Eczema, also known as Atopic Dermatitis, is a common skin condition that causes inflammation, irritation, and intense itching. It can affect people of all ages, but it often begins in childhood and may continue into adulthood. Understanding the signs of eczema can help you recognize it early and manage symptoms before they worsen.The most noticeable symptom of eczema is constant itching. This itching can range from mild to severe and often becomes worse at night. Scratching may provide temporary relief but usually makes the condition worse, leading to further irritation and skin damage.

People with eczema often have very dry and sensitive skin. The skin may feel rough, tight, or flaky. This dryness occurs because the skin barrier is weakened, making it harder to retain moisture and protect against irritants.Eczema commonly appears as red, inflamed areas on the skin. These patches may be small at first but can spread over time. In lighter skin tones, the patches appear red, while in darker skin tones, they may look brown, purple, or gray.Over time, repeated scratching can cause the skin to thicken, a condition known as lichenification. The affected areas may look leathery, scaly, or cracked, especially in chronic cases.