Psoriasis vs Eczema

Psoriasis and eczema are very common skin-related diseases, they affect a large proportion of people worldwide. Looking to their symptoms and characteristics, they are almost similar and hardly to be differentiated. Many people easily confused between psoriasis and eczema when they just look at the skin appearance. Even though the diseases are almost identical in terms of appearance, in fact they are significantly different when it comes to causes and treatment approaches.

Psoriasis vs Eczema: The Similarities

Before going further to differentiate between psoriasis and eczema, it is better if we first analyze their similarities. By doing this, we can specifically identify both diseases and differentiate them from other skin diseases. In other words, this can aid us to be more focus on both diseases.

Patches - Rough red patches are common manifestations of both diseases which indicate affected skin areas.
Flaking - Patients of both conditions commonly will notice that flaky, dry and rough areas grow on some areas on the surface of their skin.
Rashes - Rashes are the most common characteristics of both psoriasis and eczema. These are usually develop together with reddish and irritating outbreaks on the skin surface.

Psoriasis vs Eczema: The Differences

Even though psoriasis and eczema are almost identical in terms of their signs and symptoms, but still there are differences between them.

1. Silvery appearance
Physically, due to imbalance of chemicals in the body, psoriasis usually occur as silver-colored skin that can easily peeled and form into flakes. In contrast, eczema does not necessarily have silvery appearance even though it may have the same crusty or scal patches as seen in psoriasis.

2. Underlying causes
Researchers believed that psoriasis develops due to disturbances in immune system which lead to the abnormal development of lymphocytes, a type of immune system cells. This is not the case in eczema, which is said to be triggered by allergic reactions due to the presence of allergens such as dust, dirts, and chemicals.

3. Age of patients
Psoriasis and eczema can be differentiated in terms of the prevalence rate among age of patients. Psoriasis patients are usually among adults, while eczema is commonly observed among children. However, this statement does not deny the fact that both conditions can be experienced at any age.

Psoriasis vs Eczema: Cure for Psoriasis and Eczema

Due to the fact that psoriasis and eczema have different underlying causes, it is apprehended if both conditions require different medical treatment approaches. For psoriasis, the itchiness can be relieved by using topical creams that can be purchased as over-the-counter products. Besides, together with photo-therapy or exposure to UVB light, psoriasis patients are encouraged to regularly apply moisturizers especially those containing natural ingredients such as aloe vera and jojoba. In severe psoriasis conditions, the use of oral retinoid like soriatane may be needed to improve the quality of life of the patients.

On the other hand, treatments for eczema are usually with anti-histamines, anti-inflammatory creams and some home remedies that are often oil-based.

This article is intended to provide only surface facts regarding psoriasis and eczema for you. It does not intended to replace any medical professional advices. If you suspect you may have either of the conditions, it is better if you first consult doctors to confirmly verify the diagnosis so that the correct treatment approaches can be selected.

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