My DD (5) has struggled with severe eczema since she was a baby and also has an egg allergy and spontaneous urticaria (hives). Her eczema is much improved but she has now developed nodular prurigo, incredibly itchy round sores on her arms and legs which are greatly exacerbated by picking. The eczema clinic have given us a very potent steroid cream to try but if that fails they've recommended a course of immunosuppressants. Plus we need to gently remind her not to pick in a non shaming way.
I'm looking for advice around whether or not it's wise to try to address the behavioural side of this with therapy or other strategies. She says that sometimes she picks because it's itchy but most of the time it's because she's bored or it feels nice, especially to pick a scab off. I'm concerned that if we try to address the habit she may be fighting a losing battle as there is a skin condition behind this, a constant trigger. I wonder if, therefore, immunosuppressants are the only way but they do come with side effects.
It's very distressing and difficult to know what to do. Anyone out there have experience/advice?