Eczema

Eczema is a term for several different types of skin swelling. Eczema is also called dermatitis. It is not dangerous, but most types cause red, swollen, and itchy skin. Factors that can cause eczema include other diseases, irritating substances, allergies, and your genetic makeup. Eczema is not contagious.

More than 30 million Americans may have eczema. The red, itchy rash can appear all over the body. Babies often have eczema on the face, especially the cheeks and chin. They can also have it on the scalp, chest, back, and outer arms and legs. Children and adults tend to have eczema on the neck, wrists, and ankles, and in areas that bend, like the inner elbow and knee. The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis. It is an allergic condition that makes your skin dry and itchy. It is most common in babies and children.

People with eczema are usually diagnosed with it when they are babies or young children. Eczema symptoms often become less severe as children grow into adults. For some people, eczema continues into adulthood. Less often, it can start in adulthood. The rash of eczema is different for each person. It may even look different or affect different parts of your body from time to time. It can be mild, moderate, or severe. Generally, people with eczema suffer from dry, sensitive skin. Eczema is also known for its intense itch. The itch may be so bad that you scratch your skin until it bleeds, which can make your rash even worse, leading to even more inflammation and itching. This is called the itch-scratch cycle.

Eczema is a chronic disease. You can prevent some types of eczema by avoiding irritants, stress, and the things you are allergic to. Treatments and self-care measures can relieve itching and prevent new outbreaks.

The exact cause of eczema is unknown. Healthy skin helps retain moisture and protects you from bacteria, irritants, and allergens. Eczema is likely related to a mix of factors:

• Dry, irritable skin, which reduces the skin's ability to be an effective barrier
• A gene variation that affects the skin's barrier function
• Immune system dysfunction
• Bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, on the skin that creates a film that blocks sweat glands
• Environmental conditions

See your doctor if itching keeps you up at night, moisturizers are not enough, or the skin looks infected (oozing, crusting, warmth, or worsening redness).