Having children with eczema can be stressful, to say the least. You are in constant worry if your child is uncomfortable and itchy. And when those dry red spots pop up, your heart drops. But there are some ways to ease this.
What is Baby Eczema?
Baby eczema, or more technically atopic dermatitis, is a dry and itchy rash that can first show appearance around 3-6 months of age. Along with it comes redness, swelling, raised bumps, and scaling. And sometimes even ooze and hard crust. Which altogether can make your baby uncomfortable and cranky. Which no mama wants in the slightest! Which, of course, both of my children do (my daughter the worst).
What Does it Look Like?
Although every person, babies included, are different in how they react to certain things, there are some typical aspects about eczema. Usually, it is characterized by chapped and dry pieces of skin that can be red, swollen, and itchy. Under the age of one, it can typically be seen on the cheeks and scalp. For my daughter (now seven months old), her problem areas are in the crease of her armpits, scalp, back, and a little bit on her cheeks. While for toddlers, it can typically be seen in the crease of their elbows and knees, and on their bellies. For my son (now 2 1/2 years old), his problem areas are his butt cheeks and belly.
Causes
There is no exact pinpoint of the cause of eczema. But we do know that it has a lot to do with the process of sensitive skin being exposed to something that is irritating and/or drying. Which all leads to inflammation and itchiness. These include things such as cold air, dry air, wool, perfumes, dyes, and allergies to pets, food, or environmental aspects.
How Long Does it Last?
Eczema tends to be a more chronic kind of condition. Coming and going throughout one's lifetime. But a lot of children do seem to eventually grow out of it, often by the time that they reach their teenage years. So although it may not be lifelong, it may be recurrent.
Who is at Risk?
Really anyone can develop eczema. But those most at risk are those with a family history of asthma, allergies, or eczema; children in developed countries; and those living in cold, dry climates.
Remedies
- Cool Compress: Water does wonders to the body - even eczema. By applying a cool compress or wash cloth to the problem areas for a few minutes multiple times a day, it can soothe the itch, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. Pro tip: Always apply it just before bedtime to provide enough relief for your child to fall and stay asleep easier.
- Ointment/Cream: Preferably thick, fragrant free, and with mostly natural ingredients. They will help effectively increase the moisture quickly into the skin. My favorite is the Burt's Bees Baby Multipurpose Ointment. I have also heard some good things about the Aquaphor Healing Ointment. Although with my son (who is less severe), some good lotion does the trick - my favorite being Cetaphil.
- Coconut Oil: I absolutely hate the taste of coconut, but I sure do love all that it does for bug bites, soft hair, and some poison ivy. And now also as an alternative to the ointment for my children's dry skin. It contains antibacterial and antiflammatory properties that help fight against infections and swelling that comes along with eczema. My favorite is the Trader Joe's Virgin Coconut Oil.
- Wet Dressings: This process helps better lock in moisture to better reduce itchiness. Done so by cleaning off the skin, applying ointment, placing a piece of wet non-woven (sticks less) gauze on top, a piece of dry gauze, and then a band-aid of soft tape on top of it all to cover and keep it in place.
- Cover the Hands: This one is sure to piss off your baby if they are anything like my children. But it can help prevent any picking or scratching until the problem areas are a little less of a problem. I use either some socks or gloves to get the job done.
- Humidifier: It'll fill their room with moisture and humidity. Something particularly important during the cold months. It ensures that their skin doesn't become even drier through temperature fluctuations with the cold air, dry air, and usage of the heaters. The one that we use is the HoMedics Total Comfort Cold Mist Humidifier.
- Set Bath Limitations: Try to limit baths to once a day, for about 10 minutes to prevent too much drying. Aim for a warmth that makes your child comfortable at the coolest point. The warmth will give them some relief, but too much can irritate it more, dry it out, and ultimately make it worse.
- Fluids: Again, water is the biggest nutrient to our bodies. If we don't have enough of it, it can lead us into very dry skin. To encourage more of a water intake, find a cool new straw or cup for your little one t be excited about. Or even squeeze a little flavor into it! Whatever to promote more drinking. If your child is too young for that amount of water, allow them to nurse as long as they may like.
- Watch for Allergies: This can be present with diarrhea, upset stomachs, instant rashes, swollen throats, or bloating after being fed certain foods or the usage of certain soaps, lotions, or detergents. You'll want to address your child's diet and try to switch to more natural products that don't have fragrances, artificial dyes, or harsh chemicals.
- Steroid Creams: This is one that may be the last step, and for some their only step - depending on the severity of your child's eczema. But it is one often not recommended for children under the age of two. It can be doen by buying hydrocortisone over the counter or going to your Pediatrician for a stronger dose. It may come in the form of ointment, cream, or liquid.
- Benadryl: The mother savor for all things allergies.
When to Seek Help From the Pediatrician
If it continues or starts a fever, white discharge/pus, or worsens quickly and significantly. Because these are signs of an infection that may require further advanced treatment. And also if there are swollen lips or wheezing while breathing.
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