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What Is eczema?
eczema (pronounced: ek-zeh-ma) is a group of skin conditions that
cause skin to become irritated. Teens who have it may develop rashes more
easily and more frequently than others. There are many forms of
eczema, but atopic (pronounced: ay-tah-pik) eczema is the most
common form. Doctors don't know exactly what causes atopic eczema,
also called atopic dermatitis (pronounced: der-muh-tie-tis), but they
think it's caused by a difference in the way a person's immune system
reacts to things. Skin allergies may be involved in some forms of
eczema.
If you have eczema, you're probably not the only one you know who
has it. eczema isn't contagious like a cold or mono, but most people
with eczema have family members with the same condition, so
researchers think it's inherited or passed through the genes. In general,
it's fairly common - about 3% of all the people in the United States have
eczema.
People with eczema also may have asthma and certain allergies, such
as hay fever. In some people with eczema, food allergies (such as
allergies to cow's milk, soy, eggs, fish, or wheat) may bring on or worsen
eczema. Allergies to animal dander, rough fabrics, and dust may also
trigger the condition in some teens.
Signs and Symptoms
It can be difficult to avoid all the triggers, or irritants, that may
cause your eczema to flare or become worse. In teens and young
adults, the itchy patches of eczema usually break out where the
elbow bends; on the backs of the knees, ankles, and wrists; and on the
face, neck, and upper chest - although any part of the body can be
affected.
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