Why eczema is increasing in infants and what parents can do about it
Doctors report a steady increase in eczema cases among infants in Indian cities. Experts have warned that genetics and environmental factors are the major drivers behind this disturbed trend.
In short
- Eczema usually appears as dried, itchy patches on infants’ cheeks and scalp
- Urban lifestyle and pollution contribute to an increase in eczema in infants
- Family history of allergies risk atopic dermatitis in infants
In recent years, doctors have been seeing a steady growth in infants developing a severe skin condition, called eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis.
This common but often disturbing skin conditions usually appear within the first few months of life and can leave uncomfortable, itching and hoarseness to newborns. While it is cureable, experts say that it is important to understand the condition quickly for parents to take preventive steps.
“Eczema often begins as a dried or red patches behind the cheeks, scalp, or ears. Over time, it can spread to the abdomen, hands, or legs. Unlike heat rash or child’s acne, which come quickly and go. The hospital, Bengaluru.
Dr. According to the Pediatrics Department at Vital Kumar Caudi, Consultant and-charge, Care Hospitals, Hyderabad, “In infants, rash usually appears with small blisters or crusting. It is different from conditions like Kraddle Cap or Seborial Belted inflammation, which affects scap and generally.”
Doctors say that this growth has to blame both genetics and modern environment.
“If there is a family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies, the child is already at high risk. But today’s urban lifestyle -natural environment, excess pollution, harsh soap and artificial aroma also weaken the child’s skin obstacles,” Dr. Sachdev says.
Dr. Cayreddy says that dust, pollen, pet danders, molds, and dairy, gluten and nuts such as some foods such as dairy, can make environmental trigger symptoms worse.
“Parents should use gentle, fragrance-free products and children should avoid highlighting for harsh chemicals. Cotton clothes are better, and lukewarm bathing after rough moisturizer helps a lot,” Dr. Says Kesiddi.
Its treatment varies depending on severity, but most children react well to moisturizing and anti -inflammatory creams regularly.
“To repeatedly flare up, we now recommend treatment of barrier-ripe cream or light prescription even during cool stages. Reducing eczema quickly helps reduce the risk of children developing asthma or food allergies later in life-an event called ‘Atopic March’,” Dr. Sachdev says.
With early care and correct routine, most children can live healthy, itchy-free life.