Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is an inflammatory skin disease that can affect people of all ages including babies. According to studies, approximately 10 percent of young children around the world are prone to eczema. There is no single cause of atopic dermatitis eczema, but usually a mix of factors determines the onset of symptoms. The most common causes of dermatitis eczema are:
# 1- Heredity
One common reason why a baby or a person develops eczema flare up is heredity, meaning it runs with the blood. If the parents or any relative has experienced eczema before, or perhaps there is someone in the family that has allergies, most likely it will manifest up early in a baby’s life.
# 2- Imbalance of immune system
One of the primary causes of dermatitis is an immune system imbalance. Once the body’s immune system malfunctions, the body will likely undertake a number of changes such as development of irritated and inflamed skin. If this happens, it is advised that parents should bring their child to the doctor in order to know the necessary things they have to do to fix the root cause of their baby’s irritated and dry skin. It is reported that breastfeeding and administration of probiotics to pregnant mothers generates positive results in strengthening the immune system and limiting the eczema onset in babies.
# 3- Allergies
Children with known allergies to most common allergens: dairy, wheat, egg or peanuts have a higher risk of developing eczema. Also, developing eczema before the age of 6 months was associated with a higher risk for food allergies. In order to avoid the onset or aggravation of eczema in babies, delayed introduction of solids is recommended beginning after the age of 6 months.
# 4- Irritants
Atopic skin becomes dry because it is abnormally porous. Harsh soaps, lotion, oils and creams can irritate and dry out babies’ hyper sensitive skin. Detergent residues on sheets or clothes may trigger atopic skin inflammation. Sometimes direct contact with certain materials like rubber or fabrics like wool may trigger eczema. Another aggravating factor is the exposure to harsh, windy and humid weather, while mild sun is said to improve the condition.
The best strategy for keeping eczema under control is to maintain intact skin’s barrier through topical anti-inflammatory and moisturizing creams and to avoid the common eczema trigger factors through lifestyle changes. This condition requires daily skin management for optimum hydration and a special life regime in order to avoid its recurrence.