If you’re a new parent and suspect your baby is developing eczema, you might be wondering whether you need to take your little one to the GP. In this blog we look at when and why you might need to go to the doctor for a baby with eczema.

Baby eczema is a common condition, with about 10-20% of all children developing it to one degree or other, but however widespread it might be a case of eczema can still be worrying for parents. That applies even more if your baby is getting distressed and uncomfortable, and your family life is affected. But how do you know when the right moment is to take your baby to the doctor?

When to get help

Most cases of baby eczema are mild and manageable with a combination of avoiding triggers for flare ups, and the frequent application of emollients (see our blog What’s The Best Cream For Baby Eczema? for more information about picking the best emollient for your baby), but there are times when you might want some extra support from a medical professional.

Here are some situations when you might want to seek medical advice:

• You need a definite diagnosis to rule out any other condition
• Your baby is in a lot of discomfort
• You’re worried the eczema is infected
• Your baby has a fever
• The emollients you’re using aren’t working
• The eczema is getting worse
• Your don’t know what your options are

What can a doctor do to help?

The main thing your GP or practice nurse can offer you is reassurance that you’re managing the condition as well as possible. Although eczema isn’t curable, it can be managed, and a doctor can help advise you about how best to do that.

A doctor might offer:

• A day-to-day management plan: advice about avoiding triggers, bathing, using emollients
• Information about treatment options, including topical steroids and antihistamines
• Advice on wet wrapping and bleach baths
• Prescriptions for emollients, bandages, bath products, clothing etc.
• Ongoing monitoring to check your chosen treatment plan is working
• Referrals to allergy testing, asthma clinics, nutritionists etc
• Checking for, and treating, infection
• Advanced treatment options, such as immunosuppressants and phototherapy

In conclusion

If you’re ever worried about your little one’s health, get advice from a doctor! You’re never wasting a doctor’s time if you’re concerned about a baby under two, so don’t worry about seeking help; it’s always better to be safe than sorry. While eczema isn’t necessarily very serious, infected eczema can have serious consequences and always needs to be treated. Eczema can also have a profound effect on your baby’s enjoyment of life - as well as your own! - so it’s worth considering all the available options for managing the condition.

Recommended products for babies prone to eczema

Balmonds Skin Salvation
with hemp and beeswax