Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a generic term for an inflammatory condition of the skin typically characterized by redness, dryness, itching, crusting, scaling and oozing. It is fairly common in children. In infants, it commonly affects the face and scalp. In older children, it generally appears on the face and forearms. A dry rash with itching is the most characteristic sign. Scratching will worsen the condition and can cause infection. A child with eczema usually has a parent who suffers from atopy, a hypersensitivity reaction to allergens. If present as an infant, eczema usually resolves by age 2. For some, however, the condition can flare up throughout adulthood.
Food Allergies
Food allergens are common triggers of eczema. The most common ones include cow's milk and dairy in general, wheat and gluten, eggs and soy. However, any food can cause a flare up, especially if it's something the child eats on a daily basis. The key is to rotate foods and eliminate those you know are, or suspect to be, allergenic. Doing an elimination diet can pin-point the culprits. It's more cost effective than doing a food allergy blood test, and is likely to be more accurate. By completely eliminating the suspect foods for one month, the body has time to heal, especially with the help of beneficial supplements, such as probiotics. Symptoms should be alleviated after one month, at which point it's time to reintroduce the foods one at a time every 10 days or so. After reintroducing a food, there may be an immediate reaction or it could take a few days. If there's a reaction, completely eliminate that food from the diet and give the body a couple of days to restore itself before reintroducing another food. If there's absolutely no reaction within 10 days, it's safe to say there's no food allergy.
Seasonal and Environmental Allergies
Allergens in general, including seasonal allergies, pet dander, ragweed, pollen and mold, can trigger an eczema flare up in children. While it may not be possible to remove the allergen from your child's world, such as a cherished family pet or the sycamore tree in the backyard, limiting exposure to the allergenic triggers and boosting the child's immune system can help reduce the severity and frequency of eczema symptoms.
Cold, Dry Weather
Cold, dry weather can lead to dry skin, causing it to become red, irritated, inflamed, itchy and scaly, causing eczema flare ups on the upper body. It's important, and highly recommended, to keep the skin moisturized. It's of the utmost importance to choose a moisturizer for your child that's free of harsh ingredients including parabens, synthetic fragrances, colorants and urea, which has been shown to be a primary cause of atopic dermatitis.
Irritants Found in Personal Care Products
Harsh ingredients found in detergents, soaps and moisturizers can cause atopic dermatitis that can lead to thickened and cracked skin, especially on the hands, which can become extremely painful. Using products that are free and clear of irritants is extremely important if you have a child who is prone to eczema flareups.
Hot Weather and Perspiration
Hot weather can cause dryness, but it can also induce sweating, which can trigger a flareup of eczema on the upper body. Reducing exposure to excessive heat and sweating is beneficial. Applying a cold compress will not only help cool your kiddo down, but it can help relieve itching, pain and inflammation.
Bacteria
Bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, can also be a culprit in eczema flareups in children. Eradicating infectious bacteria can help keep eczema in remission, as there is no known cure.
Emotional Stress
It's important for your child to learn ways to cope with stress for many reasons. Eczema can be brought on by emotional stress. A calm child is a happy child.
