Psoriasis Vs Eczema: Understanding the Difference
Psoriasis and eczema are two common skin conditions that have affected millions of people. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes dry, itchy and thick patches of skin. Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, causes red, itchy and dry rashes on the skin. Even though both psoriasis and eczema have similar symptoms, there are ways to tell them apart, listed below are a few:
1. How do they look?
Eczema
Eczema makes the skin itchy, red and inflamed. Some people can also develop scaly or swollen patches. Some may also see leathery and rough patches. Many times, people with eczema scratch their itchy skin, leading to more inflammation and dry skin. Eczema is more common amongst children although adults can too develop it if they’ve never had it as a child.
Psoriasis
Similar to eczema, psoriasis can also cause red patches which are scaly, silvery and raised. The skin in psoriasis will be more thick and inflamed as compared to eczema. In severe cases, psoriasis can cause the skin to crack and bleed. Getting homeopathy treatment for psoriasis can help reduce it. Psoriasis affects adults more than children.
2. Where do they show up?
Eczema
Eczema appears on parts of the body that bend, such as behind the knees or inner elbows. It can also be on the neck, wrist and ankles. Sometimes, babies can get it on their cheeks, scalp, chest, back, arms and legs.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis often shows up on the knees, elbows, lower back, palms of the hand and soles of the feet, scalp and face. Some people may also have psoriasis on their fingernails, toenails, mouth, lips, eyelids, ears and skin folds.
3. How are they triggered?
Eczema
As eczema results from things that irritate your skin, it can be triggered by:
- Detergents and soaps
- Disinfectants
- Juices from meat or produce
Eczema can also be triggered by things that cause allergies, such as:
- Dust
- Pollen
- Pets
- Mold
- Certain foods
Along with these, eczema can also be set off by infections, sweating, heat, humidity, stress and hormonal changes. Even though eczema cannot be prevented, reducing stress, avoiding allergies and getting a proper treatment plan can help reduce the symptoms and control the condition. You can also use an air purifier at home, prevent injuries and avoid scented products to reduce the symptoms.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis shares some of these triggers such as stress and infections. But psoriasis can also flare up by:
- Sunburns
- Scratches
- Vaccinations
Psoriasis can also be triggered because of some medications, such as drugs for malaria, etc.
Even though psoriasis cannot be prevented, the flare-ups and complications can be reduced by avoiding the common irritants, reducing stress, eating a healthy diet and protecting the skin from injuries and infection. Over time, it gets easier to recognize your triggers and avoid them.
To get the proper treatment, it is important to understand the difference between psoriasis and eczema. Homeopathic treatments are very effective in curing both of these diseases. You can get an offline or online homeopathy consultation from good homeopathy doctors in Mumbai or anywhere else and get a treatment plan that will work best for you based on your particular symptoms and medical history.
