What is infected eczema? 

In children who suffer from frequent Eczema rashes, the skin becomes an imperfect barrier. This enables bacteria and virus to enter the body and cause secondary infections. The most common infections in such children are Staphylococcus aureus and Herpes simplex. 

Staphylococcus is a bacterium that lives on the skin. The bacterium penetrates through tiny cracks in the skin, caused by the constant itching and scratching. The infected eczema looks red, has yellow spots and weepy crusts. Mild infections can be treated with moisturizers and topical steroids. Topical antiseptic lotions and soaps are also recommended for treating this infection. Some of the common antiseptics include benzalkonium chloride, trcilosan and chlorhexidine. Washing the affected area in a diluted solution of potassium permangonate also helps in treating the infection. If the infection is very severe then the doctor might prescribe oral antibiotics such as flucloxacillin and erythromycin. 

A virus known as Herpes simplex causes the other common infection in eczema. Herpes simplex also causes cold sores. If a child with eczema gets infected with Herpes he is likely to get a widespread rash with hundreds of painful sores. The child may also have fever. The common areas where the rash appears are the head, neck, and sometimes the chest and the whole body. This is a serious condition and the child must be taken to the doctor immediately for correct treatment.

                                                                 Probiotics for Baby Eczema