No-one knows for sure what the true cause of eczema is although some theories believe there are genetic links; it could however, be the result of something else entirely. The signs are quite unmistakable, with areas of dry, red and itchy skin that are very pronounced. Small crusty blisters may also be present in the affected areas.

Although there are a number of different types, the most common is atopic eczema; like all the other types, this one is characterized by itching as well. Atopic eczema brings with increased itching compare to other forms but is relieved when the sufferer scratches; unfortunately this just makes the condition worse. Another effect is the skin becomes hypersensitive to certain products which just make the condition 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.

In small children it can usually be seen, in most cases, as a patch just below the child's skin. Although the primary factor with eczema is itching you might still be susceptible to normal rashes; in these situations it is not the disorder causing the problem as itching is the one consistent factor with the condition. There are instances where a rash might not be cleared up with an eczema cream but the itching eases, this can mean the two were unrelated.

Because itching is a symptom in many problems related to the skin, including this skin disorder, this is not the basis of diagnosing the condition. 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.

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; an infection or just a genetic trait of the sufferer could be the reasons for this. These blisters may contain small amounts of fluid and in some cases a pus; great care is required not to make matters worse (by scratching) than they already are.