What is Eczema
Eczema is a common skin condition seen in general practice particularly among infants. It is also known as atopic dermatitis. It is a chronic (long term) condition that causes itchiness. Most frequently found on the face, wrists and inner surfaces of the elbows and knees. The affected skin may become thickened.
Usually children get eczema before the age of 5 years. Most children will grow up without this problem if they do not have allergies or asthma. It is not an infection.
Symptoms
Patches of chronically itchy, dry, thickened skin usually on the hands, neck, face and legs
Redness, scaling and changes in skin colour
Small bumps or blisters which ooze fluid
Causes
It is a hereditary condition
It is not an allergy itself, but allergies can trigger eczema
It can develop on skin that is dry, itchy and sensitive to things like heat, wool and rough surfaces
Food allergy or allergy to any substances can aggravate eczema
It can be triggered by many things including: viral infections, irritants such as soaps, detergents, or perfumes and other infections
Treatment
Consult your doctor to confirm the diagnosis. The doctor will prescribe some or all of these :
Antihistamine for itchiness
Moisturizing lotion, cream or ointment to control the dryness and itchiness
Steroid creams for severe cases
Antibiotic if secondary bacterial infection is present
The above treatment only helps to control the symptoms but not to cure it. Eczema can disappear and reappear if expose to allergens.
What You Can Do
Keep your child in a cool room
Avoid hot bath and overdressing
Use soft cloth preferably cotton
Avoid contact with scratchy fabric
Do not use soap during bathing
Put a moisturizer after drying the child
Look for suspicious food allergy and confirm with the doctor