What Is Eczema?

Answer:

Eczema on arms.

Symptoms include dry, reddened skin that itches or burns, blisters and oozing lesions, and thickened crusty skin as a result of repeated scratching. There’s often a family history of the condition as well as other allergic conditions, such as asthma or hay fever.

Doctors do not know the exact cause of eczema, but an abnormal function of the immune system is believed to be a factor. It can also be triggered by substances that come into contact with the skin, such as soaps, cosmetics, changes in temperature or humidity, or even psychological stress.

Eczema typically occurs on the face, neck, and the inside of the elbows, knees and ankles.