The reason why it occurs is because the skin becomes inflamed due to irritants present in the environment or because of other physical conditions. In fact, eczema can strike each and every one of us, though those with a prior family history of it will be more likely to suffer from this disease than others.

Presently there is no cure, though it can be treated so effectively that relief will be immediate. Disease and infection protection is the main function of the skin. Eczema results when this function becomes compromised due to oversensitive irritants, also known as external triggers.

Eczema knows no age limits, and can affect adults as well as infants and children. When the disease is observed in infants, it will appear on the cheeks and forehead, scalp or neck, as well as the forearms and potentially the legs. In many cases there will be patches of skin that will turn red and become very itchy. These patches are known to develop on the neck, face, inside of elbows, ankles and the knees.

There are several different forms of eczema that can develop depending on the type and nature of the irritant. One of the most common forms of eczema is atopic dermatitis. Patients with this type of eczema are also at risk for developing food allergies, asthma and hay fever.

Occupational eczema is another form of skin condition that occurs due to the environment that a person works in. Still another variety of this disease is known as nummular eczema. In this, you will notice splotched skin that can be worsened if one wears tight fitting clothes.

Eczema has no known cure yet, though a change in lifestyle will be effective in treating it. Furthermore, it is best to keep the skin well-hydrated in order to prevent a flare-up of this disease.