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Even worse: Its not always easy to identify whether or not eczema is actually the culprit.
Simi Jois/Adobe Stock
Everything fromallergiesto a condition likepsoriasiscan cause skin issues that may seem like eczema symptoms.
Youll also find a few tips on how to prevent an outbreak and how to find relief.
What is eczema?
Eczemais a chronic skin condition that causes itching and inflammation, theMayo Clinicexplains.
This means that when most people say eczema, theyre probably talking about atopic dermatitis.
Its more common in people who already have atopic dermatitis, according to theAAD.
These rashes also tend to include extreme itching and last for several weeks, theMayo Clinicexplains.
Then they cluster to form a coin-shapedrash, theAADexplains.
Seborrheic dermatitis occurs on your scalp and is often called seborrheic eczema or seborrheicpsoriasis, theMayo Clinicexplains.
It might also be due to an overactive immune system, theMayo Clinicexplains.
Sometimes called venous eczema, theAADsays that this bang out of eczema is often sparked by poor circulation.
Additionally, your skin might feel swollen, sore, and irritated, theAADsays.
What causes eczema?
Eczema is a chronic condition, but different things can make it worse and trigger outbreaks.
Bailey Skin Care, tells SELF.
Is eczema basically just dry skin?
Nope, its way more complicated than that.
If your skin is dry, its probably going to be a little itchy at some point.
But itchiness from eczema can be a whole other ball game.
Besides dry, itchy skin, what are the other eczema symptoms?
It might feel irresistible to attack your eczema with your nails, but try not to.
If you scratch, your skin may also become swollen and raw, theMayo Clinicexplains.
How do you treat eczema?
Can you prevent eczema outbreaks?
Look for ones that have as few fragrances, alcohols, and dyes as possible.
You may just need to pick your moisturizer wisely and apply it more often.
Moisturizing your skin two to three times a day with heavy ointments like petroleum jelly may help, theNIAIDsays.
You might even consider getting ahumidifierto keep more moisture in the air at your home.
