No-one knows for sure what the true cause of eczema is although some theories believe there are genetic links; whilst some believe that external causes are to blame for the condition. This skin complaint can cause a number of problems for the sufferer including patches that are excessively dry but it is the constant itchy feeling that must be the most irritating. These are not the only signs because someone who suffers with it may also have some blisters in these areas that appear to have a crust like surface.

Many types of eczema exist with the most popular form called atopic eczema; irrespective of the type you have, the most common symptom is itching. However, the itching sensation is much more pronounced, and if a person with atopic eczema scratches their skin, the condition is just exacerbated. Another problem caused by the condition is it makes the skin more sensitive to almost any substance; the skin can easily become irritated by detergents, soap and even cosmetics for example.

In children, the condition is less noticeable because it is hidden below the surface of the skin which means it may be overlooked for some time. Itching is the primary trade mark of eczema, although a rash can also present when you suffer from it; in these situations it is not the disorder causing the problem as itching is the one consistent factor with the condition. If the rash itches and reacts well to eczema treatment but the rash does not disappear then there is a good chance the rash is unrelated to the itchy feeling.

Itchy skin is not the only symptom to diagnose the skin complaint because many health conditions can cause itchiness. Keep in mind though that eczema without a rash does not exist and it is still a problem today to fully understand the cause of itching. Red skin is another symptom of and this is as a result of the increased blood flow in the area.

Eczema inflammation can have many triggers and more about this is being discovered constantly; it can also flare up if your skin gets infected by a bacteria. Blisters are also a symptom and in an active condition, the blisters seen are small, although there are cases when the blisters are larger; an infection or just a genetic trait of the sufferer could be the reasons for this. This is a situation that needs to be monitored as the blisters contain fluids; further infection is almost assured if the blisters are damaged, this is why scratching can just aggravate an already sensitive condition.