While the immune system is involved in some way, the exact cause of eczema is unknown. The usual trigger for the condition is an allergen which the skin is sensitive too, which results in the rash that is so often seen. The condition of baby eczema causes distress to the child as the rash becomes more irritated leading to a scaly appearance and eventual cracking. This condition does not differentiate between classes and races with as many as 20 percent of babies in the USA being treated for this complaint every year.
Luckily, for most young children, the condition has disappeared before they have their second birthday. However, in a small number of cases, the condition doesn't clear and becomes a chronic condition which may even carry on into adulthood. This is not an age specific condition although it is much more common in small children. Sufferers have generally had the condition since before their fifth birthday and almost a third of sufferers before they were a year old.
atopic eczema is the type most often found in baby eczema, where the child suffers with an itchy rash that is more often located on the arms, legs, face and head. Strangely, atopic eczema is also hereditary and often starts when the baby's skin is not moisturized regularly. Washing powder is also known to trigger attacks but fabric conditioners can also have a similar effect. In some instances it would seem that breastfeeding seems to protect the child from baby eczema as opposed to those mothers who stop this practice prematurely.
However, other problems the baby might have including those of a respiratory nature or an associated medical condition could also act as an asthma trigger. Studies have also shown that it may be more common in those infants who suffer from allergic rhinitis or food allergies, or whose mothers suffer from asthma. Specialists in food allergies believe that up to 3 cases in 10 of childhood cases are because the child has a food allergy; however, if this is the situation, there is no longer any reason why the child should have it its diet once the problem food has been confirmed. Even though this is a simple process, it can take some time but some of the common food groups are listed below:
Fish Food containing milk Products using wheat as an ingredient Eggs Meals or foodstuffs where peanuts have been used in the preparation
Doctors also know that baby eczema can also be the result of the antibiotics received by the baby at birth. Infants, in particular babies with the condition need to be washed gently in lukewarm water using proprietary lubricating creams. Once they have dried, they need to be dressed in soft natural clothing made from cotton. The best way to stop a baby scratching and causing further infection is to keep their nails short and make sure they wear mittens. For infants with more serious baby eczema, antihistamine cream may be prescribed which should help stop the itching; steroid creams can also be used for a short period to help heal the skin. One thing is certain; this skin disorder is very common, yet remains a difficult form to control and fully overcome.
