The classic eczema symptoms are itchiness, redness, dryness and scaling of the skin. However, there are also many other eczema symptoms that are not obviously related to the skin. Symptoms such as thirst caused by loss of fluid from the skins tissues, over sensitivity to cold and heat, and the prevalence of other allergic conditions such as asthma and hay fever, are all types of eczema symptoms that many people experience.

In many cases it looks so bad that a lot of people think it must be contagious or so the old wives tale goes. Like many wives tales though, it is fallacy rather than fact.

Skin that is dry will often be sore and irritated. Therefore, the first line of treatment for eczema tends to be to lubricate and moisten the skin. This will replace water and oils that have been lost due to the skin condition.

It is hard to deny ourselves the pleasures of the sun and indeed we shouldn’t have to. It is simply a matter of taking the time to minimise the risk of sun induced skin damage.

There are countless types of home remedy’s for eczema that well meaning people have passed on over time. A home remedy for eczema is often formulated through trial and error. Each one of us is different and our bodies respond differently to different regimens.

Within our society thousands of adults and children suffer from eczema. The most common form of eczema is atopic eczema, which is triggered by allergies.

The word eczema comes from the Greek language, and it means to ”BOIL OVER”. It is a description that sums up only too vividly the classic eczema symptoms that are associated with the disease.

Children love to play. It’s what they do best. Playing helps a child to grow, develop and learn.

When you have an unwell child it is all to easy to wrap them up in cotton wool and stop them from doing what is only natural for any child – playing.

Over recent years we have seen a trend towards natural products. It is often thought that if it is natural it must be safe. It is true that natural products do not contain the harmful man-made chemicals known to be harsh on the skin. It is however fallacy that natural ingredients will not cause an allergic reaction.

How do I know if I have eczema or psoriasis?

The answer is simple – you have to ask your doctor. Only a doctor can give you a definite diagnosis. However there are some typical characteristics that may help to give you a clue.