Symptoms of Eczema

Eczema looks different at different ages and during flares, but the itch is the common thread.

Main symptoms

• Itching, often worse at night, which can disturb sleep.
• Dry, rough, scaly skin.
• Red or darker patches, which can look brown, purple or grey on darker skin.
• Small bumps that may ooze or crust when scratched.
• Thickened, leathery skin (lichenification) after long-term scratching.
• Cracks that can sting or bleed, especially on hands and feet.

Where it appears

• Babies: cheeks, scalp, outer arms and legs.
• Children: folds of the elbows and knees, wrists, ankles and neck.
• Adults: folds, hands, eyelids and neck, but any area can be affected.

Flare-ups and quiet periods. Eczema comes and goes. A flare may last days or weeks, and skin can look near-normal in between.

Signs of infection or a serious problem - see a doctor soon

• Weeping, yellow crusts or honey-coloured scabs, pus, or increasing pain and warmth.
• Fever or feeling unwell with a flare.
• Clusters of painful, punched-out blisters that spread quickly (possible eczema herpeticum). This is urgent. Go to hospital the same day.
• Eczema that keeps sleep or school or work away for weeks despite regular treatment.

Not sure it is eczema? Scabies, fungal infections, psoriasis and contact allergy can look similar, so a doctor or dermatologist should confirm the diagnosis, especially if creams are not helping.

Early, regular care keeps the skin comfortable and prevents scratching damage.