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Eczema : Causes and Sypmtoms of Eczema

By: Ray Lam. The exact cause of eczema is not known for sure but some believe that it can be the result of a genetic predisposition; others believe there are certain factors that influence its development. This skin condition is easy to recognize with areas of dry, red skin that are very itchy. In serious cases the skin becomes blistered with scabs forming around the affected area.

There are many types but the most common of all is the atopic eczema; this too is known, like the rest, to have a severe itching symptom. The main problem with the itching, especially with atopic eczema is that scratching brings relief but at a cost of intensifying the condition. Another problem caused by the condition is it makes the skin more sensitive to almost any substance; substances such as cosmetics, soaps and detergents products are just a few they must avoid if they do not wish flare-ups.

When it is found in young children it is usually seen just below the surface of the skin as a small patch. Although the primary factor with eczema is itching you might still be susceptible to normal rashes; if the rash is not itchy then it is more than certain that you are not suffering from this complaint. A similar situation can occur when a person is given eczema treatment for an itchy rash and it helps the itch but the rash remains then the two probably aren't connected.

The diagnosis of the skin disorder is not that simple because there are other medical conditions which cause itchy skin. Whilst Eczema and a rash always coexist at the same time, the reason the rash itches is still a mystery. The blood flow in the area affected is the reason the rash looks so red and this can be made worse when the same area or areas are scratched by the sufferer.

The reason the skin can suddenly flare up with eczema and become inflamed is complex because many factors can be involved; scratching can lead to bacteria infecting the area and making the inflammation worse. Sufferers also exhibit blisters quite frequently which are normally quite small although bigger blisters are sometimes visible; this can be the result either of an infection of the skin or the type of condition you have. Most often, the blisters seen as a symptom are filled with fluid; sufferers are advised never to burst them and create further infection in an already highly sensitive area.