How To Tell If It Psoriasis Or Eczema

How The Dermatologists Tell The Difference Between Eczema And Psoriasis

Eczema vs. Psoriasis- What Your Skin May Be Telling You About Your Health

Some of the easiest ways to tell the difference between eczema and psoriasis are looking at the patients patterns and symptoms.

Eczema typically happens in folds and soft creases of the body, such as inside the elbows and knees. Conversely, psoriasis normally shows on the outside of surfaces, like the front of our knees, elbows and shins. Dr. Reimer can also sometimes tell the difference by looking at someones scalp. If they get a scalp rash in the back of the hair, that can be a sign that its psoriasis, not eczema.

Some other ways to tell if its eczema and not psoriasis are how long the person has had it and if they have any other allergies. Typically, people with eczema have it since childhood and have other allergic tendencies like seasonal or food allergies. Psoriasis on the other hand doesnt normally happen until adulthood.

Another difference Dr. Reimer has noted is that in someone with eczema, I find they usually respond faster to therapy, unlike psoriasis that can take longer to respond to treatment.

The last simple way to tell the difference? One of the hallmark signs of eczema is that its so itchy. If it doesnt itch, its not eczema.

What Is Inverse Psoriasis

Inverse psoriasis is an unusual form of psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease caused at least partly by genetics.

An autoimmune disease can develop when your bodys immune system views your healthy cells as foreign objects. The body begins to attack these cells as a defense against a perceived threat.

Inverse psoriasis appears in areas where skin rubs against skin, including the groin, armpits, or inner thigh regions. The National Psoriasis Foundation estimates that between

Can Eczema Become Psoriasis

Two that can sometimes appear so similar that it’s tough for doctors to tell the difference are psoriasis and eczema. Psoriasis is a condition that occurs when a person’s immune system triggers skin cells to grow faster than they usually should. Eczema can be caused by a number of factors.

Considering this, can Eczema turn into psoriasis?

Dr. Millstein says, “Psoriasis tends to cause milder itching and, in some less common types of psoriasis, a terrible burn. Eczema, on the other hand, can lead to very intense itching. When it starts to become severe, some people scratch their skin so hard that it bleeds.”

Similarly, will Eczema Cream help psoriasis? Applying moisturizing creams is also helpful because it can lessen itching, dryness, and scratching. While it won’t necessarily heal psoriasis, it can reduce the symptoms. Moderate-to-severe psoriasis can be treated with stronger medications available by prescription.

Herein, how do I know if it’s eczema or psoriasis?

Psoriasis causes well-defined, thick, red, scaly patches, commonly in areas like the elbows and knees. It is common to see psoriasis on the face, buttocks, and scalp of a child. You’ll also commonly see thick patches of skin with overlying redness. Eczema tends to appear in the crooks of the knees and the elbows.

What does psoriasis look like when it starts?

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Does Skin Tone Make A Difference In Diagnosis

“While skin color is on the list, it is less of a diagnostic factor than other more important questions we ask. Dermatologists are trained to see skin disease in terms of what they see, how it feels and presents on the skin. What part of the body is affected ? How are the skin lesions grouped together? What are their shapes? Dermatologists expect to see a whole range of colors when looking at affected areas,” according to Dr. Hayes. “We also pay attention to the overall condition of the skin, any previous treatments, signs of other infection, and any symptoms the patient is experiencing that may exist or be lacking. All of these factors are taken into consideration when making a diagnosis.”

Eczema Vs Psoriasis: Treatment

Difference Between Eczema and Psoriasis: Do You Know the ...

As with the symptoms of eczema vs psoriasis, some treatments can work with both conditions. Its still important, though, to determine the exact condition. Severe cases of either eczema or psoriasis can require different prescription medications. In addition, preventative measures may differ.

For mild to moderate eczema or psoriasis, a cream or lotion with moisturizing properties can soothe symptoms. Moisturizing creams also provide a protective barrier to prevent further drying.

Medications for severe eczema outbreaks are likely to contain ingredients with calcineurin inhibitor action. They can interact with the immune system to ease inflammation. For itching, an antihistamine may help, whether in topical or oral form. Cool compresses can also be soothing.

Sometimes severe itching becomes such a problem with eczema an infection occurs. If your doctor suspects bacteria have entered through open wounds from scratching, they may prescribe a prescription antibacterial cream.

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What Is Plaque Psoriasis

Plaque psoriasis is the most common type of psoriasis, and it is characterized by patches of raised, red patches that are covered with a build-up of silvery-white dead skin cells. Most often seen on the scalp, knees, elbows and lower back, plaque psoriasis can be itchy and painful, and the patches are prone to cracking and bleeding.3

How Is Each Treated

Eczema treatment depends on how severe it is. For mild to moderate cases, youâll use a topical corticosteroid to control inflammation, and youâll use an emollient on your skin. This type of moisturizer has an oil or cream base, not a water base, like lotion, which could dry your skin out more.

If you have moderate to severe eczema, you may need to try a medicine that affects your immune system like , methotrexate, azathioprine, or cyclosporine. If nothing else works, your doctor may prescribe a biologic drug called dupilumab . You might also try light therapy using ultraviolet light.

Psoriasis treatment is either systemic, which means it affects your entire body, or topical, which goes on your skin. If your disease is limited, or mild, you may be able to control it with topical corticosteroids and emollients.

Light therapy paired with methotrexate, cyclosporine, acretin, or a biologic is also an option for more severe cases. Or you could use just a biologic drug, which includes:

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Whats The Difference Between Psoriasis & Eczema

Nothing is more satisfying than scratching an intense itch. Likewise, nothing is more frustrating than a persistent itch that evades relief. Psoriasis and eczema are two relatively common skin disorders that cause dryness, itching, and rashes which can become red and inflamed with scratching.

Psoriasis and eczema sometimes look very similar, but its the differences that may help you and your doctor come to a diagnosis. Heres what you need to know about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for both.

What Causes Psoriasis Vs Eczema

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These two skin problems have different causes and can appear in different stages of your life. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that affects about 7.5 million Americans, according to the AAD. It happens when the skin cells go through their life cycle more quickly than normal. Typically, it takes about a month for skin cells to regenerate, but in people with psoriasis, this process happens every three to four days, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Psoriasis typically strikes when someone is between the ages of 15 and 35, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, but it can affect anyone at any age. What we do know is that psoriasis is immune-mediated, meaning there is some imbalance in the immune system, which leads to inflamed skin, dermatologist and National Psoriasis Foundation medical board member Jashin Wu, M.D., tells SELF. It tends to run in families, but there may not be straightforward patterns of inheritance. One well-known trigger is strep throat infections, but not all new cases of psoriasis result from strep throat.

Eczema is much more common than psoriasis. According to the most recent estimate available, more than 30 million Americans have some form of eczema.

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Psoriasis Vs Eczema: Complications

Any condition that impacts the skin barrier increases the chance of infection. This can happen with either psoriasis or eczema but tends to be more common in eczema. In eczema, people are scratching more, so it’s common to see the skin superficially infected, says Khetarpal.

Psoriasis can also lead to more serious complications. About 30 percent of people with psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis, a chronic, inflammatory disease of the joints, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation .

People with psoriasis are also 1.5 to 2 times more likely to develop heart disease than people without the skin condition, says the NPF. Psoriasis is not just inflammation of the skin it causes systemic inflammation and can put you at higher risk for cardiovascular conditions, such as heart attack and stroke, explains Khetarpal.

Still Unsure Time For Some Help

Most persons will have difficulty discerning the condition. The best bet is to visit a dermatologist. Dermatologists can perform different tests to diagnose the condition clearly. There are no cures for either eczema and psoriasis. Rest assured, the doctor will provide the right medication and advice for the right disease.

Identifying Eczema Vs Psoriasis On The Body

Remember: Eczema typically falls within joint folds, while psoriasis congregates just about anywhere, though most commonly on the knees, elbows, and scalp. However, if you have inverse psoriasis , Gmyrek says that you may also find psoriasis scales in groin folds, under the arms, and below the breasts. Additionally, if you notice little dents in your nails, that could also be a sign of psoriasis.

Beyond location, Dr. Camp points out the eczema is much less defined than psoriasis. So, if you notice dry patches without redness or a raised silhouette, eczema is most likely more to blame. However, remember that only a doctor can officially deem it so.

The most definitive way to distinguish the two is with a skin biopsy, although there are scenarios when even that is not conclusive to differentiate the two,Garshick says.

Learning The Differences Between Eczema And Psoriasis

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Psoriasis causes well-defined, thick, red, scaly patches, commonly in areas like the elbows and knees. It is common to see psoriasis on the face, buttocks, and scalp of a child. Youll also commonly see thick patches of skin with overlying redness.
Eczema tends to appear in the crooks of the knees and the elbows.
Children who have psoriasis tend to have mild itching. In eczema, the itching can be intense.
There are many ways for a dermatologist to tell the difference between eczema and psoriasis, including what one sees on the skin, the amount of itch, and where the disease appears on the skin.

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Eczema: Red Itchy Irritated Skin

Like psoriasis, eczema is a chronic skin condition that often causes intense itching. Scratching causes redness and inflammation of the skin, leading to a worsening of the eczema. Scratching can also cause a secondary bacterial infection. The most common type of eczema is caused by a reaction to irritants like detergents, soaps, or household cleansers. So if you have eczema, you should be careful to use mild soap and regularly moisturize your sensitive skin. Your doctor may prescribe a steroid cream or other medications if eczema is severe.

Psoriasis V Eczema Symptoms

It is usually possible for a doctor to tell the difference between eczema and psoriasis just from looking, but sometimes additional testing may be needed at the Harley Street skin clinic to confirm the diagnosis. The effects of these skin conditions can vary, so sometimes they are difficult to tell apart.

Eczema is usually very itchy. Psoriasis can itch a little, but you could also feel a stinging or burning sensation instead.
Eczema usually look like rough, red patches, which can become crusty and infected. Psoriasis can cause similar red patches too, but it can also cause silvery, scaly patches and areas of thickened and severely inflamed skin.
Eczema tends to appear in creases of skin around your joints. Psoriasis is more likely to affect your scalp, face, back, palms, and the soles of your feet. It can also appear in other places, including in your mouth or on your nails.

The symptoms of eczema often appear earlier than those of psoriasis. Most people develop eczema as babies or children, and sometimes grow out of it later in life. Psoriasis usually appears between the ages of about 15 and 35, and it is a lifelong condition.

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Treatment For Eczema And Psoriasis

Despite the difference in causes, eczema and psoriasis are typically treated similarly. Treatment may include:

Topical steroids
Medications and biologicsto suppress the immune system
Topical antibiotics
Ultraviolet light therapy

With the right diagnosis and management, you can take back control and get relief from eczema and psoriasis symptoms. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with Riviera Allergy Medical Center today.

What Are The Symptoms Of Eczema And Psoriasis

Dry Skin Treatment Seems to Work – Psoriasis or Eczema

What eczema and psoriasis look like and the exact symptoms people experience can vary from person to person. Symptoms may be fairly constant or flare-up from time-to-time. Some of the common symptoms of these conditions are listed below.

Symptoms of eczema

Symptoms of psoriasis

Itchy skin – usually mild to moderate, but can be severe or intense leading to scratching that causes broken, bleeding skin
Red rashes
More prone to skin infections
Difficulty sleeping because of other symptoms

Dry, thick and raised red patches of skin with silvery, white scale – most common symptom. On darker skin tones the plaques can look darker and thicker and be more of a purple, grey or dark brown color
Itchy patches that tend to cause a milder itch than eczema
Small, scaly salmon- to pink-colored bumps
Smooth, red patches of raw-looking skin with little or no scale. Sore and painful skin
Red, swollen skin with pus-filled bumps. Skin that is very sore and painful. Brown dots and sometimes scale can appear as the bumps dry
Burnt-looking skin, fever, chills, muscle weakness, rapid pulse and severe itch
Pitted nails, nails with white/yellow/brown discoloration, crumbling and rough nails, nails that are lifting, buildup under nails

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What Medications Are Used To Treat Psoriasis And Eczema

There are many ways to treat psoriasis and eczema. In fact, some of the same treatments are used for both conditions.

Topical treatments

Topical treatments are ones that you apply directly to the skin, like creams, gels, and ointments. Some topical treatments are available over the counter, while others need a prescription.

Corticosteroids are the most common topical treatments for both psoriasis and eczema. They reduce inflammation, which helps with redness and itching. They come in different strengths, ranging from weaker to very strong .

Other topical medication options for psoriasis include:

Calcipotriene: helps to reduce inflammation, is chemically related to vitamin D, and is available in combination with a steroid in the medication betamethasone/calcipotriene
Calcitriol: helps to slow down skin cell growth and is also related to vitamin D
Tazarotene: helps to slow down skin cell growth and is chemically similar to vitamin A
Zithranol: helps to slow down skin cell growth and is available as a cream or shampoo

These are other topical medication options for eczema:

Tacrolimus andpimecrolimus: help reduce immune system activity, while not carrying the same risk of side effects that steroids have
Eucrisa: blocks a specific protein that causes inflammation in atopic dermatitis

Stronger treatments

People with more severe eczema and psoriasis may need stronger treatments that work throughout the body. These are usually given as an oral pill or shot.

What Do Psoriasis And Eczema Look Like

Signs and symptoms of psoriasis

The most common type of psoriasis is plaque psoriasis. Plaque psoriasis appears as thick, raised, red patches on the skin that are covered with white scales made of old, dead skin cells. These plaques can be itchy and painful. They can also crack and bleed.

Psoriasis can affect any part of the skin, but it usually shows up on the knees, elbows, scalp, and lower back. Other forms of psoriasis can occur on the genitals or in your skin folds, like in your armpits . Psoriasis can also just involve the hands and feet .

Up to 35% of people with psoriasis also have nail changes related to psoriasis. This includes:

Small pits or holes in the nail
Yellow or brown nail color
Thickening of the nail
Changes to the nail shape

There are several other serious health problems that can be more likely if you have psoriasis. Some of the more common issues include:

Signs and symptoms of eczema

Eczema appears as red, dry patches of skin that are very itchy. Some people with eczema scratch these areas a lot, which can lead to bleeding and thick or leathery skin. Unlike psoriasis, eczema can become infected with bacteria or viruses.

Although eczema can affect any part of the skin, some areas are more common. In infants, eczema usually happens on the cheeks, elbows, and knees. In older children and adults, eczema usually affects the insides of the elbows, behind the knees, and the hands and wrists.

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Exploring The Treatment Options

Eczema and psoriasis are both long-term conditions that require long-term treatments. Treatment may depend on the severity of symptoms as well as the size and location of the affected area of skin. Common treatments include topical anti-inflammatories, hydrating skin creams, phototherapy, and biologic or systemic drugs to control the bodys inflammatory and immune responses.

In addition to discussing treatment options with your doctor, its important to avoid factors that may trigger or worsen your symptoms. Eczema may be worsened by wetness or allergies as well as certain cleansers, soaps, and detergents. Psoriasis flare-ups are more likely to follow injuries to the skin and can also be brought about by stress or infection.

The first step in resolving your skin issues is to talk to your doctor to receive a diagnosis. Though both eczema and psoriasis can be chronic, finding the right treatment may help relieve symptoms and reduce flare-ups.