Eczema, also called contact allergy or contact dermatitis, is the term used for an over-reaction in the skin caused by direct contact with certain substances (allergens) in our environment. It can be either allergic or non-allergic in nature.
The two reactions often look the same. The only way to distinguish between the two is to perform an allergy test.
Am I allergic?
If you are allergic to a particular allergen, your immune system will react every time it is in contact with that allergen. This reaction may be due to earlier exposure (sensitisation). But the reasons for such a reaction are still largely unknown.
The reaction may occur at any time up to an hour after contact. The usual skin symptoms are itching, burning, reddening and perhaps blistering of the affected area. In some instances, however, the reaction is more severe - e.g. covering a larger portion of the body. There may also be scaling and bleeding.
If your skin reacts to an allergen, you will probably react every time you are exposed to the same or similar allergens for the rest of your life. It is important that you contact your doctor or a specialist to find out which allergen you are sensitive to, so that appropriate measures can be taken.