Psoriasis and eczema are two skin conditions that can be difficult to cope with and cause severe physical and emotional distress. Unfortunately, both conditions are still not fully understood, and there is no single, definitive solution to them. This article will explore the similarities and differences between psoriasis and eczema and discuss potential problems and solutions related to them.
Both are chronic skin conditions, but their individual treatment is entirely different, and you need to be sure which one is affecting you before thinking about your options. Psoriasis and eczema are commonly mistaken for one another, and that’s why we’re now bringing a summary of what each one is about, their symptoms, causes, treatments, and their main differences.
What is psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic medical skin condition that affects roughly 2.5% of people in the United States. It is characterized by the formation of red and scaly patches on the skin that can be itchy and uncomfortable. While psoriasis is not contagious, it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks healthy skin cells.
The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but it is believed to be hereditary, triggered by environmental factors such as stress, skin injury, certain medications, or infections. There are many types of psoriasis, but the most common is plaque psoriasis, which appears as raised, red patches covered in a silvery-white buildup of dead skin cells.
Treatment for psoriasis varies depending on the skin lesions’ type, severity, and location. Topical medications, such as ointments, creams, and lotions, are generally the first line of treatment. Other treatments may include phototherapy, systemic medications, and biologics. The main goals of psoriasis treatment are reducing inflammation, controlling symptoms, and preventing scarring. Although psoriasis can be a complex condition to manage, there are a variety of treatments available that can help to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.