Eczema is a skin inflammation causing red, itchy rashes that become blistery, scaly, swollen or scabby with continued irritation. The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis, and the two terms are often used interchangeably. Atopic dermatitis is common in people with a family history of allergy, asthma, hay fever or food allergies. In some people, eczema can also occur on contact with soaps, latex, metals and other substances that may otherwise be harmless to other people.
About Eczema
Although eczema can develop at any age, about 10 percent of children will have eczema at some time during childhood. In infants and young children, eczema may first appear as red, itchy rashes on the scalp -- also called cradle cap, mouth, cheeks and back on hands. Older children and adults may develop eczema rash on the wrists, face, inside the elbows and behind the knees.
Food Triggers
Certain foods can trigger or exacerbate eczema in people who have a genetic tendency for allergies. Cow's milk, egg, soy, wheat, peanut, nuts, fish and cashew are the most common foods that can provoke a flareup of itchy, eczema rash. The symptoms may occur within an hour of eating the offending food, and the rash may last for days. Specifically, milk, eggs and peanuts can provoke flareups of eczema in babies as young as 4 months old. According to a 2008 study published in "Current Allergy and Asthma Reports," babies who are highly sensitive to milk and eggs are more likely to have severe eczema that persist through childhood.
Food Allergy and Eczema
Although the immune mechanisms of eczema and food allergies are related, certain foods may trigger your eczema even if you have no other symptoms of food allergies. On the other hand, food may just be one of your triggers if you have chronic or severe eczema. If you suspect that certain foods trigger your eczema, consult with your physician to properly evaluate your condition. An allergist may perform a skin prick test and blood test to identify all possible food and other allergens present in your blood, including other triggers in your environment.
Food Avoidance and Treatment
An important part of treating eczema is to relieve the itch and prevent its flareup. If your baby has food-related eczema, you may have to switch her to extensively hydrolyzed protein formula until her eczema is under control. Avoid food and food products that contain the allergen you are sensitive to. Keep your skin moist with emollients such as fragrance-free petroleum jelly. Your doctor may prescribe topical or oral corticosteroids. Stay away from stress, extreme temperatures and humidity, which may also exacerbate your symptoms.
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