Eczema

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition. Eczema often presents as dry, itchy and reddened skin.

The reason why certain people develop eczema is largely unknown. It is common for people with eczema to also have other allergies (ASCIA 2019; Health Direct 2017). This suggests that genetic factors increase the likelihood of a person developing eczema (ASCIA 2019).

What Is Eczema?

In the case of eczema, a person’s skin is not retaining moisture well. This makes the skin prone to dryness, as well as making it more open to allergens and irritants. If a person then scratches the skin the skin can become even itchier. This is called the ‘itch-scratch cycle’, it can cause discomfort and may disrupt sleep and impact quality of life (ASCIA 2019).

Eczema has certain triggers such as environmental irritants, certain fabrics, heat and, in some cases, particular foods, and these triggers should be avoided (Better Health Channel 2018).

People who have eczema often find that there are periods during which it is more manageable and times when it’s less - the less manageable periods are known as flare-ups (NHS 2016).

Managing eczema usually involves both general skin care strategies as well as prescription treatments. While eczema is manageable, the effect of this condition on people should not be underestimated. Eczema can have a profound effect on everyday life, particularly on physical and mental health. It is worth noting that eczema is not contagious (Better Health Channel 2018).