She Strengthens

Understanding Atopic Dermatitis and Psoriasis: What You Need to Know

The Skin Struggle is Real

Atopic dermatitis and psoriasis are two common chronic skin conditions that can turn your skin into an itchy, scaling, and crusting nightmare. While they share similar symptoms, telling them apart can be tricky. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Spotting the Difference

Atopic dermatitis typically causes thickened, scaling, dry, reddish or purplish skin that thrives in the creases of your arms and legs. Psoriasis, on the other hand, can have similar symptoms, but the red patches might also have an overlying silvery scale. Psoriasis is more likely to show up on your elbows or knees, and more severe types can cause nail lifting or swollen or tender joints.

Symptoms Galore

Atopic dermatitis symptoms can range from mild to severe, including scaling skin, sensitive skin, skin infections, thickened skin, extremely itchy skin, crusty patches of skin, deep lines in the palms, and discolored, swollen skin. Psoriasis symptoms vary depending on the type, but common symptoms include nail pitting, very sore skin, pus-filled bumps, rough, crumbling nails, morning joint stiffness, tender or swollen joints, smooth, raw red patches, small reddish bumps on the skin, and discoloration of one or more nails.

Treatment Options Abound

Taking great care of your skin is crucial for managing atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Avoid harsh chemicals and use soothing, nonirritating ingredients. Over-the-counter (OTC) meds like oral antihistamines or topical corticosteroid creams can ease itching and reduce inflammation. If OTC methods don’t work, your doctor might prescribe phototherapy, biologic drugs, or retinoids. Psoriasis can also be treated with prescription meds like cyclosporine or apremilast.

Causes Still Unknown

Researchers are still trying to figure out the exact causes of atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Both conditions seem to have a genetic link and might be triggered by stress. Some scientists think that psoriasis is an autoimmune condition, but we still don’t know for sure.

Managing Your Symptoms

While there’s currently no cure for atopic dermatitis or psoriasis, there are many treatment options available to help manage symptoms. For atopic dermatitis, you might be able to manage moderate symptoms at home with a solid skin care regimen, UV light therapy, topical calcineurin inhibitors, oral antihistamines, OTC or prescription corticosteroid creams, antibacterial creams, and Dupilumab. For psoriasis, treatments depend on the type and severity of symptoms, but may include biologic medications, topical or oral retinoids, topical steroid creams, OTC corticosteroid creams, coal tar soaps or shampoos, phototherapy or light therapy, and vitamin D creams.

When to See a Doctor

Atopic dermatitis and psoriasis are chronic conditions that require ongoing management. If your skin is affecting your daily life, it’s time to see a doctor. Let them know if you have open wounds, oozing sores, inflamed joints, scaling skin, or pus-filled bumps. They can prescribe medications and suggest treatments to help you manage your symptoms.

The Bottom Line

Atopic dermatitis and psoriasis may be chronic skin conditions, but with the right care and attention, you can manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. By understanding the differences between these two conditions and seeking medical attention when needed, you can take control of your skin health.