Eczema is frequently observed and regarded as a typical yet long-term, non-contagious skin condition in numerous infants and children.
Although it isn’t indicative of a serious underlying health issue, managing it effectively is essential to avert complications, enhance comfort, and promote better sleep.
Here’s a breakdown of what eczema is, why it is normal, what symptoms it shows and where, and how to manage this condition.
What is Eczema?
Also referred to as atopic dermatitis, Eczema is a prevalent skin condition that persists for longer. It manifests as dry, itchy, red, and inflamed patches on the skin, within the initial years of children’s lives. Often, this chronic disorder is hereditary, which affects individuals and families across generations.
There’s no definitive cure for eczema. However, with effective symptom management strategies and incorporating baby eczema cream in their skincare routine, you can enhance the overall quality of your child’s life.
Discover Why it’s Normal
While it’s normal, it requires proper attention and precautionary measures to be taken.
- Prevalence – Eczema isn’t uncommon. It affects more than 20% of children throughout the world. Many cases emerge during the delicate infant stage of life. The high occurrence of this condition underscores its importance within pediatric health and well-being.
- Cause – The origins of eczema are complex. They commonly stem from a combination of genetic predisposition. That’s what compromises the skin’s natural barrier and an immune system that reacts excessively to irritants.
- Not Contagious – It’s highly essential to note that eczema isn’t an infectious condition. It cannot be transmitted from one person to another. So, there should be no concerns about its spread.
Common Symptoms and Locations
Wondering what symptoms eczema shows and where they emerge on children’s bodies? If so, continue reading to find out!
- Infants – In the youngest population, red, inflamed patches appear predominantly on the cheeks, forehead, and scalp. Also, it seldom impacts the diaper area. No doubt, this early manifestation can be distressing for infants and their caregivers alike.
- Growing Children – As children grow, eczema may spread to more common areas of their bodies. It emerges in the creases of the elbows and behind the knees. Additionally, it begins to appear on the neck, wrists, and ankles of older children.
- Appearance – Eczema’s visual representation may vary significantly. In individuals with lighter skin tone, affected areas often appear bright red. On the contrary, in those with darker skin, the patches may present as brown, purple, or grey. These emphasise the need for proper diagnosis, irrespective of skin colour.
Here’s What You Need to Do
It’s now time to check out some possible measures you should take to relieve your newborn baby or child.
- Gentle Skincare – It’s crucial to implement a gentle skincare routine. Consider choosing fragrance-free products to reduce irritation. Prioritise breathable fabrics for clothing and commit to everyday moisturising to soothe and protect the skin.
- Identify Triggers – Knowing and identifying common triggers can play a pivotal role in managing eczema. Frequent culprits include sweat, saliva, dry air, pet dander, smoke, certain detergents, and specific soaps. All of which can exacerbate symptoms.
- Consult a Professional – Suppose symptoms become severe in your child or newborn, persist over time, or are accompanied by signs of infection, such as the emergence of pus-filled bumps. In that case, seeking medical advice from a healthcare provider is paramount.
Be mindful that early medical intervention and taking care of your child can significantly reduce the likelihood of complications and enhance their overall skin health.
