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Baby eczema

Posted by Roshni | August 13, 2008 .

eczema-1.jpgEczema is broad term used for the number of different skin conditions that cause dry, red, irritated skin. Eczema can occur anywhere on the body, but for babies the majority of occurrences are on the scalp, forehead, and chest, and around the joints.  Common symptoms of eczema in babies are as listed below:

* Reddening, cracking, swelling, or scaling of the skin.

* Plump and fairly red pimples arise, mostly on the cheeks, forehead and on the back side.

* Whiteheads are also observed.

* The baby may have a high fever and have irritated looking skin.

* If baby clothes are cleaned in strong detergents, the skin can react quickly and get affected as the powder or solution is too harsh.

There are different types of baby eczemas, in that too large numbers of babies are infected by atopic baby eczema. Atopic eczema is hereditary and occurs during 2-3 months of age. The name atopic refers to an oversensitivity of the immune system when it reacts to the external environment. However, it is not possible to say that if other family members are suffering from the relative diseases, such as asthma or high fever, then only the child is going to be affected by baby eczema.

Different irritants or allergic contacts cause baby eczema. Direct contact with irritants can cause a burning kind of sensation, and the skin looks flushed and comes out in bumps. However, parents need not worry as this is not generally disturbing to the baby, as they are rarely even aware of the irritation. These allergens may be chemicals or detergents.

As baby eczema is an allergic disease, it is fairly unfeasible to get a special treatment. There are a variety of medicines obtainable to improve the condition of a baby’s skin.

* Moisturise: Since eczema is defined by the characteristic dry skin, moisturizing will always help to reduce the effect. You can use baby oil or baby lotion as per your doctor’s advice; this will be more beneficial to your baby than harsher adult alternatives.

* Baby Bathing: Bath your baby in slightly warm water and take special care of water temperature. This kind of water helps to keep the baby’s skin moisturized for a long time. Avoid using any bath soap for few days, at least until it cures. Don’t scrub or clean the baby vigorously as this can harm sensitive skin.

* Do not use household detergents such as strong washing powders which can irritate the baby and always dry clothes well after washing. Choose cotton clothes instead of synthetic or woollen fabrics, because of this the baby will feel comfortable and the skin can breathe and be free of irritation.

* Keep your pets out for few days if it’s possible, or else wash your hands well before you touch the baby. 

Diet: avoid allergens such as cow’s milk or wheat. Try to breastfeed your baby for at least 4 months if you can, or for the time it takes for the eczema to go away. You should also consult with your doctor or paediatrician about this. Itching and scratching may be the worst effect of baby eczema. Always keep the baby’s nails short, so that they do not get caught or ensnared on anything.

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1 Comment so far
  1. Webder August 13, 2008 4:45 am

    Are baby eczema different from adult ones??