Have you noticed your child scratching during the night? This can be a sign of a skin condition, bed bugs, or uncomfortable sheets. Read on to learn about the potential causes and how to find relief for your child.
Skin Conditions
The most common skin conditions that cause itching are eczema and psoriasis. Eczema is characterized by red, itchy patches of skin that may become cracked or scaly over time. Psoriasis is also marked with red patches of skin, but they are covered in silver-colored scales.
Both eczema and psoriasis can be treated with a variety of creams and ointments prescribed by your doctor. The first step to finding relief for your child in this case is taking them to a primary care provider for more advice on what skin condition your child may be dealing with.
Bed Bugs
If you notice your child is itchy around the same time each night, bed bugs could be to blame. Bed bugs often hide during the day and come out at night. To check for bed bugs, look for small black spots on mattresses, sheets, pillows, and other areas near where your child sleeps.
If you do find evidence of bed bugs in your home, contact a pest control professional to help you eliminate them quickly and effectively. Don’t wait, leaving bed bugs to multiply can make the situation much worse. If you suspect bed bugs, take action right away.
Uncomfortable Sheets
Itching can also be caused by sleeping on uncomfortable sheets—especially if they are made from materials like polyester or nylon that don’t breathe well. To reduce itching caused by this issue, switch to sheets made from natural fibers such as cotton or linen which will keep skin cool and dry throughout the night. Additionally, make sure to wash new sheets before using them for the first time. This will help remove any chemicals used during manufacturing that may irritate sensitive skin.
If your child is experiencing itching at night, there are several possible causes ranging from skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis to pests like bed bugs or even uncomfortable sheets made from synthetic materials. By understanding what might be causing the itching and taking action to address it appropriately—such as seeking treatment from a doctor for eczema or switching out old sheets for ones made with natural fibers—you can help reduce symptoms so that everyone gets a good night’s sleep!
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