Eczema is a term used to describe a group of inflamed skin conditions that result in chronic itchy rashes. There are a lot of people who suffer from some form of eczema. Symptoms vary from person to person but often include dry, red, itchy patches on the skin which break out in rashes when scratched. Objects and conditions that trigger itchy eczema outbreaks may include rough or coarse materials touching the skin, excessive heat or sweating, soaps, detergents, disinfectants, fruit and meat juices, dust mites, animal saliva and danders, upper respiratory infections and stress.