Eczema is a general term used to describe a number of different skin conditions.
It usually appears as reddened skin that is dry and peeling. Spots may start oozing, occasionally resulting in small, fluid-filled bumps.
When eczema becomes chronic, the skin tends to thicken, dry out, and become scaly with coarse lines.
Your pediatrician can recommend measures to help clear up the rash and itching of eczema. Antihistamine medication may be prescribed to relieve the itching and help break the itch-scratch cycle (which leads to more itching, scratching, and possibly infection).
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) provides information on different ways to manage your child's eczema.
Melanie Cole, MS, and Dr. David Hill discuss eczema and the ways in which you can help your child with this annoying and uncomfortable condition.
Selected Podcast
Does Your Child Suffer from Eczema?
Featuring:
Dr. David Hill is Vice President of Cape Fear Pediatrics in Wilmington, NC, and Adjunct Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at UNC Medical School. He serves on the executive committees of the North Carolina Pediatric Society and the American Academy of Pediatrics Council On Communications and the Media. In addition to writing a monthly column for Wilmington Parent Magazine, Dr. Hill writes and records for multiple websites including as Livestrong.com, eHow.com, and thedoctorsvideos.com. He has three children, ages 6, 9, and 11.
David Hill, MD
Dr. David Hill is Vice President of Cape Fear Pediatrics in Wilmington, NC, and Adjunct Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at UNC Medical School. He serves on the executive committees of the North Carolina Pediatric Society and the American Academy of Pediatrics Council On Communications and the Media. In addition to writing a monthly column for Wilmington Parent Magazine, Dr. Hill writes and records for multiple websites including as Livestrong.com, eHow.com, and thedoctorsvideos.com. He has three children, ages 6, 9, and 11.