๐ฉบ Eczema & Psoriasis: Causes, Triggers & Best Treatments
Eczema and psoriasis are two common chronic skin conditions that affect millions of Australians. While both conditions cause inflammation, irritation, and discomfort, they have distinct triggers and treatment options. If your eczema or psoriasis is severe enough to impact your daily life, you may also need to learn how to get a doctor's certificate online to validate time off for treatment and recovery. ๐ฅ๐ป
๐ Understanding Eczema & Psoriasis
๐ Common Symptoms of Eczema & Psoriasis
โ Eczema Symptoms:
Intense Itching: The hallmark of eczema, often worsening at night. ๐๏ธ
Red or Brownish Patches: Commonly found on hands, feet, ankles, wrists, neck, and face. ๐จ
Dry, Cracked, or Scaly Skin: Can lead to open sores or infections. ๐ฉน
Fluid-Filled Blisters: These may ooze or crust over. ๐ฆ
Thickened, Leathery Skin: Due to prolonged scratching. ๐งโโ๏ธ
โ Psoriasis Symptoms:
Red Patches of Skin Covered with Silvery Scales: Often appearing on elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. ๐ด
Itching or Burning Sensation: Can be mild to severe. ๐ฅ
Dry, Cracked Skin that May Bleed: Due to excessive scaling. ๐
Thickened or Ridged Nails: Common in nail psoriasis. ๐
Stiff and Swollen Joints: In cases of psoriatic arthritis. ๐ฆด
๐น What is Eczema?
Eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes red, itchy, and dry skin. It often develops in childhood and may persist into adulthood.
๐น What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that speeds up skin cell turnover, resulting in thick, scaly, red patches on the skin. Unlike eczema, psoriasis is more commonly associated with immune system dysfunction and genetic factors.
๐จ Common Triggers for Eczema & Psoriasis
โ Eczema Triggers:
Allergens (pollen, dust mites, pet dander) ๐ฟ
Harsh soaps & detergents ๐งด
Cold, dry weather โ๏ธ
Stress & anxiety ๐
Certain foods (dairy, nuts, gluten) ๐ฅ๐ฐ
โ Psoriasis Triggers:
Stress & emotional distress ๐
Infections (strep throat, colds, flu) ๐ฆ
Skin injuries (cuts, burns, insect bites) ๐ฉน
Smoking & alcohol ๐ฌ๐ท
Certain medications (beta-blockers, lithium) ๐
๐ Best Treatments for Eczema & Psoriasis
๐ฉน Eczema Treatments
Topical Steroids & Creams: Reduce inflammation and itching. ๐ฑ
Moisturizers: Keep skin hydrated and prevent flare-ups. ๐ง
Antihistamines: Help control itchiness and allergic reactions. ๐คง
Lifestyle Changes: Avoid triggers, use gentle skincare, and manage stress. ๐งโโ๏ธ
Wet Wrap Therapy: Applying a damp layer over moisturizer to enhance absorption and soothe skin. ๐
Prescription Medications: In severe cases, doctors may prescribe immunosuppressants such as cyclosporine or biologic treatments like dupilumab. ๐
Dietary Adjustments: Identifying and eliminating food triggers that may worsen symptoms. ๐ฅ
Natural Remedies: Some people find relief using coconut oil, aloe vera, or colloidal oatmeal baths. ๐
Topical Steroids & Creams: Reduce inflammation and itching. ๐ฑ
Moisturizers: Keep skin hydrated and prevent flare-ups. ๐ง
Antihistamines: Help control itchiness and allergic reactions. ๐คง
Lifestyle Changes: Avoid triggers, use gentle skincare, and manage stress. ๐งโโ๏ธ
๐ฉน Psoriasis Treatments
Topical Corticosteroids & Vitamin D Creams: Slow skin cell growth and reduce scaling. ๐ฌ
Phototherapy (Light Therapy): Uses UV light to manage symptoms. โ๏ธ
Biologic Medications: Target immune system responses. ๐
Lifestyle Adjustments: Healthy diet, avoiding alcohol, and reducing stress. ๐
Coal Tar & Salicylic Acid Treatments: Helps reduce scaling and inflammation. ๐ฅ
Systemic Medications: In severe cases, drugs like methotrexate or cyclosporine may be prescribed to suppress the immune response. ๐
Hydrotherapy & Dead Sea Salts: Some patients find relief through soaking in mineral-rich water. ๐
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oil, these can help reduce inflammation associated with psoriasis. ๐
Topical Corticosteroids & Vitamin D Creams: Slow skin cell growth and reduce scaling. ๐ฌ
Phototherapy (Light Therapy): Uses UV light to manage symptoms. โ๏ธ
Biologic Medications: Target immune system responses. ๐
Lifestyle Adjustments: Healthy diet, avoiding alcohol, and reducing stress. ๐
๐ How to Get a Doctorโs Certificate Online for Eczema or Psoriasis
If your eczema or psoriasis requires time off from work or school for medical appointments or treatment, you may need a doctorโs certificate. The easiest way to get one is through an online consultation with a certified doctor.
At DoctorsNote.com.au, you can: 1๏ธโฃ Book a virtual consultation with a licensed doctor.
2๏ธโฃ Discuss your skin condition & treatment needs.
3๏ธโฃ Receive a valid online doctorโs certificate via email for work or school. ๐ง๐ฅ
๐ Final Thoughts
Eczema and psoriasis can significantly impact quality of life, but with the right treatment, skincare routine, and professional guidance, symptoms can be managed effectively. If you need time off for medical appointments or treatment, knowing how to get a doctorโs certificate online can make the process easier.
For a fast & secure online doctorโs certificate, visit DoctorsNote.com.au today! ๐
Related reading : Skin Treatments and Actinic Keratosis
DR.R.Singh