Eczema

What is eczema?

Eczema is a group of conditions that cause inflamed, red, itchy patches of skin. There are several types of eczema that your child can develop, including:

Atopic dermatitis

The most common form of chronic eczema, atopic dermatitis typically begins during infancy or early childhood. This type of eczema is characterized by red, dry, scaly patches of skin that itch and crust over.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis occurs when you come in contact with a substance or irritant that you may be allergic to, causing your skin to become inflamed, red, and itchy.

Dyshidrotic eczema

Dyshidrotic eczema causes very small, intensely itchy blisters on your fingers, toes, palms, or soles of your feet.

Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is commonly found on areas of the body that produce a large amount of oil, such as the scalp, back, and nose.

What are the symptoms of eczema?

Eczema symptoms vary from person to person and depend entirely on the type your child has. Some common eczema signs and symptoms to look out for are:

• Dry patches of skin
• Redness
• Itchy skin
• Scaly skin
• Cracked, oozing patches
• Red patches that come and go
• Irritated rash

While an eczema flare-up can occur at any time, you may notice it more at night. Most occurrences develop on the elbows, neck, forehead, cheeks, or behind the knees.

What causes eczema?

It’s unclear exactly what causes eczema, but experts believe it’s linked to your body’s immune response to certain irritants. In many cases, however, you can help prevent your child’s flare-ups by avoiding certain eczema triggers, including:

• Heat
• Sweating
• Dry skin
• Certain irritants

Depending on your child’s age, their saliva can trigger eczema around the mouth and cheeks. You may also notice that your child’s eczema is more persistent in the winter when the air is dry and cool.

How is eczema treated?

There is no known cure for eczema, but Katy Pediatric Associates offers several treatment options at their office:

Topical corticosteroids

Steroid creams or ointments can help reduce inflammation and ease skin irritation caused by eczema.

Topical moisturizers

There are a variety of OTC moisturizers available. It is best to choose a fragrance-free product that is designed for eczematous skin. Fragrance-free petroleum jelly can be a good option.

Medications

If topical steroids and moisturizers don’t ease your child’s eczema symptoms, anti-inflammatory medications can help change the way their immune system reacts. In addition to topical medications, oral antihistamines, corticosteroids, or antibiotics can help clear a flare-up.

Eczema is an uncomfortable, yet manageable condition that can affect your child’s quality of life if left untreated. To learn more about your child’s eczema treatment options, call Katy Pediatric Associates or schedule a visit online.