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Overview
Eczema and psoriasis are two of the most common skin conditions treated by dermatologists. Because they have a similar appearance, it often requires a dermatologist to differentiate between them. There is no cure for either of these chronic conditions, making them difficult to clear up. And while they have to be managed rather than cured, available treatments have proven effective in keeping them under control.
Recognizing Eczema
Also known as dermatitis, eczema appears as patches of dry, scaly skin. The lesions often look like small blisters. Skin affected by eczema can sometimes ooze or leak and feel extremely itchy. Eczema is commonly found on the scalp, inside the arms, behind the knees and on the hands or feet. Lesions that appear repeatedly on the ankles are usually eczema.
Recognizing Psoriasis
Psoriasis is characterized by flaky, dry, raised patches of red skin often capped with a white coating. The most common type is plaque psoriasis, which occurs on the scalp, the lower back, the front of knees and the back of elbows. Not contagious and rarely fatal, psoriasis also appears on the hands and feet and can affect nail development. The frequent itching associated with the condition often leads to scratching and bleeding.
Origins
While eczema often begins in childhood, it can continue into adulthood. Skin itching and scaling can worsen from exposure to environmental influences like chemicals or consumption of particular types of food. Avoiding foods that trigger a reaction usually eases the condition.
Psoriasis usually does not appear until adulthood and is caused by genetic or internal factors rather than food allergies. While psoriasis is most common among those aged 20 to 40, family history is a factor in 30 percent of patients.
Treating Eczema
Dermatologists usually determine treatment of eczema by its extent and severity. Many patients find a combination of therapies most effective. Along with topical medications, lifestyle changes might be prescribed. In more severe cases, stronger medications and phototherapy are recommended.
Since stress can have a negative impact on eczema, stress management techniques are often advised. Foods shown to contribute to flare-ups include coffee, dairy products, wheat and nuts. Doctors often suggest using unscented soaps or avoiding soaps that can dry out the skin. Antihistamines might be used to treat itching.
Treating Psoriasis
Recommended treatments for psoriasis include moisturizers and steroid creams or ointments. Since most patients benefit from exposure to sunlight, phototherapy is sometimes combined with topical medications. Because beta blockers used to treat high blood pressure can aggravate psoriasis, patients should notify their dermatologists of all medications they take.
As with eczema, some psoriasis treatments are more effective than others. Determining what works best for individual patients is often a matter of trial and error.
