Psoriasis and eczema may look alike, but healthcare providers can distinguish the two conditions by their individual characteristics. Eczema may cause itching in skin folds (crooks) of your body while psoriasis typically does not.
Psoriasis occurs when your immune system prompts too many new skin cells to form too rapidly, creating thick, silvery or white patches on the surface of the skin that look silvery or white in color. It affects people of all ages.
The Difference Between Psoriasis and Eczema
Symptoms
Psoriasis and eczema may look alike, but they’re actually two distinct conditions with distinct symptoms.
There are certain telltale signs to help doctors differentiate them – such as thick red patches of skin with clearly-defined white scales that bleed when scratched; typically seen on knees, elbows, scalps, arms or feet but could appear anywhere on your body.
If your red patches don’t respond to over-the-counter treatments, see either your primary care provider or dermatologist immediately. They can determine whether this is an outbreak of eczema or psoriasis and recommend appropriate remedies; in some instances they may even refer you to a rheumatologist; for further testing to make an accurate diagnosis, take samples from rash/nails for testing purposes as needed.
Diagnosis
Your physician can diagnose psoriasis by inspecting its symptoms, asking about your health history and family tree, taking a skin sample for microscopic analysis, or running blood tests to identify other conditions such as hay fever or asthma which could trigger it.
Researchers consider psoriasis an autoimmune disease, wherein your immune system becomes overactive and attacks healthy skin cells, leading to rapid skin cell turnover rates and thick, scaly patches appearing on your surface skin.
Over time these patches may become thick and start bleeding or cracking up; leading to cracked or dry patches on cracked or dry areas on cracked and dry areas leading to cracked dry skin with bleeding or scabbing if left untreated; further symptoms could include painful joints (psoriatic arthritis).
Eczema is an allergic condition caused by environmental elements and allergies. It can appear on hands, feet, elbows and knees and form dark and scaly patches which often ooze. Furthermore, it can be itchy.
Treatment
Eruptions of eczema may be caused by sensitivities to fragrance, nickel, wool and certain foods; stress; dry weather or cold temperatures; persistent scratching which causes bloody lesions on the skin; while those suffering with psoriasis experience similar symptoms but with silvery plaques that lessen itching while itching dandruff (known as Psoriasis Craniformis) and thickened, ridged nails.
Psoriasis may not be curable, but certain medications can reduce or even eradicate its plaques.
These include topical corticosteroids such as topical corticosteroids ointments and lotions; tar products which reduce itching and inflammation; systemic immune-modulating agents that control immune response; as well as systemic medications which manage immune responses.
Your doctor can recommend the most suitable treatments for you based on family history of Psoriasis as well as conducting a biopsy procedure.
Prevention
While psoriasis cannot be cured, you can reduce flare-ups by avoiding triggers. That includes staying out of direct sunlight if you experience itchy red spots that do not respond to OTC medications and refraining from scratching too often as this increases symptoms further.
Noting the situations or experiences that cause your eczema or psoriasis to flare can help identify triggers, according to Dr. Frank Wang, a board certified dermatologist at University of Michigan Health.
A patch test may also help detect any allergies responsible, along with diet changes which could include eliminating foods known to exacerbate symptoms; some patients with psoriasis have reported improvements after following an anti-inflammatory diet; however there are a variety of creams, ointments, light therapy therapies as well as oral/injectable medicines which can also treat their symptoms.
What Are the Most Effective Treatments for Psoriasis and Eczema
Psoriasis Treatment Options
Topical Therapy
One of the primary treatments for mild to moderate psoriasis is topical therapy. Corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues, retinoids, calcineurin inhibitors, salicylic acid, coal tar, and anthralin are commonly prescribed medications to manage symptoms.
Phototherapy
Light therapy, utilizing ultraviolet or UVB light, is a recommended treatment option for psoriasis. It can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.
Oral or Injected Medications
For severe cases of psoriasis, oral or injected medications may be prescribed. Biologics and systemic treatments work to reduce inflammation and can provide significant relief.
Eczema Treatment Options
Topical Therapy
Topical steroids are widely used to treat both psoriasis and eczema. Additionally, medications that broadly suppress the immune system can be effective for both conditions. However, newer agents that target the specific underlying causes of these inflammatory disorders are more specific for either psoriasis or eczema.
Phototherapy
Similar to psoriasis treatment, phototherapy can also be recommended for managing eczema. It involves exposure to light, which can help alleviate symptoms.
Oral or Injected Medications
Moderate-to-severe cases of eczema may be treated with medications such as methotrexate, cyclosporine, azathioprine, or dupilumab. These medications help suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation.
How to Prevent Flare-Ups of Psoriasis and Eczema
To prevent flare-ups of psoriasis and eczema, it’s essential to follow these preventive measures:
Keep Skin Moisturized
Regularly moisturize the skin to prevent dryness and minimize itching and irritation, which can trigger flare-ups.
Proper Skin Care
Avoid picking at patches or scales, as it can worsen symptoms. Take care when trimming nails to avoid cuts that may exacerbate the condition. Limit bath and shower time and avoid hot water.
Avoid Dry, Cold Weather
Extra precautions should be taken in dry, cold weather as it can aggravate psoriasis and eczema. Protect the skin and ensure it stays moisturized during these seasons.
Use a Humidifier
In dry climates or environments, using a humidifier can add moisture to the air, preventing dry skin and reducing the risk of flare-ups.
Identify and Avoid Triggers
Identify triggers such as stress, certain medications, infections, or skin injuries that may lead to flare-ups. Minimize exposure to these triggers to prevent worsening of symptoms.
Sun Exposure
While no direct link between diet and psoriasis or eczema has been established, some experts recommend limited sun exposure. However, it is crucial to use sunscreen and avoid excessive sunlight exposure to prevent flare-ups.
Consult a Dermatologist
Individuals should consult with a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plan, and advice on preventing flare-ups. Every person’s condition is unique, and a dermatologist can provide tailored recommendations.
