Experiencing skin flare-ups or itchiness can be an irritating, embarrassing and sometimes even painful experience. Although the feeling of these attacks are hard to differentiate, their causes and overall impact can be very different. This is because, although they may seem like the same thing, they can be completely different conditions.
Psoriasis and eczema are two conditions that cause inflammation and itchiness of the skin. Although they are very similar in terms of symptoms, they are completely different conditions and should be treated in a separate manner.
That is why I am going to be going through all of the differences and similarities between psoriasis and eczema, to make sure that you can identify exactly which skin condition you’re suffering from.
Symptoms
This is where the conditions have the most overlaps, which is the main reason why they are so commonly confused for each other.
Both psoriasis and eczema cause itchy, red and inflamed skin that look patchy and scaly and can sometimes swell up. However, if you look closely, the inflammation is more intense in eczema and it causes the skin to become thicker.
Eczema often shows up on the parts of your body that bend, mainly joints such as elbows, behind your knees, and on your neck, wrists and ankles.
Psoriasis often shows up on your elbows, knees, scalp, face, lower back, the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. It can also show up on your fingernails and toenails , mouth, lips, eyes and ears.
Causes and Triggers
Eczema is often caused by substances that irritate your skin. These substances can include soaps, detergents, disinfectants and even some types of juice or meat produce. Common allergens such as dust, pets, pollen, mold and certain foods are also known to cause eczema.
Although many of the same things that trigger eczema can trigger psoriasis, general damage to the skin can also cause psoriasis. This includes injections, sunburns and scratches. Certain medications can also cause psoriasis such as lithium, which is commonly used to treat bipolar disorder.
Eczema is most common in babies and young children, and although it is possible to get it in adulthood it is much less likely. If it occurs during adulthood it is usually due to thyroid diseases, hormone changes or stress.
Psoriasis, on the other hand, usually occurs between the ages of 15 and 35, although it can happen at other ages as well. It is very uncommon for a baby to suffer from psoriasis.
Treatment
There are many natural treatments for both psoriasis and eczema.
Psoriasis and eczema is rare in countries that consume a diet that is typically low in fat. Research also points to a weakened immune system and a build up of toxins in the colon to the development of skin conditions.
Researchers suggest consuming large amounts of either flaxseed or primrose oil on a daily basis. This is because they provide essential fatty acids that are necessary for treatment of all skin disorders. It also aids in preventing dryness.
Consuming 50-100 milligrams of zinc daily has also been linked to less prevalence of skin conditions. This is because protein metabolism relies on zinc, and protein is required for healing of the skin. Experts suggest using zinc gluconate lozenges for optimal zinc absorption.