Eczema is a general term that refers to a variety of skin conditions characterized by irritation and redness. The most common form of the condition, also called atopic dermatitis or infantile eczema, appears on the cheeks and faces of babies. Babies can have eczema elsewhere on their bodies, as well.
The Basics
Atopic dermatitis affects 10 to 20 percent of the world's population, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Approximately 65 percent develop symptoms before their first birthdays, and almost 90 percent develop the condition before the age of 5. In addition to irritation, symptoms of the disorder can include a rash and skin cracking, swelling, crusting and scaling. In some cases, patches of eczema can ooze fluid.
Eczema Factors
Your child cannot catch or spread atopic dermatitis, according to the Academy of Dermatology. The condition has a strong genetic component, and those who develop symptoms typically have relatives with eczema, asthma or allergic conditions such as hay fever. Your child also has an increased risk of developing symptoms if you live in an urban area or cold climate, have a small family, have relatively high economic status or gave birth later in life, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Additionally, girls have a slightly higher chance of manifesting symptoms than boys.
Chronic Eczema
Atopic dermatitis in babies and young children frequently improves over time, according to the Academy of Dermatology. In some cases, all signs of the condition disappear without treatment by the time children reach the age of 2. But in roughly 50 percent of cases, childhood symptoms turn into chronic eczema. Some children with eczema experience improvements after the age of 5 or 6, only to have a recurrence during puberty, according to the Nemours Foundation.
Treatment
Treatments for atopic dermatitis typically aim to ease any itchiness, reduce inflammation, decrease infection risks and increase skin hydration, according to the Academy of Dermatology. Methods commonly used for these purposes include cold compresses, skin emollients such as petroleum jelly, corticosteroids and sedative antihistamines. If your child has moderate or severe symptoms, she may also receive a light-based treatment called phototherapy. To effectively deal with the condition, you must also give your child proper skin care and avoid situations that could worsen symptoms.
Flare-Up Prevention
The Nemours Foundation lists a variety of factors that can trigger or worsen eczema. Examples include dust, mold, excessive heat, exposure to dry air, tobacco smoke, wool or other coarse fabrics, pollen, sweating, animal dander and the use of harsh detergents or soaps. Avoiding these triggers can help prevent flare-ups. You can also reduce flare-ups and potential infections or skin damage by discouraging your child from scratching any affected skin. When you wash your child, use nonsoap cleansers or mild soap.
