How to Help Treat and Control Your Child’s Eczema
Child eczema is a very common inflammatory condition that leaves kids (and adults) with patches of skin that are itchy and dry. Although it isn’t something to be overly worried about, it can make your little one very uncomfortable.
Dealing with this condition is tough for anyone to deal with at any age which is why it is so important to know how to help treat and control your child’s eczema.
Signs of Eczema in Children
Eczema can appear anywhere on the body. However, it is most commonly found on the scalp, face, arms, legs, and feet. It looks like —-
- A rash
- Small bumps
- Patches of dry skin that itch
- Hyperpigmentation (darker patches of skin)
The areas of the skin that are affected may vary in size.
Knowing that the signs of eczema can be different for every child is essential. If you aren’t sure what you are dealing with or how to treat it, always make an appointment with your pediatrician for a proper diagnosis and guidance.
Does Your Child Have Eczema?
If you notice any of the signs above, your child may have eczema. Nobody truly knows the exact cause of the skin condition, but it is believed to be the result of both genetics and environmental factors.
Things used at home, such as lotions, shampoos, detergents, cleansers, etc. can all be factors that cause eczema. A few others include food allergies, cold and dry air, pet dander, sweating, certain materials or fabrics, plants, and dust.
Eczema is not contagious and will not be spread from person to person.
How is Eczema Treated?
If your child has eczema, there are things you can do at home to help treat and control it.
Always do what you can to reduce the chance of scratching and lower the risk of infection. The younger the child, the more difficult this is, but mittens over the hands and keeping nails cut short can both help reduce the incidence.
Hydrocortisone cream or ointment can be bought over the counter and can help significantly in reducing the urge to scratch, as well as calm inflammation and redness. Further, keeping the area moist with a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free lotion will also reduce the chance of the skin becoming dry and uncomfortable.
Keeping Eczema Under Control
Keeping eczema under control can often be done using the aforementioned treatments and care. The idea is to identify and isolate any triggers to reduce the painful condition from showing up in the first place.
If your child is having an eczema flare-up, the best thing you can do to keep it under control is:
- Don’t scratch
- Keep the area moisturized
- Stay cool and dry
When Should You See the Pediatrician for Eczema?
If you do not see any signs that the skin is improving or you believe that it could be infected, it is important to seek treatment from your child’s pediatrician.
Prescription steroid creams are available to help reduce inflammation and heal the skin. In some situations, oral medication, such as antibiotics or corticosteroids may be prescribed.
With the right care and treatment, kids can overcome this skin condition.
Advocare Haddon Pediatric Group is a highly experienced team of pediatricians serving patients from birth through college. They have been an established leader in pediatrics for decades in the Haddon Heights and Mullica Hill areas of New Jersey.
