustrating things about eczema is being in bed, desperately tired but unable to sleep because of the itching.

Not only does the eczema sufferer become tired and irritable due to lack of sleep but often partners, parents and other household members lose sleep too.
A lack of sleep may affect a person's mood and behaviour. It may also make it more difficult for them to concentrate at school or work.

Top Tips to Improve Sleep

• Even when skin is not particularly red or bumpy still apply emollients as it keeps the skin hydrated.

• Keep pets out of the bedroom

• Use mittens on your hands and bandages on your limbs to avoid breaking the skin while scratching in your sleep

• Keep your bedroom as dust free as possible by cleaning regularly

• Have a bath about an hour before bed followed by plenty of moisturisers – this will help cool skin

• Keep the bedroom cool at night – leave a window open and use lightweight cotton sheets and cotton pyjamas

Does eczema keep your child awake at night?

Application of some cream, removing some of the bed sheet or giving your child a cold drink are all ways to help bring your child's temperature down and ease the discomfort. Often just some love, affection and some gentle stroking of the skin will be enough to relax them and send them off to sleep.