7 Symptoms of Psoriasis and Eczema to Look Out For

Psoriasis and eczema are two common skin conditions that can cause discomfort, irritation, and embarrassing skin issues. Though they are different conditions, both have symptoms that can be quite similar. It can be quite challenging to live with either of these ailments, which is why it is important to get the help needed to manage these conditions. With that in mind, here are seven symptoms of psoriasis and eczema to look out for.

1. Red and Itchy Patches

The most common symptom of both psoriasis and eczema is the presence of red and itchy patches on the skin. These patches can appear on different parts of the body such as the scalp, knees, elbows, face, or hands. The patches may appear raised, scaly, or even blistered. It is important to resist the urge to scratch as this can exacerbate the condition.

2. Dry Skin

Psoriasis and eczema can also cause the skin to become dry and dehydrated. This can lead to flaky skin, cracking, and even bleeding in severe cases. The dry skin is usually accompanied by the red and itchy patches mentioned previously.

3. Flare-Ups

Both psoriasis and eczema can come in waves, varying in intensity and frequency. One might experience a sudden flare-up, in which symptoms worsen for a period before returning to baseline. These flare-ups can be caused by numerous factors such as stress, infection, or weather changes.

4. Swelling

Swelling is another common symptom of psoriasis and eczema. Swelling may occur in response to trauma or injury to the skin, so it’s important to take care when handling and treating areas of the body affected by these conditions.

5. Burning Sensations

Burning sensations may occur in areas affected by psoriasis or eczema, particularly in cases where the skin has become irritated or inflamed. This symptom can be quite distressing and cause the person affected to seek out immediate relief.

6. Joint Pain

For individuals with psoriasis, there may be joint pain and swelling in addition to other visible skin symptoms. A condition known as psoriatic arthritis can cause joint damage that needs to be managed separately from the skin symptoms.

7. Discoloration

Ongoing and persistent psoriasis or eczema can cause discoloration of the skin. This may occur as darker patches or marks on the skin, which can be distressing aesthetically and emotionally.

Understanding the symptoms of psoriasis and eczema is important for early treatment and management. It’s important to seek the advice of a board-certified dermatologist if you are experiencing any of these symptoms or have any concerns. While these conditions can cause discomfort, it is possible to manage them and live a comfortable and confident life with the support of medical professionals and proper self-care. If you need help, schedule a consultation with one of our providers.