Eczema on babies is actually quite a common thing and can occur in around one in five of all children. If your child is going to suffer with this condition it will probably make an appearance before he reaches his second birthday. Although eczema as such can never be “cured” it can certainly be treated, and in many instances a child will simply grow out of it by the time he reaches his teens.
The condition is pretty easy to recognize, it is small patches of dry, itchy and perhaps flaky skin which can become red and cracked in some cases, perhaps even leading to bleeding or oozing fluid. The areas which are most commonly affected are the hands, back, face, backs of the knees and elbows in babies and younger children.
Basically, eczema on babies means that their skin barrier is not working as efficiently as it ought to be making the skin excessively dry. This skin will be more susceptible to allergens and infections which will be able to enter through it more easily and can lead to the condition becoming even worse.
Eczema Treatment for Babies and Young Children
The type of treatment which is needed depends largely upon the severity of the condition. A child who displays the mildest of symptoms with a small number of red, itchy areas can be treated using an emollient lotion, ointment or cream. This may even be applied in combination with a short course of the lowest strength of steroid cream available.
It is essential that the baby’s skin is frequently moisturized to prevent any additional flare-ups. Any baby or small child who is prone to eczema should have emollient cream applied liberally, numerous times throughout each day, even when there are no evident patches. This will help to prevent the skin from becoming too dry and the condition from flaring up again.
Some parents find that they use a large amount of emollient creams very regularly. The best idea is to check with your doctor, pediatrician or healthcare worker who will advise on the best products for the treatment of your baby. There are a large number of these lotions, potions and creams available on the market today and it may be a case of “trial and error” before you find the one which is the most effective for your child.
The Causes of Eczema
Although nobody can pinpoint one precise thing which leads to this condition it is known to be genetic. If a child suffers from hay fever, asthma or other allergic reactions the condition may flare up as his immune system reacts to the allergens. If this is the case then more intensive treatment may be required.
Other causes may be allergic reactions to chemical products like bubble bath, washing powder or shampoos. If your baby shows signs of eczema there is no need to panic. Take him to the doctors as soon as you can and you will be advised upon the best creams and potions to help to soothe the problem.
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