Issue link: https://fredparent.uberflip.com/i/1544005
14 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • March 2026 2 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • Special Issue 2026 WRITTEN BY CAMILLE TURNER Many parents know firsthand the anxiety that arises when unexplained skin changes appear on their child, leaving parents wondering whether it's some- thing minor or a sign of a bigger issue. And, while childhood eczema is common, its symptoms can vary, making it some mes difficult to recognize in its early stages. To clear things up, in this interview, Irina Dawson, MD, a Board-Cer fied Allergist and Immunologist at Allergy Partners of Fredericksburg, offers guid- ance on iden fying and managing symptoms, assessing severity, and knowing when to seek specialized care. Can you briefly share your background and experience working with children and families affected by eczema? I am a board-cer fied allergist and immunologist and have been prac cing at Allergy Partners of Fredericksburg for the past ½ years. A large part of my prac ce is caring for children with eczema and their families. Eczema is a special area of interest for me because it affects not just the skin, but sleep, school performance, emo onal health, and family life. I work closely with parents to create realis c, long-term plans that help children stay comfortable and confident. For parents who are new to this topic, how would you explain eczema in simple terms? Eczema is a chronic skin condi on where the skin's "protec ve barrier" does not work as well as it should. This means the skin: • Loses moisture easily • Becomes dry, itchy, and inflamed • Is more sensi ve to irritants and allergens It is not contagious, and it is not caused by poor hygiene or something parents did wrong. sponsored material Childhood Eczema: An Allergist Answers Parents' Most Common Questions Eczema is very common: • 1 in 5 children will develop eczema. • Most cases start in infancy or early childhood. • Around 60% of children show symptoms before age 1. • Nearly 85% develop it before age 5. Some children outgrow it, while others continue to have flares into adolescence or adulthood. ~ Irina Dawson, MD Allergist and Immunologist sponsored material