Eczema.com

If your baby has eczema, you’re not alone. In fact, one out of every five babies has eczema to some extent at some point in their infancy or childhood. Of those who do experience eczema, over half of them will experience it within the first twelve months. If someone develops a form of eczema later in life, there is a 90% likelihood that they had it as an infant.

Some Complicating Factors

Scientific research informs us that the major reason for eczema is hereditary. Families who have a history of eczema will probably continue to have a history of eczema. Interestingly enough, eczema seems to be a phenomenon in industrialized countries, particularly Western nations. While that raises yet-unanswered questions, there are some things that parents can do as precautions to protect their children against eczema, and if their children do have eczema, to prevent it from becoming worse.

Things to Watch For

• If the mother is breastfeeding her baby, she should make sure that she avoids allergen-causing foods. Sometimes it is possible to identify certain foods that may irritate the baby or cause a fresh outbreak of eczema.

• The right kind of fabric. Wool, nylon, or other synthetic or rough fabrics should not be used as the baby’s clothing or bedding. The constant contact and friction with these and other materials can cause or worsen eczema. The best option for both bedding and clothing is high-quality cotton that is soft and breathable.

• Plenty of moisture. One of the best things you can do for your baby is keep his or her skin moist hydrated. A proper diet is the best way to keep the skin moisturized, but occasional application of baby oil or moisturizing cream will help as well. Dry skin is a major cause of eczema and baby discomfort.

• Watch the chemicals. Some chemicals can cause eczema. If you notice an outbreak of eczema after using a particular soap, detergent, or lotion, try to avoid it. It may be a factor in your baby’s eczema.

• Stressed out. Believe it or not, babies can get stressed out. Obviously, they don’t experience stress for the same reasons or in the same way as adults do, but sometimes their bodies may react to stressful situations. Eczema may result from stressful conditions. Stress may be caused by tension or conflict in the home, a constantly disrupted schedule, and any form of physical or emotional abuse.

Some Hope

By the time a child reaches the age of two, his or her eczema may clear up. This is the case for well over half of all children who have eczema.  Although it’s an inconvenient and sometimes distressing condition for a baby to have, it doesn’t have to interfere with their having a normal life.