Eczema : What Is Atopic 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.

The most common type is known generally as atopic eczema; some are even specific to certain areas of the body but one common problem among all of them is itching. Unfortunately, with atopic eczema, scratching these affected areas aggravates the condition more even though it does bring temporary relief from the itching. People who suffer with this also have to stay clear of many everyday substances because using those makes the condition far worse; sufferers avoid contact with soaps and washing powders but other man-made items such as make-up can have the same effect as well.

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.

However, itchy skin is not necessarily a sign of this disorder as many other conditions can make a person have itchy skin, so this cannot be the only basis for a diagnosis. Eczema itching and rashes go hand in hand but medical science still can't full explain why the skin itches the way it does. The redness seen in the rash is the result of increased blood flow in the area, sometimes caused by the scratching.

Eczema inflammation can have many triggers and more about this is being discovered constantly; one such cause can be the result of bacterial infection. The other obvious signs are of course the blisters which generally speaking are quite tiny but larger blisters can be seen on people occasionally; a bacterial infection or a condition of your particular skin type many be the cause of this. These blisters may contain small amounts of fluid and in some cases a pus; sufferers are advised never to burst them and create further infection in an already highly sensitive area.