Soothing childhood eczema
Eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) is common in young children, and results in itchy, inflamed, cracked and dry patches of skin that can affect the whole body. It’s more likely in children who have what’s called atopy – an inherited predisposition towards allergic reactions such as hay fever and asthma. This means that if you or another member of your family suffers from eczema or another allergy, your child is more likely to develop it also – 60% of children with atopic eczema have one parent with the condition, while children have an 80% risk of developing it if both their parents have it.
Many young children who have eczema also go on to develop asthma. About 80% of atopic eczema cases start before a child is 5 years of age, and the majority of those children develop it during their first 12 months.
What are the symptoms of eczema?
You will notice red, irritated looking patches of cracked, broken skin on your child’s body that may become sore and weepy if she scratches (this often occurs at night as the skin heats up in bed). The scratched areas may take on a thickened appearance and feel hot to the touch. Blisters may develop.
Eczema can occur in every area of the body, but is most common on the hands, feet, arms, behind the knees, ankles, wrists, face, neck, and upper chest. Your child also may have patches of eczema on her eyelids, and may develop patchy eyelashes and eyebrows due to rubbing and scratching.
In many cases, a vicious circle is established: the eczema itches, your child makes it worse by scratching and then it itches even more. The skin can end up raw and infected, and it can be so uncomfortable your child’s mood, behavior, and ability to concentrate may be affected.
Treating and preventing eczema
Prevent your child from scratching by having her wear scratch mitts at night, and keep her nails as short as possible. If you pediatrician advises the use of steroid creams, use them as directed. If she develops an infection due to scratching, she may be prescribed antibiotic ointment.
Avoid giving your child hot showers and baths, which heat and irritate the skin, and keep it moisturized with mild emollients (your pediatrician will prescribe or recommend one). If your child attends daycare or school, liaise with them to ensure the moisturizer is applied while she is there.
Dress your child in loose, cool clothes in soft cotton (avoid wool) to allow air to circulate and keep the skin cool, especially in the summer. In the winter, promote a degree of humidity in you home by using a humidifier or placing bowl of water around your home (stow them well out of reach of your child).
Avoid using scented soaps and bubble baths and if your washer has an extra rinse option, use it to help rinse all traces of washing detergent out of your child’s clothes and bedding.
Environmental factors can exacerbate allergic reactions such as eczema. The three most common allergens for atopic eczema are house dust mites, pollen and animal fur (studies suggest that children who are exposed to cats soon after birth may have an increased risk of eczema). You can reduce the number of house dust mites in your home with simple precautions such as getting rid of carpets and by covering your child’s mattress and pillow with allergen-proof covers. Your child’s soft toys are likely infested – every two to three weeks, freeze them overnight and then wash them in as hot water as they will stand.
About 10% of children with eczema are affected by food allergens such as the proteins in cows’ milk, eggs, and wheat. If you suspect food might be causing your baby’s eczema don’t restrict any food groups without consulting your pediatrician.
For a significant proportion of children, eczema improves as they get older.