### New Technology for Eczema Itching Relief Scientists at the University of Texas, Austin have developed a new technology to help monitor the itching caused by eczema. This innovative device is a soft, wearable sensor that can even help identify the reasons behind this skin condition. Eczema affects 10% to 20% of people in developed countries, and itching is one of its most bothersome symptoms. It can be so severe that it disrupts sleep and daily activities. Other symptoms include inflammation and a red rash. In a study, 60% of children with eczema reported consistent sleep problems, and severe cases can lead to losing up to one night of sleep per week due to itching. Tracking and quantifying itching has always been challenging. To address this, researchers created a wearable wireless sensor that monitors how often eczema patients scratch. This flexible skin patch fits on your arm and uses algorithms to detect scratching motions with 99% accuracy, whether they originate from your elbow or wrist. The data collected by this device has multiple uses. It can help track the severity of eczema and evaluate the effectiveness of treatments. Since itchiness is a major symptom, it's crucial for researchers and doctors to know if a medication, ointment, or bathing routine is reducing the itch. Additionally, using this device at the start of a diagnosis can help identify the triggers of eczema. Various factors, such as allergens like pollen and certain foods, rough clothing, and scented soaps, can trigger eczema. The device allows you to monitor how itchiness changes when potential triggers are removed. This can be particularly useful for diagnosing food allergies. Over 30% of children with eczema also have food allergies, but tests for these allergens often yield false positives. This can lead to unnecessary dietary restrictions. With this device, you and your doctor can determine if eliminating a specific food actually reduces itchiness. The data from this device will aid researchers, doctors, and patients in better understanding this critical eczema symptom.