Eczema, sometimes called atopic dermatitis, is a common skin disorder, affecting as many as 20 percent of all infants and small children, according to BabyCenter. Eczema in infants is not an allergic reaction, although allergies and skin irritants often make the problem worse. Most people with eczema show symptoms before their first birthday, reports the Merck Manual Home Health Handbook. A number of treatments -- along with trial and error -- can help clear the tiny blistered and reddened, rough patches and make your child more comfortable.
Soothing the Itching
Scratching the skin makes eczema worse, but because the skin itches, infants do scratch -- and scratch. Topical ointments that reduce itching as well as oral antihistamines can decrease the itch. Baths in tepid, not hot water or cool compresses can help decrease the itch. Cut your baby's fingernails short to avoid scratching open the areas and increasing the risk of infection.
Moisturizing the Skin
Dry skin is one of the hallmarks of eczema. Keeping the skin moist helps relieve not only the itch but the irritation. Emollients and moisturizers such as petroleum jelly or vegetable oil help keep the skin from drying out. apply moisturizing ointments right after a both,while the skin is still damp for best absorption.
Decreasing the Bacteria
A study conducted by researchers from the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University published in the May 2009 issue of the official journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, "Pediatrics," found that dilute bleach baths decreased skin colonization with Staphylococcus Aureus, one of the bacteria that causes secondary infections and worsening irritation in atopic dermatitis. According to MayoClinic.com, adding 1/2 cup of household bleach to a bathtub filled with 40 gallons of warm water no more than twice a week for five to 10 minutes at a time improves itchiness, redness and scaling by decreasing bacteria. Do not submerge your baby's head in this mixture and keep it away from cracked areas and the eyes. Ask your doctor before using this treatment.
Taming the Immune System
Corticosteroid ointments and oral medications can decrease the immune response that creates the symptoms of eczema. Over-the-counter creams contain less active drug than prescription medications, but use the lowest dose that's effective, to reduce the risk of side effects and use only pea-sized amounts. Immune-modulating creams containing tacrolimus or pimocromlimus may also help. Oral steroids have side effects that may restrict their long-term use but they may help a stubborn case or severe flare-up.
References
- BabyCenter; Eczema; January 2011
- The Merck Manuals Home Health Handbook; Dermatitis; Peter C. Schalock, M.D.; December 2006
- MayoClinic.com; Atopic Dematitis; Lawrence Gibson, M.D.; August 2011
- Asthma and Allergy Medical Group: Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
- "Pediatrics"; Treatment of Staphylococcus aureus Colonization in Atopic Dermatitis Decreases Disease Severity ; Jennifer Huang, M.D., et al.; May 2009
- DermNet NZ: Topical Steroids
