Table of contents
What is eczema?
Eczema is a dry, itchy skin noncontagious condition that affects one in five children. Almost half of the cases start before the age of six months and can last till 3-5 years.
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Symptoms
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Red cracked areas of dry itchy skin that sometimes release fluid or bleeds.
Where will you find eczema?
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The areas where eczema appears differs according to age:
From 6-12 months:
- Elbows
- Knees
From 2-5 years:
- Elbows
- Knees
- Wrists
- Ankles
- Hands
- Around mouth
What to expect?
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Your child will be restless and fussy.
What causes eczema?
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There are no proven scientific causes of eczema. As mentioned earlier, eczema affects one in five children, but if you or your partner have an eczema history, your child is at higher risk of eczema.
However, there are some factors that trigger cause flare-ups.
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- Bath and skincare products
- Laundry detergents
- Synthetic and wool fabrics
- Pets hair and fur
- Allergic foods (milk, egg, peanuts, soya)
- Sudden hot or cold temperature
- Teething
- Bacterial infections
- Viral infections (cold sores and herpes)
- Stress
Treatment and prevention
According to the National Eczema Association, there is no treatment for Eczema, children grow out of it over time. However, there are ways to keep it under control.
Emollients
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Whether creams, lotions, or ointments, it’s very important to use something on your baby’s skin to moisturize it especially after baths.
Corticosteroid Creams
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In severely painful eczema cases, a corticosteroid cream might be needed. However, it must be prescripted by your child’s pediatrician to avoid side effects.
Daily Bathing
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Children need to bathe frequently with warm water as hot water makes eczema worse. It’s also very important to bathe immediately after swimming and moisturize the skin to avoid chlorine side effects.
Nail Trimming
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Always keep your baby’s nails trimmed to avoid skin scratching. It’s better to cover their hands with mittens while sleeping.
Natural Fabrics
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Eczema’s reaction to wool or synthetic fabrics differs from one child to another. If you notice any reaction, dress them in cotton.
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