Differences Between Psoriasis and Eczema

Many people often confuse the symptoms of psoriasis with those of eczema.  While some symptoms may be similar, they are in fact two completely disorders. 

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is characterized by reddish bumps that itch and flake off, causing the skin underneath to bleed.  Two common types are plaque psoriasis and guttate psoriasis. 

Plaque psoriasis is the most commonly diagnosed version.  In this, the reddish lesions form silver scales which eventually fall off.  The scales are excess skin produced when certain substances in the body become unbalanced, and cause skin cells to grow out of control. In severe cases skin cells grow at a rate up to 1,000 faster than normal growth.

Guttate psoriasis appears most often in children and young adults, showing as small, red bumps the size of drops of water on the skin. It usually appears suddenly, often several weeks after an infection, such as strep throat.

Eczema

Eczema is almost identical to psoriasis.  The main difference between the two is that in eczema, the skin does not usually flake off like it does in psoriasis.  Also, the skin may or may not be rough and form small bumps.

Eczema is generally erupts in response to environmental factors such as exposure to products containing harsh chemicals. Psoriasis, on the other hand, usually has a genetic link, and is a response to factors occurring inside of the body.

Who is suffering from these skin disorders can be a good sign of whether the affliction is eczema or psoriasis. As a general rule, psoriasis tends to strike adults most often, while eczema is more commonly seen in children.

Both psoriasis and eczema are maddening, inconvenient, irritating and embarrassing skin diseases presenting coping difficulties for both adults and children. Under any circumstances, a visit to a dermatologist is a must to address diagnosis and treatment options.