Impetigo is normally a localised infection, the face being the most common infected area, especially the corners of the mouth and around the ears. It is highly a contagious bacterial infection and can be caused by two strains of bacteria, Staphylococcal or Streptococcal. It is capable of rapid cross infection between humans, especially in humid and warmer conditions. As Impetigo takes 3 to 10 days for the symptoms to show, it is easy for people to spread the condition as they do not realise they are infected for a period of time.

As the bacteria can be spread so easily, specially from itching the infection and passing the bacteria on via touch, many Schools and pre School nursery’s prefer for infected children to remain at home with this condition, to stop cross contamination with other children.

Impetigo can normally be successfully treated using antibiotic cream (topical antibiotics).

Impetigo also causes flu-like symptoms which may cause fatigue, weakness of muscles, headaches and vomiting.<-->

There are various types of eczema treatments including atopic eczema, contact dermatitis, cerotic eczema and seborrhoea eczema along with several others. The skin tends to become red and inflamed and these tend to itch. The inflamed red rashes can sometimes lead to opening of the skin and bleeding. Although eczema cannot be completely cured, the symptoms like itching, dryness of skin and eczema rash can be alleviated and episodes can be kept minimal.

If dryness of the skin is avoided, the other symptoms too will be reduced. Some lotions like Calamine can be used to keep the skin cool and prevent dryness of the skin. This will help in preventing itching and thereby reduce the incidence of rashes.

Harsh soaps and detergents are to be avoided as they can irritate the skin and trigger symptoms of eczema. Diet modifications are also advised by dermatologists as some foods are capable of triggering symptoms of eczema. Cotton clothing is preferred to other materials as some fabrics can cause itching and rashes.

Rash and itching are common symptoms of Eczema. Although itching is commonly seen in many other skin conditions, eczema does not normally occur without rashes being present. Although no cure exists for eczema, symptoms like rashes and itching can be reduced by following appropriate methods from your Doctor.