Eczema

Eczema is term for a group of medical conditions that cause the skin to become inflamed or irritated. The most common type of eczema is known as atopic dermatitis, or atopic eczema. Atopic refers to a group of diseases with an often inherited tendency to develop other allergic conditions, such as asthma and hay fever.

Eczema can be triggered by just about anything coming in contact with the skin. It occurs in atopic people, who are extra sensitive to skin irritation. Dry, flaky skin appears over red, inflamed areas, causing intense itching and burning. Sometimes the itching will start before the rash appears, but when it does the rash most commonly occurs on the face, knees, hands, or feet. It may also affect other areas as well.

The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but it's thought to be linked to an overactive response by the body's immune system to unknown triggers. In addition, eczema is commonly found in families with a history of other allergies or asthma.

The goal of treatment for eczema is to relieve and prevent itching, which can lead to infection. Since the disease makes skin dry and itchy, lotions and creams are recommended to keep the skin moist. These solutions are usually applied when the skin is damp, such as after bathing, to help the skin retain moisture.