Is infantile eczema contagious?

Written by Yao Li Qin
Pediatrics
Updated on September 18, 2024
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Pediatric eczema is a chronic, recurrent inflammatory skin condition that typically presents during infancy and early childhood. Some children may continue to experience symptoms into childhood and even adulthood. It is characterized by skin damage but is not infectious; thus, pediatric eczema is not contagious, which should reassure parents. The causes of pediatric eczema are complex and relate to immune dysfunction or deficiency, and nutritional disorders. External factors also play a role, such as allergies to milk, fish, shrimp, or eggs, as well as mechanical irritation or improper care, all of which can lead to eczema. However, it is not contagious. Poor care can lead to local bacterial infections of the skin, which parents must be careful to avoid.

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How to treat allergic eczema?

The treatment for allergic eczema primarily involves avoiding allergens and, under the guidance of a doctor, choosing oral medications such as antihistamines, vitamin C, or topical treatments like ointments or powders.

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How to treat baby eczema?

Infant eczema is a common type of skin allergic inflammation in children, with a higher incidence in infants and young children. General care for infant eczema primarily involves skin care, focusing on moisturizing the skin. Children who are allergic in nature are more susceptible to eczema triggered by allergens, hence it is crucial to avoid allergens. It is advisable to wear cotton clothing, preferably in light colors, which are soft and comfortable. It is best to avoid synthetic fibers or animal fur clothing, as these can easily cause allergies. Additionally, skin moisturizing is important; it is recommended to keep bath times under ten minutes and the water not too hot. Avoid using alkaline bath products, which can scrub the baby's skin and potentially damage the skin barrier, worsening the eczema. The recommended water temperature is around 38 degrees Celsius, and bathing time should not exceed ten minutes. Room temperature should not be too warm. The room's air humidity should be maintained between 50% to 70%. It is advisable for infants not to be overly full when feeding, as excessive food intake can burden their digestive system and potentially exacerbate eczema. Mothers should be cautious with their diet, avoiding spicy, stimulating foods or allergenic foods like seafood. For baby rashes, moisturizers, predominantly those with a simple composition like mineral oil and free of dyes and fragrances, are recommended. Avoid using diluted lotions with a high water content. Applying moisturizer within about 3 minutes after bathing can optimize moisture retention. If the eczema is extensive with noticeable exudation or redness, and the baby is noticeably distressed, further medical consultation should be sought at a hospital. Dermatologists can prescribe appropriate medication based on the baby’s condition. It is generally not recommended for parents to use corticosteroid ointments on their own due to potential side effects and risks of improper use.

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Written by Yao Li Qin
Pediatrics
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Does baby eczema spread?

Babies with eczema indicate that the child has skin damage. Eczema is a common skin disease in infants and is not contagious, so eczema does not spread as only infectious diseases are contagious. When a child has eczema, the first step is to ensure proper moisturizing. On this basis, under the guidance of a doctor, some mild corticosteroids can be used. Normally, if we come into contact with a child who has eczema, we will not contract it ourselves. Parents can be reassured about this, as this is an inherent immune response of the child and is not spread through contact or the respiratory or digestive tracts.

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Written by Yan Xin Liang
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Baby eczema treatment methods

Eczema in babies is a common problem, generally caused by allergies. To address allergies, it's important to identify the cause. Common triggers in babies include food, with cow's milk allergies being frequent, as well as contact with certain substances. Some babies who often spit up milk can develop eczema around the lips. If the allergen is identified, it is best to avoid contact with it. Topical medications can also be used, with commonly prescribed treatments including Desonide ointment (use medications under the guidance of a doctor). Desonide is a steroid medication. If you prefer to avoid steroids, other options like Dandiphen ointment (use medications under the guidance of a doctor) are available, though they might not be as effective. As the child grows older, the eczema will gradually disappear, so parents need not worry overly.

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Eczema is divided into several types.

Eczema, based on common classifications, includes: 1. Eczema classified by the course of the disease can be divided into acute eczema, subacute eczema, and chronic eczema. 2. Classified by the location of the outbreak, it can be divided into eczema of the scalp, face, nipple, genital area, anal area, hands, and intertriginous eczema, among others. 3. Classified by age, it can be divided into adult eczema, infant eczema, etc. There are also some other classifications: 1. By the characteristics of the rash, it can be divided into erythematous eczema, papular eczema, vesicular eczema, pustular eczema, exudative erosive eczema, and crusty desquamative eczema. 2. By the nature of the cause, it can be divided into bacterial eczema (infectious eczematous dermatitis), fungal eczema, autosensitization eczema, seborrheic eczema (seborrheic dermatitis), dyshidrotic eczema, occupational eczema, atopic eczema (atopic dermatitis), among others.