Can Eczema Affect Babies and Children?

Eczema can also affect infants of just 6 to 12 weeks. They can get Atopic Dermatitis as a patchy facial rash, which can become red and scaly. The rash may appear on the scalp or forehead. It can worsen due to moisture from drooling. Sometimes Atopic Dermatitis goes away by the age of 2 years. However, 50% of the people who had this condition in their childhood, have it as an adult also.

Another condition known as Cradle Cap develops in infants in which yellow, oily, scaly patches appear on the scalp. They generally disappear without treatment between the age of 8 to 12 months.

In some Children, a rash appears on the inside of elbows, behind the knees, around the mouth, sides of neck, or on wrists, arms & hands. The children who suffer from Atopic Dermatitis are susceptible to experience food allergies.

What Medicines from a Doctor Can Help Your Child in Eczema?

Eczema is generally treated with the help of topical medicines. Therefore your child’s doctor may prescribe medications such as:

  • Mild cortisone cream or ointment: These topical steroids help to relieve the inflammation. If this medication does not work, then stronger medicines may be prescribed by your doctor.
  • Topical immunomodulators: This medication may be prescribed for a child who is above 2 years of age.
  • Coal tar or Anthralin creams or ointments: These creams and ointments are used for thickened skin areas.

Other treatments:

  • Antibiotic creams or pills in case the skin of the child is infected
  • Immunosuppressants
  • Phototherapy: In this therapy skin of the child is exposed to UV light
  • Oral or intravenous steroids for short period of treatment

How Can Lifestyle Changes Help in Managing Eczema in Children?

Following are some of the measures that can help parents in managing eczema in their child:

  • Moisturize: Apply prescribed lotions, ointments or creams to the skin of your child right after a bath, while the skin is still cool to prevent dry skin. Dry skin is one of the major triggers for eczema symptoms.
  • Prevent scratching: Eczema itches and scratching the affected skin makes it worse. Therefore teach your child not to scratch their skin. Otherwise, keep the nails of your child trimmed.
  • Choose breathable fabric: This will prevent scratching and irritation on the skin of your child.
  • Avoid heat: Avoid hot baths or showers and keep your child away from too much activity as this can cause flare-ups.
  • Avoid allergens: Allergens such as certain foods, dust, pollens can elevate the symptoms of eczema.
  • Keep your child hydrated: Make sure that your child drinks enough water. This will help them to stay moisturized.
  • Avoid scents: Avoid soaps, lotions, and detergents that have a scent as they can trigger the condition of eczema.
  • Educate your child: Once your child is old enough, try to teach them basics tips and smart skin habits. This will help your child to prevent flare-ups.