How to Diagnose and Treat Eczema in Children

Child Eczema

Has your child suddenly developed a skin rash?
Has the skin rash been a persistent nuisance and frequently flares up? What type of skin rash does your child have?
Where does the skin rash occur on your child�s body? These are just a few of the different questions your doctor or Dermatologist will ask in order to diagnosis your child�s skin condition.

What are common skin conditions that would cause a rash on your child�s body?

One common skin rash that affects children is child eczema. The condition in a child a is akin to the adult form in several ways. However it is not itchy like it is in adults.

What symptoms will my child have if they have the condition?

It shows itself as chronic rash that can affect several areas of the body. It can affect the face, neck, elbows, wrists, groin, knees, and ankles. Some or all of these areas can have a rash. The affected skin areas are dry, chapped and may even erupt into oozing blisters.

What is an average age for children to show signs of the condition?

Usually it can surface between two to six months of age. This eczema looks worse then it feels. The child may not feel the rash at all. This type condition commonly clears up after the age of one. However, it is often hereditary. Therefore, your child may suffer from child and adult eczema as well.

What causes this condition?

It can be caused by genetics, allergies, and skin irritants. Does hay fever and asthma run in your family? Chronic respiratory conditions like asthma and hay fever are commonly found in patients with eczema. Your child may need to be tested for food allergies. Clothing and environmental irritants can also be the cause.

How do you treat the condition?

You can try home remedies first that include heavy moisturizers and hydrocortisone creams. Bath your child in room temperature water and gently remove any crusting skin. Use oils in the bath to add moisture. Apply the creams immediately after their bath to lock in moisture.

If over the counter creams like hydrocortisone cream do not work then consult your Dermatologist. They can prescribe stronger creams, ointments, and medications. Your doctor may order skin and allergy tests if they suspect an allergy is to blame. In which case, allergy shots may help control your child�s symptoms.