Eczema is a common condition that happens in one in 10 children. Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that causes dry, red, itchy skin. When your child has this skin condition, their skin is more sensitive than others.
About 60% of children with eczema start having symptoms by one year of age. Another 30% of children will have symptoms by age 5. Infant eczema can be diagnosed early, followed by food allergy, hay fever, and asthma. Up to 80% of children with eczema will develop asthma and hay fever later in life.
Kids get eczema when there’s a problem with the skin barrier. Your child likely has a deficiency of a protein called “filaggrin” on the outer layer of their skin. Filaggrin gives their skin a strong barrier that protects the body from the environment.
In some children, eczema may start to disappear by the age of 4, but others may grow up with dry, sensitive skin. Only time will tell if your child will outgrow the condition. This can be frustrating for you and your child. You’ll want to try to ease the itching. You can make a plan with your pediatrician and pediatric dermatologist.
Eczema is believed to be genetic. Most kids with this skin condition also have family members with it. It’s a fairly common condition and may also be in addition to asthma and other allergies like hay fever. These are other “atopic” conditions. Though genetic, eczema is not contagious.
Environmental triggers can also cause eczema in children. This happens when their immune system is triggered by something outside of the body, which causes flare-ups. These flare-ups can range from mild redness to extreme itchiness and flaky skin.
Most eczema is genetically predisposed and caused by your child’s environment. If you have eczema, your child is more likely to have the same condition. However, they may or may not have the same severity. Their eczema may flare up, then disappear for periods of their life.
However your child gets eczema, the proper diagnosis and treatment plan will help them live a more comfortable life. Talk to your child's doctor if you see red, flaky patches or your child's itching is keeping them up at night. This is a good sign that they may have eczema. Even without formal treatment, creams and medications can help relieve your child's itch.
