Itchy rashes are a common childhood ailment, but when skin becomes flaky, red, oozy and painful, it is likely eczema. Often referred to as atopic dermatitis, eczema usually begins by age 5, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, although infants and older children are not immune. Although the exact causes of eczema in kids remain uncertain, many researchers believe that eczema is the culmination of several factors.
Genetics
Genetics clearly play a role in pediatric and adult eczema, and kids with eczema usually have family members with hay fever, asthma or other allergies, including eczema. In fact, the KidsHealth website estimates that approximately 50 percent of children with eczema will eventually develop hay fever or even asthma.
According to the Stanford School of Medicine’s Department of Genetics, genes play a large part in determining if the immune system will react to an allergen and how strongly their reaction will be. It is likely that several genes must get together in just the right combination for a person to develop eczema.
Allergies and the Immune System
Dry skin is the main culprit leading to eczema, and according to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, allergies resulting from an overactive immune system contribute to this dryness. New Zealand's DermNet website writes that children with atopic dermatitis often experience an imbalance of white blood cells known as “T helpers,” which work to support the body’s immune system. Still others have high levels of the antibodies or white blood cells associated with allergies.
The Barrier Defect
Evidence suggests eczema breakouts are in part the result of an inherited skin abnormality referred to as the “barrier defect,” according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Children with a barrier defect have microscopic gaps in their skin. These gaps allow the skin to lose water rapidly while also allowing germs to enter.
Environmental Factors
Environmental factors, including the weather and even physical or emotional stress, can trigger eczema flare-ups, according to KidsHealth. Climate plays a large role in the severity of eczema in both children and adults, according to DermNet. Eczema triggered during cold winter months is harder to treat, which is why dermatologists recommend home dehumidifiers as a preventive measure. Conversely, many parents discover their children’s eczema improves during the summer months thanks to ultraviolet light exposure. Parents should be careful, however, because while summer weather can be beneficial, other parts of summer can make things worse. Sunburn, getting too hot and prolonged exposure to chlorinated pools without rinsing in fresh water can trigger eczema during the warm summer months.
