Eczema is a common inflammatory skin condition that affects approximately 20 percent of babies, toddlers and young children, according to BabyCenter, an informational website for parents and parents-to-be. This condition, which is also called atopic or infantile dermatitis, can cause a number of skin symptoms in affected babies. A parent or caregiver who notices the appearance of eczema symptoms in their baby should seek additional care from a physician.
Skin Rash
The most common symptom associated with eczema in babies is the appearance of a skin rash. Skin rash symptoms can develop on any region of the body, but typically begin across the scalp, face, feet or hands of babies, explains MedlinePlus, a health information website supported by the National Institutes of Health. The affected skin can appear red, inflamed or swollen and may be tender to the touch. Babies with this condition can develop sporadic skin rash episodes that vary in severity. Symptoms may arise suddenly and persist for several weeks or months before resolving. A severe skin rash can be a sign of an alternate medical condition and should be discussed with an affected baby's doctor immediately.
Dry Skin
Babies who develop skin rash symptoms due to eczema can also develop dry, flaking skin at the affected site. The skin may form a discolored or yellowish crust that flakes, blisters or oozes fluid. Thick patches of dry, irritated skin can arise across the entire body. These eczema symptoms in babies may be exacerbated by certain irritating substances, such as laundry detergent or bath soaps, warns MedlinePlus. Excessively dry skin can be uncomfortable for an affected baby and may require additional medical care from a health professional.
Itching
Red, irritated, dry skin patches that form across a baby's body due to eczema can be accompanied by sensations of itching at the affected skin region. Babies or infants who frequently scratch at their skin may exacerbate eczema skin rash symptoms, reports KidsHealth, a children's health information website supported by the Nemours Foundation. Frequent scratching can also increase a baby's risk of developing a skin infection at the site of irritation. Clothing or soaps may intensify skin itching sensations in babies with eczema. These uncomfortable eczema symptoms in babies should be evaluated by a doctor as they can also be signs of alternate medical problems. A baby's doctor may recommend the use of an over-the-counter or prescription medication to help alleviate itchy skin symptoms in infants.
