No-one knows for sure what the true cause of eczema is although some theories believe there are genetic links; whether this is the reason or some outside influence, remains a mystery. A person who suffers with this condition will have red, dry and itchy patches of skin. 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.

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. Scratching helps, especially with atopic eczema but this is guaranteed to worsen the situation and make it flare up. People who suffer with this also have to stay clear of many everyday substances because using those makes the condition far worse; sufferers usually have reactions to washing detergents, soaps and even makeup.

When it is found in young children it is usually seen just below the surface of the skin as a small patch. There are occasions where a person with eczema can have a rash but it is not itchy; if this ‘itchiness' is not present in a person who suffers with the condition then it is unlikely to be a symptom of it. 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.

The problem is that because it is possible to have other medical conditions where itching is a symptom that diagnosis cannot be made this simply. 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. One of the more noticeable symptoms of is the red skin in the location of the rash which is caused by increased blood flow.

Eczema inflammation can have many triggers and more about this is being discovered constantly; one such cause can be the result of bacterial infection. Most blisters seen as part of the symptoms are quite small but large blisters can also occur; an infection or just a genetic trait of the sufferer could be the reasons for this. Every sufferer is warned about blisters as they can be damaged by scratching or carelessness and whilst some are filled with fluid, others have a pus like substance; great care is required not to make matters worse (by scratching) than they already are.