Left Untreated the affected skin area may become thick and scaly.
Symptoms of eczema vary widely from person to person. There are different symptoms for different types of eczema, and within each type the severity of symptoms can vary enormously.
In all cases, eczema symptoms are limited to the skin. Although causes of eczema can include a family history of eczema and other conditions such as hay fever and asthma, which a person may also suffer from, eczema itself does not have any other symptoms.
An eczema rash can range from a peeling or “raw” areas of skin (most often in adults) to a raised and angry-looking red rash (commonly seen in baby eczema).
- The rash may appear by itself or after the area is scratched, because it is itchy.
- The skin may be extremely itchy, though sometimes it is not itchy at all – the rash develops by itself.
- Eczema rashes are most common on the face and scalp, especially around the hairline, on hands and feet, and in folded areas such as the inner elbow and behind the knees.
- The symptoms of eczema can be made worse by scratching, clothing or detergents and occasionally certain types of foods.
- When irritated or untreated, an eczema rash may swell and become bumpy or blistered.
- Bumps and blisters are often watery, and vulnerable to scratching.
When the symptoms of eczema are left untreated for some time, the affected areas of skin become thicker, often scaly and more troublesome. They may also become infected where the surface skin has been scratched away.
Many eczema sufferers find that the symptoms tend to become worse when they are stressed, tired or not eating as nutritiously as usual.
Treating the Symptoms of Eczema
Many people neglect to deal with their eczema because it is not too troublesome, or because it tends to come and go. However, it is important to treat affected areas, even in less troubling types of eczema. An eczema rash can quickly become painful and possibly infected.
There are many eczema treatment options available from home remedies, such as those provided in Eczema Free Forever, to over the counter eczema creams and prescription medications.
It is advisable to take advantage of these, to ease the severity of repeat flare ups, and help your skin deal with eczema naturally and effectively.
It is also advisable to opt for natural eczema treatment where possible, for regular day to day use. Many prescribed and over the counter medications, including popular eczema creams, can be harmful to the skin if used on a regular basis. This is particularly important for baby eczema treatment as a baby’s skin is particularly vulnerable.
