You don’t often hear people talking about eczema, but having this condition is fairly common. According to a guide published by the National Eczema Association for Science and Education, nearly 35 million Americans and between 10 and 20% of all children may have eczema. Eczema is basically a rash accompanied by dry, sensitive skin that differs from person to person. In some people in can be mild or moderate while in others it can be severe. Eczema often provokes an intense itching sensation which can cause someone to scratch until the skin is raw and bleeding. This leads to more inflammation and itching, or what experts refer to as the “itch/ scratch cycle”. Eczema that presents with an aggressive itch/ scratch cycle can seriously impact a persons life. There can be scarring and even infection. And the distraction and discomfort caused by constant itching can have a very serious effect on a persons’ daily life. Unfortunately, there is no known cure for eczema, but there are several treatment options that can help people manage the disease. If you are suffering from eczema, it is important to keep your skin moist. Try applying moisturizer to your skin immediately after bathing, to help lock in the moisture. Wearing soft clothing can also help. When your eczema flares up, see if you notice something in the environment that may be triggering the reaction. And most importantly, see your doctor. He or she may recommend prescription medication. Many doctors now recommend a topical cream called Elidel. This treatment contains no steroids and can be prescribed for children as young as two years old. In clinical trials it has proven to be very effective in controlling outbreaks and irritation in people suffering from mild to moderate eczema.