The what’s and why’s of a common skin condition

Baby eczema is usually referred to as infantile eczema or atopic dermatitis. It is a condition of the skin wherein it gets irritated and red, becomes dry, swells, itches, cracks and sometimes results in oozing or bleeding. Although eczema can affect persons regardless of age, it is common in infants and small children affecting about 20%. Close to 85% of children affected with baby eczema have it before reaching five years of age but the problem is often resolved by the time the child becomes 3 years old. Eczema is more common in girls and up to 2% of adults are said to be affected by the condition.

No one really knows what causes eczema but many scientists believe that the condition is hereditary. Baby eczema is common in families with a history of allergies like hay fever and asthma. Studies have shown that children who suffer from baby eczema are prone to developing asthma and other allergic reactions later in life.

Aside from genetic reasons, baby eczema can also be caused or aggravated by other factors. Allergies to substances such as pollen, mold or even animals can cause a flare-up of eczema. Contact with certain fabrics, fragrances or dyes, common irritants in the environment or even water can contribute to the condition. Colds and flu can bring on an eczema attack, but a common culprit that doctors identify is emotional stress.

Symptoms of baby eczema can manifest themselves as early as 2-6 months after a baby is born. A rash, which starts on the cheeks, forehead and scalp can spread to the limbs and the infant’s trunk. Red crusts or open lesions may develop on the skin. Other symptoms are itchy, scaly rashes on the bends of the elbows, at the backs of the knees or on the wrists and ankles.

The condition eases up as the child grows older. The skin becomes less scaly and oozy. Over time, these conditions come and go. With infants, one of the problems that make baby eczema worse is scratching the affected areas. This can result in thick, brownish areas on the scratched skin. The baby eczema may vanish for months or years only to return during puberty and even early adulthood

Fortunately, eczema is not contagious. Cortisone creams and ointments are sometimes prescribed as well as antihistamines and antibiotics. Until medical science pinpoints the causes of baby eczema, those affected will just have to learn to live with the condition as best they can.