What Is Eczema

Eczema is a very common problem that affects one in ten of us. When eczema develops early in life, it is mainly referred to as atopic dermatitis and usually run in families with a history of allergies such as hayfever and asthma.

Although eczema most often appears on the neck, inside the elbows, and inside the knees, wrists, and ankles, it can crop up anywhere on the body. The condition is especially frustrating because the itching leads to scratching, and scratching only increases the inflammation underlying the condition. Eczema-prone skin then not only flakes but also thickens. In the worst cases, eczema lesions can ooze and scratching can make the skin bleed and become infected. This combination of symptoms is particularly troublesome in skin of color, which is more prone to developing pigmentation problems in response to any kind of inflammation, irritation, or injury.

The cause of eczema is not known, but the condition can be exacerbated by a number of “triggers”-irritants or allergens in your environment. They include: Excessive heat Sweating Hot baths and heavy use of soaps Animal dander Scratchy clothing such as wool Foods such as dairy products, nuts, wheat, soy, seafood and eggs Stress-which can precipitate or aggravate an outbreak Dry, cool weather