The transition into spring not only comes with a bout of hay fever and potential asthma attacks for some people, but also dry skin that leaves their bodies itchy and flaky. Keeping the skin moisturized and hydrated helps eliminate the temptation of running your fingernails across your skin, but many often still scratch away – and a chronic skin condition could be the culprit.

Eczema is an inflammation of the skin, particularly prevalent in children. Kids are even more likely to develop the rash – which manifests on the elbows, knees, ankles and other areas – if they have seasonal allergies, as many irritants cause the skin to flare up. According to BBC News, research revealed that up to 70 percent of children with the condition develop asthma.

The eruptions on the skin, caused by any number of allergies, end up damaging the surface, even moreso when it is scratched. A study by the Washington University School of Medicine showed that a certain substance produced in the damage – thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) – leads to asthma symptoms, as TSLP also appears in the lungs of individuals with the respiratory condition.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for eczema, but patients can manage the problem. A popular treatment is a strong hydrocortisone cream, which is a thick ointment that helps alleviate itching and inflammation. For an alternative remedy, try an oatmeal-based moisturizer, soap or bath soak – Aveeno makes several of these products and are available at your local drugstore.