If your child has itchy patches of red skin, it may be atopic dermatitis, more commonly known as eczema. As many as 15 percent of children under the age of 9 suffer from this chronic condition, and its prevalence has been on the rise since the 1970's.
"The majority of patients with eczema develop the condition before the age of 2, and outgrow it by the time they reach adulthood," says Dr. Mary Beth Bollinger, an allergy specialist at the University of Maryland Hospital for Children. In babies and toddlers, the eczema is typically found on the face, scalp, neck, forearms and legs. In older patients, the eczema typically appears on the face, neck, and the inside of their elbows, knees and ankles.
Eczema is often triggered by allergens such as dust mites, pollen, pet dander and in some cases, foods. Stress can also contribute to an outbreak. Eczema is not contagious. Its exact cause is not known, but there is a genetic link, meaning it runs in families.
Many children with eczema will go on to develop nasal allergies and asthma, so it is important to identify triggers and watch for the development of other symptoms, such as wheezing or persistent cough.
In some children, the eczema is dry and scaly, while for others it is wet and may ooze. Both types are extremely itchy. "It is so uncomfortable that children often scratch themselves until they bleed," says Dr. Bollinger.
There is no cure for eczema, but there are several different kinds of topical creams, lotions and medications to alleviate the rashes and the itch. Eczema can be controlled by staying away from scratchy materials like wool, as well as bathing with perfume-free soaps followed by an application of a good moisturizer. Avoidance of environmental triggers and certain foods may also help control the eczema.
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