Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It is a chronic condition that can occur at any age, but it is most common in young children. Eczema is not contagious, and it is caused by an interaction between genes and environmental triggers. The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but researchers know that it results from an overactive immune system that causes the skin barrier to become dry and itchy.

Symptoms of eczema can vary widely from person to person, but the most common symptom is itchy skin. Other symptoms include dry skin, rashes, scaly patches, blisters, and skin infections. Eczema can occur anywhere on the body, but it most often occurs where the skin flexes, such as inside the elbows, behind the knees, and in front of the neck.

There are treatments available to help manage eczema symptoms, but there is no cure. Treatments include at-home remedies, over-the-counter medications, and prescription medications. Identifying environmental triggers and avoiding them can reduce the risk of an eczema flare-up in the future. People with eczema are at risk of developing food allergies, hay fever, and asthma.

In summary, eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It is not contagious and is caused by an interaction between genes and environmental triggers. While there is no cure for eczema, there are treatments available to help manage symptoms.