Initially there is redness and swelling of the skin. There is intense itching. When scratched, the rash oozes a moist substance that dries and aggravates the itching. The rash usually occurs on the face, in the bends of the elbows, and behind the knees. Later, the skin becomes dry, thickened and scaly. |
Eczema |
Eczema |
Definition |
Cause |
The cause is unknown. It is often inherited. Allergy is a large factor, but doesn't apply in all cases. Outbreaks may be triggered by bathing the baby too frequently, or by dry winter heat. Children with eczema are at increased risk to develop food sensitivities, asthma, and allergies later in life. |
Eczema is a chronic skin disease that clears up, then reappears. It occurs at any age, but is more frequent in infancy than any other time. Most of the time it appears before 6 months of age, but after the first month of life. |
Symptoms |
Treatment |
Give warm baths 3 times a week for 5 minutes. "Pat" dry rather than "rubbing" with towels. Bathing more often or for longer periods of time will worsen the condition. Use a mild soap such as Purpose, Lowila, Phisoderm, Aveeno, Oilatum, Basis, or Neutrogena. Do not use Ivory, Dial, Zest, or any other deodorant soap or soap that is highly perfumed. Seal moisture into the skin immediately after bathing, while skin is still moist, with a lotion or cream such as Alpha-Keri, Nivea, Lubath, or Eucerin. Avoid perfumed lotions including baby lotion. Apply a doctor-recommended hydrocortisone cream to relieve itching. Use cotton clothing and bedding. Avoid nylon, wool, starched or rough clothing. Some babies are bothered by fabrics containing polyester or acrylic fibers. Trim your child's fingernails short and keep nails and hands clean to prevent infection in case he scratches. If needed to prevent scratching, put cotton mittens on your baby's hands. Place a cotton pad between the sheet and plastic mattress to prevent sweating. Keep the air moist with a vaporizer or cool-mist humidifier. Observe your child's diet for foods that may cause or worsen the condition. If a particular food is the cause, eliminate it from his diet. However, do not attempt extensive dietary changes without a doctor's supervision. The doctor may prescribe some anti-itching medicine to be given by mouth. |
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