Dealing With Eczema and Psoriasis Flare-Ups

Eczema and psoriasis are two of the most severe and widespread skin conditions. Eczema is characterized by small red bumps, while psoriasis is identified by stingy, painful red patches and a scaly appearance of the skin.

Although they are separate conditions, both cause a lot of suffering and discomfort due to the unpredictability of the flare-ups. Surveys on patients diagnosed with inflammatory skin disorders found high levels of psychological distress and periods of social isolation due to flare-ups.

Eczema flare-ups

Eczema refers to a group of conditions that cause the skin to become red, itchy, and inflamed. You may even notice small blisters.

Although the cause of eczema is unknown, it’s thought that eczema is caused by an overactive response to an irritant or an allergen. Some researchers also believe eczema occurs more often in patients with a family history of asthma and severe allergies.

Allergens, stress, and weather changes can cause flareups. Chemicals found in cosmetics, detergents, fabrics, and dyes can also cause eczema flare-ups.

If you do experience an eczema flare-up, Dr. Stone may recommend a moisturizer and a topical prescription cream to relieve the inflammation.

Psoriasis flare-ups

Psoriasis is a more serious skin condition caused by an overproduction of skin cells that end up pilling up, leading to the scaly and dry skin. With psoriasis, you may also experience stinging and inflammation.

Researchers aren’t sure what causes the abnormal production of skin cells, but some suspect that a malfunction of the immune system causes psoriasis.

Risk factors for psoriasis flare-ups include smoking, stress, infections, skin injuries, and heavy alcohol consumption. To treat a flare-up, Dr. Stone may recommend lifestyle changes, topical creams, or oral medications.

Get a diagnosis for your skin disorder

When left untreated, eczema can lead to neurodermatitis and infections. Patients who ignore their psoriasis may develop infections, swelling, and, in rare cases, congestive heart failure.

The severity of the complications depends on how your condition. At the moment, there are seven types of eczema and five types of psoriasis.

It all starts with a diagnosis. Dr. Stone can help you identify what type of psoriasis or eczema you suffer from and work with you to prevent future flare-ups and treat current ones.