Eczema is a disorder which results in dry, itchy, inflamed skin. There are many types of eczema and they usually have the same symptoms of intense itch, a recurring rash, scaly areas of skin, or rough and leathery patches. If you, or your child, are bothered by any of these symptoms, it is likely to be eczema, of which atopic dermatitis is the most often type. Other types include seborrhoeic eczema (a common cause of “dandruff”), irritant contact dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis.
Eczema tends to run in families with a history of asthma or hay fever (allergic rhinitis). Other factors that can trigger eczema are exercise, heat and sweating, woollen clothing, grass intolerance or emotional stress.