IN THE PAST 20 years of my pediatric practice, I have been asked the following questions many times: Does my baby have eczema? Will my baby develop eczema like me? Is the eczema due to food allergy? Is steroid cream safe? I’m worried about the side effects.
What is eczema?
It is very common skin condition that affects about 20 percent of children. It makes children’s skin dry and itchy. We do not know what exactly causes it. Eczema often happens in people who have allergies. It can also run in families.
You know your child has eczema if he has the following:
Dry skin, intense itching, redness and small bumps, he or she might be suffering from eczema and therefore you should seek advice from a pediatrician.
If you suspect your baby has eczema, check the front of the arms and legs, cheeks, or scalp. If you have an older child, look at the sides of the neck, the elbow creases, and the backs of the knees.
What are the tests for eczema?
There is no specific test for eczema. But for resistant eczema, we can look for allergens such as house dust mites or some food allergens, such as eggs or peanuts.
How can you help your child to feel better?
1) Use copious amount of unscented moisturizers to keep the skin well hydrated.
2) A regular daily bath with moisturizing body wash helps to get rid of the allergens.
3) Scratching must be avoided – babies will rub their faces against the caretaker’s clothing, older children will scratch their bodies.
4) Avoid being too hot or sweating too much, being in very dry air, sudden temperature changes, harsh soaps or cleaning products, perfumes, and wool or synthetic fabrics (such as polyester).
Dr Ho Mo Ching
Paediatrician
......cont'l
Reference information: The Standard
It is not intended as medical advice to any specific person. If you have any need for personal advice or have any questions regarding your health, please consult your Pediatrician for diagnosis and treatment.
What is eczema?
It is very common skin condition that affects about 20 percent of children. It makes children’s skin dry and itchy. We do not know what exactly causes it. Eczema often happens in people who have allergies. It can also run in families.
You know your child has eczema if he has the following:
Dry skin, intense itching, redness and small bumps, he or she might be suffering from eczema and therefore you should seek advice from a pediatrician.
If you suspect your baby has eczema, check the front of the arms and legs, cheeks, or scalp. If you have an older child, look at the sides of the neck, the elbow creases, and the backs of the knees.
What are the tests for eczema?
There is no specific test for eczema. But for resistant eczema, we can look for allergens such as house dust mites or some food allergens, such as eggs or peanuts.
How can you help your child to feel better?
1) Use copious amount of unscented moisturizers to keep the skin well hydrated.
2) A regular daily bath with moisturizing body wash helps to get rid of the allergens.
3) Scratching must be avoided – babies will rub their faces against the caretaker’s clothing, older children will scratch their bodies.
4) Avoid being too hot or sweating too much, being in very dry air, sudden temperature changes, harsh soaps or cleaning products, perfumes, and wool or synthetic fabrics (such as polyester).
Dr Ho Mo Ching
Paediatrician
......cont'l
Reference information: The Standard
It is not intended as medical advice to any specific person. If you have any need for personal advice or have any questions regarding your health, please consult your Pediatrician for diagnosis and treatment.
