Eczema and Psoriasis: Understanding and Managing Chronic Skin Conditions

Eczema and psoriasis are two troublesome, uncomfortable skin conditions your dermatologist can treat. Let’s look at the differences and similarities between these two conditions and how they are treated and managed.

What You Need To Know About Eczema and Psoriasis

Eczema is a condition also known as atopic dermatitis. It can be caused by immune system or genetic issues, or exposure to toxic or abrasive chemicals. Psoriasis is also caused by immune system factors, resulting in skin cells being produced too fast.

Eczema appears as reddish-brown patches on your face, scalp, chest, knees, elbows, hands, feet, and ankles. The excess skin cell production of psoriasis causes scaly patches to appear. Psoriasis is categorized in three levels of severity from mild to severe, depending on how much of the body is affected.

Both eczema and psoriasis can cause severe itching which can worsen at night. You may also experience red, raw, cracked skin areas.

To help manage eczema and psoriasis symptoms yourself, you can try:

• Taking over-the-counter antihistamine medications
• Applying topical anti-itch medications like calamine lotion
• Applying moisturizer when you are in the shower
• Using cool, wet bandages and dressings
• Taking warm oatmeal, Aveeno, or baking soda baths
• Placing a humidifier in your home to reduce allergens
• Wearing loose, cool, breathable, cotton clothing

The best solution is to visit your dermatologist for professional treatment if you think you might have eczema or psoriasis. For eczema, your dermatologist may recommend:

• Prescription topical creams to control itching
• Prescription-strength oral medications to relieve itching
• Antibiotics if your symptoms are caused by a skin infection
• Oral or injectable anti-inflammatory medications
• Corticosteroid dressings to reduce skin inflammation
• Ultraviolet or natural light therapy to eliminate patches

For psoriasis, your dermatologist may recommend:

• Over-the-counter or prescription moisturizing creams, shampoos, or bath treatments
• Topical steroid medications to reduce itching and slow down skin cell growth
• Light or laser therapy to eliminate eczema and psoriasis patches
• Prescription-strength oral medications including cyclosporine and methotrexate to reduce skin cell production
• Biologic drugs to suppress the immune system and reduce psoriasis breakouts

Want to Know More about Eczema and Psoriasis Management and Treatment?

To find out more about eczema and psoriasis signs, symptoms, management, and treatment, talk with an expert. Call our dermatologist today.