Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is an inflammatory skin condition that causes dry, itchy, red and sometimes weeping patches of skin. It commonly starts in childhood and can flare throughout life, often alongside asthma or hay fever.
Management combines daily moisturisers, avoiding individual triggers and prescription treatments such as topical corticosteroids or newer non steroid options during flares. A doctor can also review whether infection is complicating a flare, which changes the treatment approach.