by Marshall Brown

Created on: October 09, 2008   Last Updated: October 20, 2008

1. What is Eczema and what are the symptoms?

Eczema is also referred to as Dermatitis, simplified by: inflammation of the skin. Eczema is a treatable condition that involves swelling of the skin, redness, itching, irritation, and dry flaking skin, sometimes resulting in the flesh peeling away. It is considered to be hereditary and occurs either your entire life or at intervals throughout you life. Eczema has also been linked to asthma and allergy problems. There are many types of eczema:

Common forms:

A. Atopic Eczema- rash on the head, scalp, neck, inside elbows, behind knees, and buttocks.

B. Contact Dermatitis- resulting from allergic or irritants, such as poison ivy, nickel, or wet cement.

C. Xerotic Eczema- dry skin from dry weather resulting in eczema.

D. Seborrhoeic- scaling of the scalp and eyebrows.

Less common forms:

A. Dyshidrosis- occurs only on palms, soles, and sides of fingers.

B. Discoid Eczema- often on lower legs, producing dry rash or oozing round spots.

C. Venuous Eczema- occurs in elderly or people with edema, related to circulatory problems.

D. Dermatitis Herpetiformis- intensely itchy, symmetrical rash on arms, thighs, knees and back.

E. Neurodermatitis- localized scratching producing thickened are of eczema.

F. Autoeczematization- reaction with parasites, fungi, bacteria, and viruses.

2. Who is susceptible to Eczema?

Eczema has no age discrepancies and affects people of all ages. When being diagnosed for eczema, doctors look into diet, medication, and family history. Allergens usually are a major cause of inflammation, and tests can be performed to isolate the causes.

3. What treatments are available?

Eczema creams are available to reduce the effects, and control the flaking of the skin and irritation. Medication can also be prescribed to enhance the body's ability to fight the condition. Singulair is a prescribed form of treatment for eczema that holds promise. This is because Singulair can help prevent allergic reactions and prevent asthma, going straight to the main causes of eczema sufferers.

4. Is there a cure for Eczema?

There are no known cures for eczema, the focus is on controlling the symptoms to alleviate the inflammation and relieve itching. Many people don't realize they have the symptoms and don't receive the correct diagnosis.

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