Healthy Topics

Eczema & Psoriasis … At-a-Glance

Eczema

Symptoms

• Reddish rash
• Cracked, scaly or peeling skin that may bleed or ooze
• Mild to severe itching
• A “pulled tight” feeling to skin

Cause

• May be hereditary
• May be associated with respiratory allergies or asthma
• Could result from emotional upset or contact with harsh detergents and rough fabrics

Action

• See your doctor if severe eczema does not respond to home care or if itching is not satisfactorily controlled by over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams

Home Care

• Apply cold, wet compresses or buy over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams to relieve itch
• Use plain calamine lotion to stop the oozing
• Avoid hot water, especially at bath time
• Use moisturizing cream or lotion on non-weeping eczema to keep area from drying or cracking
• Avoid harsh soaps

Psoriasis

Symptoms

• Dry, red patches of skin with a top layer of thick, silvery scales or small, scaly spots
• Cracked skin
• Itching
• Some bleeding or joint pain may accompany this rash

Cause

• Hereditary

Action

• See your doctor if large areas of your skin are infected

Home Care

• Psoriasis cannot be cured
• Exposure to sunlight (without burning) and use of over-the-counter shampoos, oils and other preparations can minimize symptoms
• Avoid picking or scratching scales
• Reduce stress and anxiety, which may worsen condition