What causes eczema and what is the real reason why I have eczema? Experts say that eczema can be caused by a staph infection such as staphylococcus aureus, impetigo in children, and bacterial infections.
Eczema is a type of severe dry skin that causes flaky skin, itching, and redness; and while dealing with these obvious symptoms it is hard not to worry that the condition will spread farther then what it already has on one's body.
The worst thing to do to a patch of eczema on the body is to scratch it.
By scratching the affected area it is opening up the body for infections where a bad bacterium has entered the body.
While it is easy to reach out and scratch a spot on the body that itches; one needs to be made aware that scratching is one of the worst things that a person can do when they have eczema.
Applying a cool damp compress to the itchy area can help relief the discomfort, also applying certain topical creams, lotions, or moisturizers to the affected areas can help eliminate itching.
Keeping one's fingernails trimmed short will help discourage scratching, using soft mittens to hide the fingernails helps small children keep from scratching, and lightly patting the itching area helps to ease the discomfort rather then scratching and irritating the skin.
Ingesting an over the counter or prescription antihistamine can help lesson the itching sensation; along with soothing oatmeal baths help to add moisture to the body.
If at any time the red, itchy skin develops blisters, pus pockets, or becomes warm to the touch, then it is best to seek the advice of a medical professional; for these are all indications that there is a deeper problem at hand besides just a normal case of itchy, flaky eczema.