Itchy, red, raw, rashy, irritated and inflamed skin are the hallmarks of eczema. Eczema can flare up and disappear, only to flare up again. Make an appointment with your dermatologist or your child’s pediatrician for an evaluation and diagnosis. He or she will take several factors into account when making a diagnosis.

The doctor will take your or your child’s medical history, perform a physical examination, and will ask questions about your or your child’s specific symptoms. If there are signs that this is an allergic reaction, your dermatologist may order a test called the patch test, which can help identify everyday irritants to which a person is allergic.