Conservative figures are that over 13 million Americas have atopic dermatitis from the statistics of the National Institute of Health.
The amounts paid out by insurance companies for eczema is over one billion dollars.
The NIH believes that the disease results from a combination of hereditary and environmental factors, although the exact cause for the disease remains unknown.
Because many people with atopic eczema also have allergies in the family of the respiratory system,a genetic factor is postulated.
Dust, smoke, synthetic or wool clothing fibers, household chemicals, certain toiletries, floor cleaners and pesticides can trigger a rash or make existing outbreaks worse.
A two pronged approach to this problem involves both healing existing skin eruptions and taking steps to prevent those in the future.
If foods, chemicals, pet dander and other factors can be identified then future dermatitis episodes can be contained.
Usually a cortisone cream is given to patients with eczema, though it needs to be stopped for a week after three weeks.
For infants and toddlers, it's important to follow your physician's instructions.
Cortisone lotions for eczema can thin the skin and need to be used carefully.
Antihistamines can be used to assure reliable sleep and prevent exhaustion from itching.
There are also natural products on the market and home remedies used to treat this condition.
These include oils such as flax seed oil or borage oil to help control the itching plus rehydrate the skin with moisture.
Moisturizing the skin helps with peeling, dryness and cracking.
It is critical for eczema healing and should be part of any program.
Be sure that the moisturizer does not include ingredients that your skin may be unable to tolerate.
Looking at the diet will help to identify foods and additives that are triggers of the rash symptoms.