Even a light touch may cause itching. Many people who have severe eczema are quite sensitive to scratchy fabrics, especially wool. Eczema often becomes worse in the winter, when indoor air is very dry. Your health care provider will examine the area of skin that is affected. He or she will ask about your history and your family's history of rashes and other problems such as allergy or asthma.
More severe eczema can be more difficult and frustrating to treat.
Medicines are used to help control and prevent the itching. It's also important to keep the skin well lubricated. The itching of severe eczema can usually be prevented with oral antihistamine medications. Many antihistamines cause drowsiness, so you may want to take the medicine only at bedtime. Some antihistamines are available that do not cause drowsiness.