Causes of eczema

The specific cause of eczema remains unknown, but it is believed to develop due to a combination of hereditary and environmental factors.

Children are more likely to develop eczema if a parent has had it or another atopic disease. If both parents have an atopic disease, the chances increase further.

The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) report that approximately half of children who develop atopic dermatitis go on to develop one of the other atopic diseases.

Environmental factors are also known to bring out the symptoms of eczema.45 These include:

Irritants: soaps, detergents, shampoos, disinfectants, juices from fresh fruits, meats or vegetables

Allergens: dust mites, pets, pollens, mold, dandruff

Microbes: bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, viruses, certain fungi

Hot and cold temperatures: hot weather, high and low humidity, perspiration from exercise

Foods: dairy products, eggs, nuts and seeds, soy products, wheat

Stress: it is not a cause of eczema but can make symptoms worse

Hormones: women can experience worsening of eczema symptoms at times when their hormone levels are changing, for example during pregnancy and at certain points in their menstrual cycle.