What is atopic dermatitis (eczema)?
Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a condition that makes your skin red and itchy. It's common in children but can occur at any age.
Atopic dermatitis is long-lasting (chronic) and tends to flare periodically. It may be accompanied by asthma or hay fever.
No cure has been found for atopic dermatitis. But treatments and self-care measures can relieve itching and prevent new outbreaks.
Atopic dermatitis (eczema) signs and symptoms vary widely from person to person and include:
- Dry skin
- Itching, which may be severe, especially at night
- Red to brownish-gray patches, especially on the hands, feet, ankles, wrists, neck, upper chest, eyelids, inside the bend of the elbows and knees, and in infants, the face and scalp
- Small, raised bumps, which may leak fluid and crust over when scratched
- Thickened, cracked, scaly skin
- Raw, sensitive, swollen skin from scratching
The primary risk factor for atopic dermatitis is having a personal or family history of eczema, allergies, hay fever, or asthma.
In some children, food allergies may play a role in causing eczema.
Certain genetic variations, environment, allergens, and irritants are also noteworthy.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/atopic-dermatitis-
eczema/symptoms-causes/syc-20353273
