Mystery Solved!

For almost two years Matthew has insisted on wearing long sleeves with a preference for pictures over stripes. He also likes pants and not shorts. It has made shopping for him very easy. I just have to make sure to have enough long sleeves on hand in February to last until August when they start selling them in the stores again. The sales in January always help with this.

We never questioned his steadfast penchant for full coverage, even on the hottest days. We just supposed that kids have various things they get stuck on.

A recent visit to the doctor finally unveiled the possible science behind Matthew's clothing selection. He has been experiencing eczema for several months. We have been trying all sorts of creams, lotions, ointments, body washes, and bath regimens.

The term eczema is broadly applied to a range of persistent skin conditions. These include dryness and recurring skin rashes. Matthew has experienced both, but our biggest concern lately is the dryness and the itching that results. He has been itching all over all the time. Our doctor sat down with us this week and explained why this is happening to him and how we can help make him the most comfortable.

We learned that skin cells are shaped like a hexagon and fit together nice and tight. Matthew has inherited a gene (on the chromosome that also includes genes for other allergies) that forms his skin cells with flares on the corners of the hexagon. This means that his skin cells don't fit together nice and tight and moisture can evaporate causing dry skin and itching. The doctor explained various things we can do to help him, including the use of long sleeves and pants (when temps are not too hot)!!! Apparently, when skin cells are formed this way, it doesn't feel desirable to have air flow over them.

That's it! That explains so much. However, the science doesn't explain why he prefers pictures!