Eczema is a chronic, recurrent skin condition that brings on dry, itchy, red skin with bumps and skin thickening. Some children with eczema may develop hay fever or asthma later in life. The cause is not known, although it may be a reaction to allergens in the environment. There are many other diseases that can act like eczema so you should consult a physician for a proper diagnosis. Eczema seems to occur in individuals whose skin is dry and itchy.
Children frequently scratch dry areas of skin that causes further drying and even more itchiness.
The treatment of eczema requires long-term, consistent attention. Ideally, a stepwise treatment plan is best, adding medicines only as they are needed. Your pediatrician may suggest that you keep your child s skin moistened. Bathing dries the skin, so you should not bathe your child more than twice each week. Antihistamines will decrease any itchy sensation and reduce the scratching.