Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic condition that causes your baby’s skin to turn red, itchy and scaly. The areas that are most affected include your baby’s cheek, forehead and scalp. Even though it is a common condition in babies, it is important to treat it. If left untreated, the condition can hamper your baby’s health including your baby’s sleep, appetite, and ability to learn. It is seen that in the last few years, the cases of eczema in babies have increased.
Read to know the factors that are responsible for an increase in the cases of baby eczema.
Environmental factors
Over the last few years, there has been a significant rise in the cases of eczema. The cases have increased especially in infants and babies. The increase in the cases is said to be because of environmental and lifestyle factors. It is also seen that the cases are more in urban areas as compared to the rural ones, thanks to pollution. Potential environment factors include rough water, excess traffic, air pollution etc. Other potential risk factors are the usage of skincare products that are not safe for your baby’s sensitive skin. There are various researches that show environmental factors are the major contributors to the increase in the cases of baby eczema.
Layering up
According to studies, eczema flare-ups in babies increases in winter. Too many layers of clothing, hot water baths/steam can cause flare-ups in babies. To avoid eczema flare-ups in kids, avoid hot water baths, use soaps, cleansers and moisturisers that are chemical-free and are gentle on your baby’s sensitive skin. Avoid layering up your baby in too many clothes. Dress your baby in loose and comfortable clothes. Choose fabrics that are soft and breathable. Cotton muslin is one of the most recommended fabric for babies with eczema. Avoid fabrics such as nylon, rayon and wool, it may worsen your baby’s condition. Make sure your baby is hydrated. It plays an important role in maintaining your baby’s skin health.
Diet
In most cases of baby eczema, food allergy is one of the few common things. Even though food allergy does not occur because of eczema, babies with eczema are more prone to food allergies. It is important to monitor your baby’s food habits that triggers your baby’s eczema. Eczema is not an allergic reaction, but food allergies can make the condition worse, especially in babies. Common food that can cause allergic reactions are fish, peanuts, eggs, wheat etc. If you are able to identify food that triggers eczema in kids, it is advised to avoid feeding the food for at least a few days. Monitor your baby’s health to check if your baby’s condition is improving. Talk to your baby’s doctor about the food allergy. He/she may ask you to try the same food in a small amount after 15 days to see if the symptoms reappear. The best ways to prevent food allergies in babies is by introducing solid foods to your baby at the right time and after introducing your baby to new foods make sure you feed the same food at regular intervals so that your baby’s immune system gets used to it.