Infant Eczema
Infant Eczema is common sight in the infants below 5 years of age. In rare cases, this disorder can be noticed in the babies of two to six months of age. Infants with extra sensitive skin or even dry skin are more prone to this disorder. The outermost layer of the skin that protects us gets sensitive in this condition or at times this layer is lost.
Infant eczema needs continuous extra care as the infants have the habit of scratching thus irritating the affected area. If the infant continues to scratch, the disorder may get elevated causing some severe problems. Scratching may break open the skin making a way for other skin infections to enter the body. Infant eczema needs prime care and it should be reported to the doctor as soon as possible.
The common and the primary symptoms of infant eczema are flaked skin, rashes and itchiness. The most effective and the common treatment for the eczema is the topical steroid ointment that is prescribed as an effective cure against itching and inflammation. These ointments are available in different power or strengths and are suitable for short period use, but under medical supervision.
The medical treatment varies with the intensity of the diseases and the age of the infants. It is recommended that the infants over the age of three months use the steroid free cream regularly to prevent any further development of this disease. All the medical treatments should be started under the proper guidance and the supervision of the doctor.
Infants are more prone to discontinued sleep and are constantly fussy about the itching skin. Making the infant’s calm in such delicate conditions can be a difficult job. Gently applying mild moisture on the affected areas can make the infant feel relaxed and soothed. Taking precautions is always better than waiting for the disease to get cured.
Using mild and soft baby soaps for cleansing the infants is always better than using the regular soaps. Give a lukewarm water bath to your infant instead of a hot water bath as hot water may dry the skin further. Pat the skin dry with a dry towel instead of rubbing it harshly. Use pure cotton clothes for the infant instead of any synthetic fabrics. Make sure the bedding used for the infant is made of 100% cotton. Do not cover the child with a woolen blanket or any synthetic rug. Keep the infants room temperature normal. Keep the infant away from the extreme hot temperatures. Avoid keeping pets in the house and if you have one avoid the pet getting on the beds and the furniture.
Cover the hands of the infant with socks or mittens, during the night, to avoid them from scratching while asleep. Keep the infants nails clean and short. Do not apply any kind of talcum powder as it may dry the skin. Keep the skin moist by applying mild moisturizers after their baths and whenever needed. Use soft and mild detergents to wash your infant’s clothes. Taking conscious steps towards the safety of your infant will definitely help in making his/ her life healthy.