Gut health linked to the development of eczema in babies — Eczema Diagnosis in Puerto Banus
17/11/2023Worldwide, 6% of children suffer from eczema, also referred to as atopic dermatitis, a chronic skin condition. Eczema can worsen over time, and while some children outgrow it, many others still have it. Recent studies have revealed a possible connection between the gut microbiome and infantile eczema, opening up new avenues for prevention and treatment. In this article, we'll explore this connection and we’ll talk about our eczema diagnosis in Puerto Banus.
Incidence of Eczema in Children
Itchy, cracked, and dry skin are the hallmarks of eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis. This condition is difficult for both children and their parents because, regrettably, there is currently no cure. It is important to remember that although eczema does go away in some kids, many others still have it, and the severity of the symptoms can worsen as they get older.
Examining the Relationship Between Eczema and Gut Health
An investigation was carried out by scientists from The Chinese University of Hong Kong to determine whether there may be a connection between eczema in infancy and the gut microbiome. Pregnant women who were about to give birth participated in the study and gave information about their lifestyle choices both before and after becoming pregnant. After 112 babies were born, the research team also gathered information on their diet, medications, and overall health. Throughout the course of the infants' first three years of life, they collected nine stool samples, allowing them to closely monitor how each baby's gut microbiome developed.
Eczema is becoming more common, and it may be because of unfavourable bacterial changes in the gut, especially in the first year of life. For the purpose of reestablishing a more advantageous composition of gut bacteria, this initial phase seems to be crucial.
Risk Factors for Eczema and Gut Bacteria
The analysis of the study showed variations in the gut microbiota's composition and diversity during the first three years of the infants' lives. The mode of delivery, the use of antibiotics during labour, and the infant feeding practises were some of the elements that contributed to the gut microbiome becoming established in the first 12 months.
Moreover, specific alterations in the gut microbiota were noted shortly before infants received an eczema diagnosis. One type of bacteria known as Bacteroides decreased while Clostridium sensu stricto 1 increased as a result of these modifications.
Interestingly, these patterns were also seen in infants born by caesarean section, pointing to a possible connection between gut microbiota and the higher risk of eczema that comes with caesarean deliveries.
Treatment for Eczema in Infants
Experts in the field have deemed the study's findings to be confirmatory. Knowing how the gut microbiota affects skin health is crucial, especially when it comes to anticipating the onset of atopic dermatitis.
This study may have an effect on choices made about elective C-sections and the use of antibiotics during childbirth.
The Research Needs to Be Continued
Although the study's results are encouraging, experts believe that more varied research is required to support and build on them. The consistency of the relationship between the gut microbiome and eczema may be established by repeating the study in areas with diverse diets and environmental factors.
A few experts also emphasised how critical it is to comprehend the causes of dysbiosis in the gut microbiome and its relationship to the skin microbiome. They brought up the "leaky gut and leaky skin barrier" hypothesis, which contends that a compromised gut and skin barrier is the root of the problem before bacterial imbalance (dysbiosis) sets in. Although pollutants and microplastics in the environment may exacerbate this imbalance, more practical treatment suggestions are required.
What is known about eczema in infants?
Eczema can appear at any age, but about 85% of cases are identified by the age of five, and almost half of all diagnoses are made within the first year of life. Researchers have discovered several genetic and environmental factors that can aggravate a baby's sensitive skin and cause eczema, even though the precise cause of atopic dermatitis is still unknown. These elements comprise:
- reactions caused by allergies to specific foods, bath soaps, or laundry detergent.
- irritation brought on by smoke from cigarettes, pollution, abrupt temperature changes, and other environmental elements.
- excessive responses from the immune system.
- genetic susceptibility to allergies, asthma, or eczema.
- genetic changes that affect a baby's skin's outer layer.
Treatment and Symptoms
Age-related variations in eczema symptoms are possible, but typically involve a dry, scaly rash on the face, scalp, and large joints like the elbows and knees. If this rash is scratched, it may ooze and become itchy again. Eczema can develop in the neck, ankles, wrists, and creases of the knees and elbows in children older than 2 years old.
In order to treat eczema, doctors usually moisturise the skin and minimise inflammation. Common therapies include biologic drugs that help control the immune system and reduce inflammation, as well as medicated topical creams and ointments. Other treatments are moisturising creams, staying away from allergens, dressing in natural fibres, and washing with gentle, fragrance-free soap.
Eczema Diagnosis in Puerto Banus
Comprehensive healthcare is our top priority at Helicopteros Sanitarios Hospital, and we are dedicated to our patients' well-being, which includes the diagnosis and treatment of skin disorders like eczema. Our skilled medical staff is prepared to provide prompt and accurate eczema diagnoses. We are aware of the psychological and physical toll that eczema can have on people, and our cutting-edge diagnostic centres make sure that patients get the exact care they require. In order to enhance your quality of life, we provide a comprehensive approach to eczema management that combines medical knowledge and patient education. The goal of Helicopteros Sanitarios Hospital is to help you achieve happier, healthier skin. If you want to know more about our Eczema Diagnosis in Puerto Banus, contact us here.