Ask Dr Yiannis

OUR EXPERT, DR YIANNIS IOANNOU, CONSULTANT PAEDIATRICIAN AT THE PORTLAND HOSPITAL, DISCUSSES ALLERGIC CONDITIONS WITH DR HELEN BROUGH, PAEDIATRIC ALLERGIST

Allergic conditions such as eczema, food allergies, hayfever and asthma are very common and can affect your baby from a young age. How do you spot a potential problem, when should you visit your doctor and how can you help alleviate their symptoms?

I am concerned that my little one has eczema. What is eczema, and how is it best treated?

"Eczema is extremely individual and no two babies are the same, so the treatment plan has to be specific to the child," says Dr. Yiannis.

"Dry skin in babies is very common but eczema causes skin to appear red, dry, flaky and itchy and the skin can bleed and get infected. In babies, this may appear on the cheeks and the outer aspect of the arms and the legs. In older children, it may appear to be worse inside the elbows and behind the knees. It is not a contagious condition and there may be a family history of eczema or other allergic conditions.

"Moisturising with an emollient is very important. There are many suitable products available, including bath additives but they are best chosen in discussions with your doctor.

"Your doctor may also prescribe a steroid cream or ointment, to reduce inflammation and redness. These are safe and effective on babies' skin.

"Many moisturising creams bought over the counter may contain fragrances, preservatives and food extracts that can actually irritate sensitive skin," says Dr Helen Brough. "So choosing the correct product with the advice of your doctor is recommended."

How will I know if my baby has hayfever?