| disease | Baby Eczema |
Infantile eczema is referred to as "infantile eczema" in Chinese medicine. It is commonly seen in obese infants and usually begins in the second or third month after birth. It frequently occurs on the face and skin folds but can also affect the entire body. Generally, the condition gradually improves and heals with age. However, a small number of cases may persist into childhood or even adulthood.
bubble_chart Etiology
The cause of the disease is relatively complex, involving both congenital constitutional factors and acquired nutritional imbalances. Excessive nutrition, poor digestion, inappropriate clothing, and external stimuli are all contributing factors to the onset of this condition. Patients often have a congenital allergic constitution, with about three-quarters of them having parents who have a history of allergic diseases, either on one or both sides.
- Exudative eczema: Commonly seen in obese infants, initially appearing on both cheeks with erythema, papules, and papulovesicles. Due to intense itching and scratching, it often reveals bright red erosive surfaces with significant exudate. In severe cases, it may affect the entire face or even the whole body. Secondary infections may present with pustules, localized lymphadenopathy, and fever.
- Dry eczema: More common in underweight infants. It frequently occurs on the scalp, between the eyebrows, and other areas, manifesting as erythema, desquamation, and papules, but without significant exudation. In chronic cases, it may also show grade I infiltration and thickening, with rhagades, scratch marks, or bloody crusts. Paroxysmal intense cutaneous pruritus often causes infants to cry and experience sleep disturbances.
bubble_chart Treatment Measures
Treatment Measures
- Home Medication
(1) 0
- 2% Diphenhydramine syrup 1-2 mg/kg body weight/day, divided into 3-4 oral doses. Alternatively, Chlorpheniramine 0.35 mg/kg body weight/day, divided into 3-4 oral doses.
(2) For erosive exudation, apply 3% boric acid solution for wet compress, then apply zinc oxide oil. When exudation decreases, apply boric-zinc paste, 2-3 times daily.
(3) For dry types, apply 2-5% black soybean distillate oil or coal tar ointment, or apply cortisone or fluocinolone ointment, 2-3 times daily.
- Chinese Medicinals and Folk Remedies
(1) Phellodendron Bark powder 30g, Calcitum powder 15g, Indigo powder 3g, mix with sesame oil and apply to affected areas. For heavy exudation, mix thicker; for light exudation, mix thinner. Apply twice daily.
(2) Coptis Rhizome 30g, dried alum 15g, grind into fine powder and mix with appropriate amount of Vaseline to form an ointment for external application.
- Nutrition and Diet
Meals should be regular and portion-controlled. Breastfeeding is preferable. If using cow's milk, increase water intake, reduce sugar, and extend boiling time slightly. With age, provide multivitamin-rich foods but avoid overfeeding. For constipation, give honey or adjust diet. Treat indigestion promptly.
- Do not wash eczema lesions with water; strictly avoid soap or hot water. Clean with vegetable oil and avoid strong irritants.
- Before bedtime, gently restrain the baby's hands to prevent scratching and worsening lesions.
- Clothing should be loose, clean, and preferably cotton. Change and wash diapers frequently.
- Long-term or large-scale use of hormonal ointments on the face may cause side effects. Infant skin is delicate; improper medication can aggravate the condition. Always follow medical guidance.
- Minimize environmental allergens like house dust, mites, fur, synthetic fibers, and fungi.
- Maintain suitable room temperature. Avoid overheating indoors or overdressing to reduce sweat-induced irritation.
- Monitor diet composition, preparation, and feeding intervals. Avoid overfeeding and minimize consumption of cow's milk, eggs, and other foreign protein foods.
