At Suburban Dermatology, Dr. Josephine Okwechime treats many skin conditions. Some skin conditions can be mistaken for different ones due to similar symptoms or appearance. An example is the confusion between psoriasis and eczema. If you suspect eczema or psoriasis in Kokomo, IN, Dr. Okwechime can provide a precise diagnosis and treatment.

What Is Eczema?

The skin condition results in dry, itchy, inflamed skin. It is also known as atopic dermatitis, as external irritants and allergens are the main culprits, but it can also happen due to stress. Someone may have this condition due to genetics or external environmental factors, such as pollution or seasonal allergens in the air.

What Is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin condition that appears as your immune system increases the growth of your skin cells. This rapid production in skin cells results in thick, scaly red patches on the skin. Like eczema, the skin can become very itchy. You tend to see this condition on the lower back, elbows, knees, or scalp.

How Are Both Conditions Similar and Different?

Both conditions can create chronic flare-ups that will eventually go away and come back again due to triggers. Anyone can experience extreme itching, which can cause skin damage as they scratch it. The skin becomes inflamed with either diagnosis. The main difference is also in their appearance. Your skin appears thick and scaly when you have psoriasis in Kokomo, IN. However, eczema usually causes the skin to appear reddish and inflamed. Skin can even sometimes appear to be oozing. Location matters, as eczema appears in the folds of your skin or any place where you have friction. However, psoriasis is more common on outer skin surfaces.

Regarding treatment, your dermatologist can recommend topical steroids to help relieve either condition. Neither skin condition has a cure, but your dermatologist can help you manage it by helping to get to the source of triggers and providing topical solutions to soothe the skin after flare-ups. They may advise keeping the skin as moist as possible and having a good skin care regimen. Building your immune system with a healthy lifestyle that includes proper hydration and healthy foods can also help. Focus on buying products specially made for sensitive skin. A good example is washing your clothes with detergent labeled 'hypoallergenic" and "safe for sensitive skin."

If you have psoriasis in Kokomo, IN, let Dr. Okwechime help you. Call 765-450-7314 to make an appointment at Suburban Dermatology.