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Learning The Basics About Infantile Eczema
By Pat Wellington | October 22, 2009
All over the U. S. And Canada there are thousands of children who are afflicted with infantile eczema. Rashes are common in childhood and they can be itchy but infantile eczema is more aggressive and the child constantly scratches making the condition much worse. Eczema refers to several skin conditions in which the skin becomes red, irritated and at times, fluid-filled bumps that ooze. Atopic dermatitis is also known as infantile eczema.
There are many questions to answer such as how do children get this skin condition? Are there any symptoms to be aware of and if a child gets this, how long will it persist? There are other questions as well, can a parent do anything to prevent this problem and what treatments are available?
First, how do children get this? Infantile eczema can occur due to several reasons. Overheating, stress, perfumed soaps, scented laundry detergents, synthetic materials and metal clasps that touch the skin are many ways this can be contracted. Children are generally between 2 and 6 months old when this develops and becomes apparent before the age of five. It may also be genetic as children who get it, often have parents who have hay fever or asthma. This skin condition is not contagious.
Itchy, dry skin is a signal that eczema might be an issue. Red rashes on the cheeks is the first sign of a baby possibly developing infantile eczema and the rash spreads down the neck toward the diaper area. With age, the eczema starts to appear behind the knees, in the bend of the arms and on the wrists.
Infantile eczema goes into remission and symptoms may even disappear for months or years at a time. For many children, it starts to improve by the age of 6 and may experience flare-ups throughout the rest of their life. For some kids, this condition may improve then return at the onset of puberty.
There is no way to prevent eczema from starting. There are some things parents can do to lessen the chances. Know the possible triggers such as perfumed soaps and detergents, pollen, winter air, pollen, sweating and excessive heat are some things to eliminate to help in prevention. Numerous scientists are of the belief that eczema is genetic.
Treating infantile eczema is often done with topical corticosteroids. These are also known as cortisone or steroid creams. Non-steroid medications are available as well. Some doctor may recommend antihistamines to help reduce the itching or topical antibiotics to prevent secondary infections.
Eczema is common, yet easily treated and children need not suffer. There are options. Ask your family physician what is best for your child.
Don’t let baby eczema stop your little one enjoying life please visit the eczema skin care blog for infantile eczema and for additional information on stopping their eczema allergies.
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