A child that grows up with eczema has a painful and anxiety filled life. Why am I so itchy? What did I touch this time? Why is this happening to me? Can’t you make this stop? These are some of the many lamentations of a child with eczema. If they are too young to know what’s happening, it is up to parents to recognize this skin disorder. As a parent, how do you know if your child has eczema?
Eczema Is an Umbrella Term
This skin condition has many types under the umbrella term, eczema. They include: atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, and dyshidrotic dermatitis.
Atoptic dermatitis is the most common form to affect young children from six months to age five.
It causes dry, itchy, red, and inflamed skin. Not only does a child suffer with these symptoms, but children can develop allergies and blisters as part of the skin condition because it weakens the immune system leading to infections.
Eczema in Babies
In young babies eczema usually affects the face, scalp, arms, and legs. In some cases it can be severe and the itch will make the baby almost inconsolable. Many environmental factors can trigger eczema in infants like soaps, shampoos, and cleansers. Even dry air and certain ointments can cause eczema in infants.
A pediatric dermatologist like Dr. Dean Goodless can prescribe a topical steroid or antihistamine to relieve the baby’s itching. Parents may need to use mittens on older infants to prevent new flare ups.
Eczema in Toddlers
Prevention and treatments are similar for both infants and toddlers. Check with Dr. Goodless before beginning any treatments if your toddler is starting to have issues with eczema.
Triggers can be almost anything and every child is different: heat and sweating, dry skin, allergens like pet dander, pollen, and dust, products like laundry detergents and soaps, etc. The best way to help your child is to know their triggers and symptoms so you can keep it in control.
Basic Facts About Eczema in Children
- There is no cure for this skin condition.
- Eczema will change as your child grows and will show up in knees and arm joints and other areas.
- Eczema is not contagious.
- The National Eczema Association recommends these products.
- Eczema is common and usually has a family/genetic association.
- Drinking lots of water, getting rid of allergens in your home like pollen, dust, tobacco smoke and mold, and having your child wear breathable fabrics like cotton can help to prevent future flare ups.
Get treatment as soon as you think your child may have eczema. Treating it early can save your baby or young child hours of suffering.
Contact Goodless Dermatology at (407) 566-1616 as soon as possible if you suspect your child is showing signs of eczema.