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Becky MantinBritish ITV weather presenter and eczema campaigner.
Country:
 Great Britain |
Content:
- Becky Mantin: Battling Eczema in Her Son
- The Initial Diagnosis
- A Devastating Flare-Up
- Seeking a Cure
- The Agony and Frustration
- Desperate Remedies
- Hospitalization and Steroids
- A Double-Edged Sword
Becky Mantin: Battling Eczema in Her Son
Becky Mantin, an ITV weather presenter, faced an overwhelming battle when her son developed severe eczema. Despite having a family history of the condition, the extent of Rory's suffering was unprecedented.
The Initial Diagnosis
At the tender age of eight months, Rory's leg developed patches of dry, itchy, and flaky skin. Mantin initially assumed it was harmless, as it resembled her husband's family's mild cases of eczema. Hydrocortisone cream seemed to alleviate the issue.
A Devastating Flare-Up
However, ten months later, the condition reared its head with unimaginable force. It struck at an inopportune moment, during a stressful period when the family had lost a home purchase and Mantin was eight months pregnant. On a visit to Somerset, Rory woke up covered in a terrifying red rash. Despite the lack of scratching or crying, he had a fever and was rushed to the hospital.
Seeking a Cure
Doctors initially suspected an allergic reaction to something in their grandmother's house. However, they later diagnosed Rory with eczema. Hydrocortisone and antihistamines provided some relief, but the rash persisted.
The Agony and Frustration
The first six months were the most challenging. The triggers remained elusive, and with the birth of Rory's younger brother, Thomas, the family's burden increased. One night, Mantin discovered a horrifying scene: blood splattered on the walls and toys as Rory scratched himself relentlessly. The realization that eczema could lead to such self-inflicted harm shocked Mantin.
Desperate Remedies
Doctors advised bandaging Rory's hands to prevent scratching. Mantin improvised with socks and surgical tape, but to no avail. Stronger creams were prescribed, and Mantin even resorted to alternative therapies like bathing Rory in warm oatmeal. However, the rumors of its soothing properties proved unreliable.
Hospitalization and Steroids
Five weeks after Thomas's birth, Rory was hospitalized. Despite the family's efforts, his weakened immune system and love of play had taken its toll. Severe infections ravaged his skin, necessitating hospitalization. He received antibiotics and occasional sedatives for five days. Upon his discharge, doctors introduced prednisolone, a medication that miraculously cleared the rash.
A Double-Edged Sword
However, prednisolone came with severe side effects, leaving Mantin torn. It suppressed Rory's eczema, but its long-term use could harm his health. Now, she navigates a delicate balance, using the medication cautiously to avoid both the return of Rory's eczema and the detrimental effects of prolonged steroid use.
