Eczema is a form of atopic dermatitis that manifests itself in the form of dry, rough skin that can or cannot be covered in a red and intensely itchy rash. According to renowned pediatrician Dr. Sears, eczema affects approximately 10 percent of infants and children. "The cause is mainly genetic," says Dr. Sears. "It is the result of an inborn tendency toward dry skin and allergies." The key to successful treatment is finding a way to moisturize and treat the allergies simultaneously.
Basic First Steps
Apply non-irritating oil such as sweet almond or vitamin E to the child's skin immediately following baths, before the water evaporates from the skin. This helps lock in moisture. Dr. Sears also recommends Aquaphor, Eucerin, or Keri lotion. Hot temperatures irritate the skin, so keep bath water lukewarm. Colloidal oatmeal baths calm the skin, provided they are relatively brief---prolonged periods of soaking may further irritate the skin. Avoid tight-fitting clothes made of non-breathable materials. Loose cotton is a good choice.
Environmental Modifications
Use only cleansers, detergents and sunscreens that do not contain perfumes, dyes or preservatives that may irritate the skin. Instead of purchasing commercial baby wipes, look for environmentally friendly brands or try cutting up old receiving blankets and simply wetting them with warm water. Make sure all air filters in the home are current on their cleaning schedules. A freestanding air purifier near the child's sleeping area may further reduce environmental allergy triggers.
Dietary Modifications
A food diary and/or an elimination diet may reveal what foods may trigger eczema in the child. Dairy, soy, wheat, tree nuts, egg whites, and shellfish are the primary offenders. Most foods, dairy in particular, take weeks to leave the system, so patience is important. Dr. Sears recommends flaxseed oil to his patients who suffer from eczema.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic treatment may be effective in treating eczema. The theory is that eczema is a manifestation of an attack on the immune system, which is linked to the central nervous system. Chiropractic treatments correct subluxations (or misalignments) in the spine that adversely affect these systems' abilities to function normally.
Medication
An over-the-counter antihistamine like Benadryl (for children 6 months or older) or Zyrtec (for children over 2) may help control symptoms. Pediatricians also prescribe steroid cortisone creams for particularly severe flare-ups. None of these medications should be used long-term. Try to use them only in extreme outbreaks---it is likely that gentler treatment methods will be effective once the outbreak is more under control.
