Eczema affects 10 percent of children and usually appears during the first five years of life, according to the National Eczema Association. Eczema can cause intense itching, and the skin becomes more irritated when it is scratched. While the cause of eczema is not completely understood, there are steps you can take to relieve your toddler's discomfort.
Moisturize
Keep your toddler's skin moisturized to help it stay intact and to prevent dry, irritated skin. The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recommends using a simple moisturizer without extra ingredients, such as petroleum jelly or the Aveeno Baby line of eczema prevention soap and lotion. The National Eczema Association recommends moisturizing within three minutes after a bath to preserve moisture.
Avoid Irritants
Avoid any irritants that aggravate your toddler's eczema. Regular bubble baths and soaps can make eczema worse. Choose a moisturizing soap, and keep the bath water lukewarm.(See Reference 3) Keep your child away from any pets that irritate her. Frequently wash bed sheets in hot water, and consider removing any carpet in your toddler's bedroom to reduce dust mites. Avoid irritating fabrics and laundry detergents, and choose breathable clothes to prevent sweating. (Reference 1)
Investigate Food Allergies
Food allergies can cause eczema. The National Eczema Association recommends eliminating a food suspected of triggering eczema from your child's diet for one week to see if the rash clears up. When you reintroduce the food, see if your child's eczema flares up. You should not try this method if your toddler has a serious reaction to a food, such as hives or facial swelling, according to the National Eczema Association. Only eliminate one food at a time, and always talk to your child's doctor before you start.
Adjust Humidity
Adjusting the humidity in your home may help alleviate your toddler's symptoms. Dr. William Sears recommends using a humidity gauge to ensure that the humidity in your home stays between 25 and 40 percent; he also suggests using a humidifier through the winter.
Medications
Ask your doctor about using medications to relieve your toddler's eczema. Common treatments are topical steroid creams and antihistamines. There are risks and side effects associated with some of these medications, so talk to your doctor before using them. Oatmeal baths, either homemade or purchased in pouches at the drugstore, can help soothe eczema as well (see Resources).
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