Eczema can be described as a generalized term for various inflamed skin complaints, and one of the most common forms is atopic eczema. Although eczema varies in appearance from person to person, it can usually be characterized by red, very itchy blotches on the skin. People often refer to the condition as the “itch that rashes” because when an itch is scratched, a rash appears.

Eczema can occur almost anywhere on the body, and typically on the face, neck, insides of elbows and knees and the ankles. It affects people in different ways, with some reporting oozing blisters, and others scaly, dry and red skin. In time the skin becomes leathery in texture and thickens due to chronic scratching.

A lot of substances have been found to act as “triggers” in individuals suffering from eczema and these triggers are not the same for everybody. Some of these triggers include coarse material in contact with skin, causing an itch; feeling hot and sweaty; soaps detergents and disinfectants; dust mites, juices; animal saliva; respiratory infections; and stress.

Eczema can occur in both adults and children but usually appears at infancy. Even though there is no obvious cause for the condition, it does seem to affect individuals with a family history of different allergies. Outbreaks can frequently be avoided by following some simple precautions: moisturizing frequently, avoiding sudden temperature fluctuations, try to avoid sweating, reducing stress and avoiding “scratchy” materials, avoiding harsh detergents.

Eczema