Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, is a skin disorder that affects about 20 percent of infants and young children, according to the Baby Center. It typically affects the forehead, cheeks and scalp, but may appear on other parts of the body, as well. Common eczema triggers include temperature changes, scratchy fabric and pet allergies. Occasionally, certain foods also trigger the condition, according to Dr. Greene of DrGreene.com.
Basics
Eczema is a noncontagious skin rash characterized by dry, intensely itchy skin. Scratching the skin may cause it to become weepy and inflamed. Eczema does not only affect infants. While most children outgrow eczema within a few years, for some, it is a lifelong condition, says Greene.
Food Triggers
Eczema is not caused by food allergies, but some foods may prompt flare-ups. According to the Baby Center, likely triggers include cow's milk, eggs, soy, wheat, peanuts and fish. The center recommends eliminating one suspected food at a time to try to identify the culprit. This is not a quick and easy solution; wait a few weeks between each test to ensure that all traces of food have left your baby's system.
Considerations
Certain foods may exacerbate eczema, but it is important to also consider other factors, such as environment and lifestyle. In fact, while food plays a role in up to 30 percent of child eczema cases, it is the main trigger in only about 10 percent of them, says the Baby Center. Work with your doctor to discuss all possible causes and courses of treatment.
Treatment
There is no true cure for eczema, so identifying allergies or sensitivities to certain foods is not guaranteed to prevent flare-ups. Learning how to treat symptoms like itching and dryness will make the condition more manageable. Dr. Maud, author of the website Baby Medical Questions and Answers, recommends daily, lukewarm baths coupled with moisturizing cream or oil treatments to keep skin hydrated. For babies with very dry skin, it may be necessary to apply a moisturizer every hour, says Maud. Another tip is to use hypoallergenic laundry detergent, cleansers and shampoos.
Theory
Breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby's life may help prevent the development of eczema, according to Greene. It is unknown, however, whether breastfeeding can help babies who already have eczema.
