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The three main diseases that cause itching on the skin are psoriasis, eczema and dermatitis, and all three are difficult to distinguish. There are no tests that can identify, and the shape is similar. To give an accurate diagnosis, the doctor will ask for your medical history and symptoms, and do some checks and tests. If you feel disturbed by redness, itching and inflammation of the skin, it's better to immediately check it out. Once the cause is known, treatment can be done immediately.
To help doctors with a diagnosis, here are things to know about psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis.
Dermatitis
Dermatitis is a very broad term which means "inflammation of the skin". If your skin has contact with certain irritants, you can experience contact dermatitis. There are 2 main types of contact dermatitis: irritants and allergies. Irritant contact dermatitis is most common, namely when the skin is inflamed due to contact with objects such as chemicals, acids, soaps and detergents. Irritant contact dermatitis can appear well if you have had contact with an irritant or not. Often you have a hand rash accompanied by pain, itching and pain. The reaction will continue until the cause is known and you can avoid it.
Allergic contact dermatitis can occur if you have sensitivity or allergies to a substance, such as nickel or other metal materials, or certain fragrances. In allergic contact dermatitis, a rash on the skin can appear in the area touched by the substance within 24 to 48 hours. The main symptom is itching. Patients who often experience allergic contact dermatitis can do an allergy test.
Eczema
Eczema usually appears on one part of the skin that feels very itchy, red, swollen and cracked due to scratching. The rash usually appears on the face, the inside of the elbow, the back of the knee, and on the hands and feet.
The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but has been linked to genetic and environmental factors. The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis, an allergic condition that often occurs in infants and children. This condition can disappear at the age of 2 years or last until adulthood.
Certain substances can trigger eczema, so it's important to identify and avoid them. Irritants are usually in the form of household cleaners, detergents, soaps, chlorine and wool. Stress and extreme temperature changes can also cause the appearance of eczema.
To be sure, the doctor will ask for a family history of allergies and ask you to do an allergy test or blood test.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a permanent condition that causes the skin to thicken, red, and scaly. Areas that experience psoriasis are usually itchy, painful, and even hot. Psoriasis is usually located on the outside of the elbow and knee, but also often occurs on the scalp and nails.
Many things can trigger psoriasis, such as stress, cold air, skin damage, and certain medications. Unlike atopic dermatitis, psoriasis usually does not appear before the age of 10 and is more common in adults.
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
