Volume 12, Issue 3
MARCH 2010   

  
   Diane, from Algonquin, had this to say...
   "My children have been patients with your
     practice for over 10 years and I have always
     felt like we were getting the very best care
     for them. I am thrilled with your Algonquin
     location. Keep up the great work!"
 
  

   Joanne, from Prospect Heights, writes..."Thank
   you so much for your outstanding care!"

 
  
   Beat the rush! If you need a Kindergarten, 6th 
     Grade, 9th Grade or College physical you can
     make your appointment today as times fill up
     fast over the summer months.
     To schedule a physical
     this April, May or June
     please call our office
     at (847) 398-0400.
     You'll be glad you did!

  

   
   
Remember this past December when we shared some of the survey results with you, specifically about
   purchasing your child's medication at your office visit. (You can click here to view a copy of that issue.)
 
   Well...the WAIT is over! After extensive research, we have found an efficient way to provide our patient
   families with medication in a safe manner at a competitive price. Introducing...APL
RxExpress.
 

   With our new service, you will be able to get your prescription filled
   in the exam room during your office visit. In addition, there are a
   number of over-the-counter medications available for purchase at
   our checkout counter.
 
   Just think...no more extra trips to the pharmacy, the traffic, the
   parking or standing in long lines. The WAIT is truly over!
 

   Discover all the benefits of our new "in-house" service by visiting our website:  aplrxexpress.com
 

At APL, no question is too silly and remember the first five-thousand are free.


    
 
    
Atopic Dermatitis is a skin condition sometimes referred to as Eczema. It
     is characterized by sensitive, dry skin prone to a red itchy rash. The rash
     frequently is noticed first on the cheeks but may involve any part of the body,
     commonly in the creases of the elbows, wrists, and knees. Over time, the skin
     may become thickened. Secondary skin infections may develop especially
     following excessive scratching or with flare-ups. Children with a family history
     of eczema, asthma, or allergic rhinitis (allergies) are more prone to developing
     Atopic Dermatitis.
     Eczema is a chronic skin condition. The goal is to control the rash rather than to cure it. In some  
     children, eczema may go away by adolescence. One of the cornerstones of treatment is to stop the
     “Itch-Scratch Cycle.” Keeping the skin well-moisturized will minimize the itching that leads to scratching,
     thereby helping to prevent a severe rash or flare-up.

     Key Steps in the Management of Atopic Dermatitis:

     - Bathe daily for less than 10 minutes in warm (not hot) water using mild cleansers (avoid those with
       perfumes/fragrances, bubble bath, and “soaps” like Ivory). Pat (do not rub) the skin dry – it should still
       feel a bit moist. Now is the best time to trap that moisture in the skin with thick emollients. Immediately
       (within 3 minutes) apply a thick cream such as Eucerin or Cetaphil to the entire body. Children with
       eczema always have some degree of skin dryness. Lotions and oils are not very effective moisturizers.

     - Emollients should be reapplied throughout the day, at least twice daily. During flares or with severely
       dry skin, more frequent moisturizing is necessary. If the use of emollients alone is not enough to control
       the rash, topical corticosteroids can be used. Our doctors may recommend an over-the-counter
       preparation or prescribe a stronger topical steroid for short-term use once the rash has been
       assessed. 

     - Children with itchy skin are often miserable. Antihistamines may be recommended to help break the
       “Itch-Scratch Cycle” and to provide comfort to a child who persistently scratches. Keep hands clean
       and fingernails short to decrease the risk of infecting the eczema. If a secondary skin infection
       develops, antibiotics are needed.

     - Cotton or cotton-blend clothing is best for the child with Atopic Dermatitis. Wool and synthetics can be
        irritating to the skin. Mild laundry detergent should be used to clean your child’s clothes and linens. 

     - Avoid known triggers including excessive heat or cold, sweating, dry air (use a humidifier), chlorine
       (wash after swimming), and known allergens. 

     As a chronic condition, Atopic Dermatitis requires strict adherence to daily maintenance measures
     and early detection of flare-ups with prompt treatment in order to keep the condition under control and
     prevent complications.
 
  

We have made it easy for you by
centralizing calls for both offices.
To make an appointment, talk to
a nurse or to contact a physician,
dial our main office number.
 
(847) 398-0400 Main Number
 
(847) 398-9590 Fax

 
algonquinpediatrics.com
arlingtonpediatrics.com

     Below are a few jokes we found
     funny. Let us know if you have any
     good ones for our next issue.
 
   
What has forty feet and sings?
   
The school choir.
 
    What is the quickest way to

    double your money?   Fold it in half.
 
    What did one virus say to another?
    Stay away! I think I've got penicillin!

 
 

Our motto: "We treat our patients like our own children and grandchildren."

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