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Eczema is an inflammation of your skin which causes patches of skin dryness and itchiness. It tends to run in families – meaning that if one person in a family has it, it’s more likely that other people in the family will have it too.
One in ten people under the age of 18 have it, however only half of the people who have it when they are young will still have it when they are old.
People get eczema when they’re young, over four out of five get it before they are seven years old. So if you’re a teenager and you haven’t had it yet, it’s less likely that you will.
There is currently no cure for eczema but there are lots of ways to ease the discomfort and distress which eczema brings and it's all based around an effective skincare routine.
A wide range of treatments is available, either over the counter at the pharmacy, or on prescription from your doctor. You may find complementary therapies helpful.
Having eczema is not dangerous but it can make you a bit miserable because it is so itchy and uncomfortable and because of the way it looks.
These websites have more information on eczema and how to get further help.
Eczema Society
The Eczema Society has some advice for children and teenagers on how to cope with eczema.
Medinfo
This site has details on self-help and books you might find useful.
Netdoctor
More on the various types of eczema and their symptoms
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