Lifestyle

How to know if your skin rash is eczema

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Eczema is a common disorder of your skin that causes uncomfortable symptoms, including an itchy rash.


If you’ve been feeling bothered by skin rashes or itching, could it be eczema? Once you know your diagnosis, you can figure out how to resolve your uncomfortable or unsightly symptoms.

Keep an eye out for these telltale signs that your rash may be due to eczema.

1. Thick or scaly skin

If you have eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, your skin could appear thickened or scaly. Psoriasis, another type of skin condition, can also cause scaly skin, so it’s not conclusive – but it might be a good idea to get in touch with our team for a comprehensive exam and professional diagnosis.

2. Itching that gets worse at night

Eczema rashes can itch fiercely, especially overnight. You’re most likely to see eczema rashes around your wrists or ankles, or in the interior of your elbow and knee joints.

In contrast, you’re more likely to see red psoriasis lesions in the folds of your skin. And, psoriasis rashes don’t itch nearly as badly.

3. Brown-gray or red patches

You can learn more about the potential causes of your rash by looking at the color. Eczema rashes often have a brownish-gray or red tone. If you see white pustules, though, you’re more likely to be dealing with psoriasis.

4. Cracked, raw, or bleeding skin

Severe eczema and psoriasis flare-ups can result in painful damage to the affected area. If your rash is causing your skin to crack, become raw, or bleed, seek medical care to relieve your symptoms and prevent complications like infection.

 

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