Eczema
Itchy, dry and inflamed skin, often long term and relapsing.
Overview
Atopic eczema results from a combination of skin barrier dysfunction and immune overactivity. It flares and settles, and management focuses on barrier repair and inflammation control.
Common symptoms
Itching
An uncomfortable sensation prompting scratching.
Dryness
Rough, tight or flaking skin.
Redness
Persistent or intermittent facial or skin redness.
Why it happens
Filaggrin gene variation, environmental irritants, allergens, stress and climate.
Self-care that helps
Apply emollients generously several times daily, take short lukewarm showers and avoid soap-based cleansers.
When to seek advice
Seek advice for widespread flares, weeping or crusted skin suggesting infection, or sleep disruption from itching.
