When a Child Has Eczema and Asthma: Two Plans for an Active Day
Many children with eczema enjoy sports, and some children also have asthma. The conditions have different symptoms and treatments. Having eczema does not mean a child has asthma or will develop it, and a moisturizer has no role in treating breathing symptoms.
What research can tell families
In an observational study, children with atopic dermatitis had a higher rate of newly diagnosed asthma than children without it after adjustment for several factors. The reported hazard ratio was 1.96. That is an association in a population, not proof that eczema causes asthma or a prediction for an individual child.
| Situation | Practical next step |
|---|---|
| Before practice | Share an up-to-date asthma action plan with the appropriate coach or school staff, following family and school privacy rules. |
| Prescribed inhaler | Ensure the child can access and use it as directed by their clinician and school policy. |
| Skin routine | Follow the child's separate eczema treatment and moisturizer plan. |
| Breathing difficulty | Stop activity and follow the asthma emergency plan; call 911 for severe distress or if directed by the plan. |
Support activity and recognize symptoms
CDC encourages families to work with their care team on an individual asthma action plan. Coughing, wheezing, chest tightness or unusual breathlessness during exercise should be discussed with the child's clinician. Many children with well-managed asthma can be active with the right plan.
A skin-care product cannot replace a reliever inhaler or asthma medicine. Similarly, an asthma action plan does not replace prescribed eczema care.
Dr. Arsy Hydration Recovery Moisturizer #003 is a fragrance-free moisturizer for dry, sensitive and eczema-prone skin. Use according to the label and your skin's tolerance. It is not a substitute for prescribed treatment.
See our PE teacher guide and school sports and eczema plan.
Sources and further reading
- Atopic dermatitis and asthma outcomes: observational study; PubMed Central.
- CDC: living with asthma and action plans.
- CDC: supporting children with asthma at school.
- NIAMS / NIH: atopic dermatitis.
Educational information from Dr. Arsy, not individual medical advice. Cited organizations and researchers do not endorse this product.