One of the most common concerns for parents is eczema, a skin condition that affects young children. Sometimes it is related to allergies, but not always. But there is a strong connection between the two. Studies have shown that one in three newborns may develop this condition. So, today we will talk about what eczema is, how it is related to allergies , and how we can manage this condition.
What is the truth about eczema?
Eczema is a common, but somewhat annoying, skin condition. Let's take a look at some of the basics.
Remember, eczema is not something that can be spread from one part of the body to another, nor from one child to another. So don't be unnecessarily afraid of this.
| Feature / Information | Description |
|---|---|
| Main symptoms | The main symptom is a dry, itchy, red rash that looks like a blister. If the child scratches these, they may ooze a watery liquid and then crust over. |
| Common locations | It is most commonly seen on the hands, elbows, legs, behind the knees, palms, and face. |
| The child's discomfort | These rashes can be very uncomfortable for the child. The constant itching may even keep them awake at night. |
| Triggers | This condition can be aggravated by certain soaps, cosmetics, cleaning chemicals, wool clothing, dust mites, pollen, pet dander, certain foods, and dry weather. |
| Nature of the disease | Most of the time, this comes and goes. That means it may be less at times and more at times. But the good news is that for many children, especially young children, it almost completely disappears as they get older. |
What is the connection between eczema and allergies?
Simply put, there is a great friendship between the two. When we understand how eczema and allergies affect each other, it becomes easier for us to manage this condition.
- Food and Eczema: Children with allergies to foods like milk and peanuts are more likely to develop eczema. However, not all eczema is caused by a food allergy.
- Family history: If you or your partner has allergies or asthma, your child may be at slightly higher risk of developing eczema.
- Future risk: Also, children who have eczema as children are more likely to develop conditions like allergies and asthma as they grow up. This is called ' Atopic March '.
- The main thing: The most important lesson we can take from this is that keeping your child away from triggers is a great help in controlling eczema .
How do we treat and control this?
If your child has these symptoms, the first thing you should do is not panic and see a qualified doctor, that is, your doctor. He will accurately diagnose the condition and prescribe the necessary treatment. There are many ways to control eczema and allergies.
Treatments the doctor may suggest
- Tests: Your doctor may order allergy tests to see if your child has any allergies. For example, they may test for allergies to foods like milk, eggs, peanuts, soy, seafood, and wheat.
- Dietary changes: As advised by your doctor, you can try eliminating the foods you suspect are causing the allergy from your child's diet one by one. This will help us determine if any particular food is causing the problem. Never eliminate nutritious foods from your child's diet without first consulting a doctor.
- Ointments and Moisturizers: This is the most important part of eczema management. Using ointments to keep the skin moisturized can go a long way in controlling mild eczema. The best way to do this is to dry your skin thoroughly after bathing or showering and apply a thick moisturizer while it is still slightly damp.
- Medication: If the condition is more severe, your doctor may prescribe a steroid cream or specific topical medications such as a Calcineurin inhibitor, PDE4 inhibitor, or Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor cream . It is important to use these only as directed by your doctor , for the prescribed duration, and in the prescribed amount.
Things you can do at home to stop the problem before it happens
As important as treatment is preventing the condition from getting worse, here are some simple things you can do to help.
- Home environment: Reduce the environment that triggers allergies in your child by reducing dust mites and pet dander in your home. Wash bedding and pillowcases regularly and keep them clean.
- Moisturize your skin: Dry skin is a major cause of eczema flare-ups. So, keep your skin moisturized at all times. Apply a good moisturizer at least twice a day.
- Nails: Keep your child's nails trimmed short. This way, even if they scratch, they won't cause too much damage to the skin. If your baby scratches themselves at night without realizing it, you can also put socks on their hands.
- Heat and Sweat: Reduce your child's sweating during the summer. Heat and sweat can make this condition worse. If he does sweat, wipe him off immediately with a clean cloth.
- Soaps and cleansers: Use non-scented, mild soaps or body washes. Avoid products that contain harsh chemicals.
- Clothing: Wear loose, soft clothing made of cotton. Avoid rough fabrics like wool and nylon touching your skin.
- Weather: Protect your child from cold, dry weather. Dress them well when going out in the cold (but not so much that they overheat). If the air in your home is dry during the winter, you can use a humidifier.
Take-Home Message
- Eczema is a non-contagious skin condition that is common among children.
- This can be associated with conditions like allergies and asthma, but that's not always the case.
- Keeping your child's skin moisturized is very important in managing eczema.
- Identify and keep your child away from triggers such as harsh soaps, woolen clothes, dust, and certain foods.
- If you notice symptoms of eczema on your child's skin, do not self-treat and always seek the advice of a doctor.
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