Eczema is a skin condition that affects about 10 percent of children and causes dry, irritated and itchy skin, according to the website AskDrSears. Eczema is a condition that is impacted by dry skin and allergens. A child can experience his first eczema outbreak as early as 2 months of age or up to 5 years old. Most children outgrow eczema by the time they enter grade school, according to KidsHealth. Eczema should be treated under a doctor's supervision and treatment can include lifestyle changes and medications.
About
The website Keep Kids Healthy states that no one knows the exact cause of eczema in children and there is no cure. Doctors do know that eczema is triggered by certain factors including allergens, irritants and dry skin, which is useful knowledge when treating the condition. Eczema is believed to be a genetic condition, passed down from the parents, according to KidsHealth. Children with parents who have allergies or asthma are more likely to develop eczema.
Symptoms
Childhood eczema begins as small, red dots that become itchy. If the skin is dry or the child itches the affected area, the skin become inflameds and extremely irritated. The skin can break, ooze and crust over, making the child very uncomfortable, according to AskDrSears. Irritated skin perpetuates the condition. Calming and soothing the skin is the primary objective when treating the symptoms.
Lifestyle Treatment
Avoiding allergens and irritants are the first step in treating childhood eczema, according to AskDrSears. If the child is allergic to dust, pollen or pets, it can cause the eczema to flare up. Irritants can include dry air, cigarette smoke, air pollution and fragrance in detergents and soaps. Dress your child in cotton and loose-fitting clothing to allow air to get to the skin. Use a moisturizing lotion on the child a few times a day to keep the skin moist and calm.
Medical Treatment
KidsHealth states that over-the-counter antihistamines and prescribed corticosteroid lotions are used to treat eczema in children. Antihistamines should only be used on children by a pediatrician's recommendation. These drugs work by restricting the immune system from releasing histamine in the blood, which leads to allergy symptoms. A pediatrician may prescribe topical corticosteroid creams in severe cases to reduce inflammation.
Considerations
See a doctor if the child develops a fever, warmth around the affected areas, puss or blisters as the result of eczema, according to KidsHealth. Cracked skin from eczema can lead to a skin infection, according to AskDrSears.
