Eczema is a descriptive term only, not a specific disease. Under eczema are grouped skin problems that have eczematous inflammation consisting of redness, scaling, and vesicles and always itch. If it doesn't itch, don't consider eczema. If left alone eczema would resolve spontaneously, however with itching comes the scratching and irritation and thus develops the disease. Acute eczema itches intensely.
Patients scratch the eruption even while sleeping.
A hot shower temporarily relieves itching because the pain produced by hot water is better tolerated than the sensation of itching, heat aggravates acute eczema. There are two stages to this problem and each has specific looking lesions. This is an inflammatory response to a substance that has come into contact with the skin. Includes acids, alkalis, solvents and detergents. Itching, stinging, or burning at the site of contact.