25 Best Doctors for Eczema available in Kolkata

Eczema is a common skin condition, which is non-contagious (cannot spread from person to person by contact), characterised by skin redness and itching and is commonly seen in children (sometimes adult).

The symptoms mainly include the following in the affected area:
- Redness or dark-coloured patches
- Itching
- Rashes
- Scratch marks
- Inflammation
- Swelling
- Oozing
- Crusting
These rashes are generally noticed on the scalp, cheeks, elbows and knees in children, whereas it is observed on the face, neck, elbows, wrist and ankles in adults.

Variations in the normal gene cause eczema. The skin provides protection against environmental irritants, bacteria and other microorganisms and allergens under normal conditions. Due to variations in genes, the skin's ability to protect is lost. In children, eczema is caused by food allergy.

The different types of eczema include:
Atopic eczema (most common and characterised by dry, itchy and scaly skin)
- Seborrheic eczema (red scaly patch seen on the ears, nose, eyebrows and scalp)
- Discoid eczema with oval patches
- Dyshidrotic eczema (tiny blisters on the hands)
- Varicose eczema (affecting the lower legs)
- Contact dermatitis (due to contact with certain substances)

The individuals more prone to eczema include those with:
- Personal or family history of hay fever
- Asthma
- Allergies