Is that skin rash eczema?

Diagnosing eczema is not easy, and requires a visit to a physician. The diagnosis is based the patient's recent medical history and family history, in addition to a physical examination of the skin rash.

•  Talk to your doctor if you have:

•  Very itchy skin

•  A skin rash that first appeared before the age of 5

•  A skin rash appears on different parts of your body, depending on your age (for example, the face, elbows, or knees in babies)

•  A skin rash tends to flare up, then go away for a while before coming back again

•  Personal or family history of asthma, hay fever, or eczema

•  Very dry skin

•  Very sensitive skin

These symptoms can vary from person to person and may change over time. That's why your healthcare provider may want to see you more than once. Your healthcare provider also needs to know:

•  Medicines that have been used in the past to treat your skin

•  Medicines that have been used to treat your allergies or asthma, if you have them

•  How long you have had the skin rash