The 4 Types of Psoriasis

Sunday, February 5th

While psoriasis and eczema can sometimes be mistaken for each other, there are major differences between the two skin disorders. One of the major differences between the two irritating skin disorders involves the way they manifest themselves. Both of them result in periodic skin rashes, but these skin rashes are normally located in different areas of the body depending on which skin disorder you have. Psoriasis also has different forms, whereas eczema is pretty consistent from patient to patient.

4 Types of Psoriasis

There are four major types of psoriasis that can affect patients ranging from the very mild to the extremely severe. The most severe and rarest forms of psoriasis can lead to death, but the most common form of psoriasis is normally mild and localized to certain parts of the body.

The most common type of psoriasis is plaque psoriasis. This type of psoriasis affects 90 percent of all psoriasis patients and is identified by large red, scaly patches that are most commonly found on the elbows and knees. Although most cases of this type of psoriasis are localized to certain parts of the body, plaque psoriasis can occur anywhere on the body and there are patients that have this type of psoriasis on 100 percent of their surface skin.
The second type of psoriasis is called guttate psoriasis. In this type of psoriasis, smaller lesions like the ones mentioned above are present. While these psoriasis patches are normally small, about 1 to 2 cm, they can affect large areas of the body. This type of psoriasis is typical in patients who develop lesions all over their body after an illness such as strep throat. Guttate psoriasis accounts for 10 percent of psoriasis patients.
The third type of psoriasis, erythrodermic psoriasis, although rare is extremely dangerous. In this type of psoriasis, the patient's entire skin surface is covered with psoriasis and becomes red and scaly. The skin can no longer offer any protection affecting body's ability to regulate temperature, ward off infection and retain fluids. This type of psoriasis can be life threatening if an infection occurs.
The last and rarest form of psoriasis is pustular psoriasis and is most commonly caused by steroid use or withdrawal from steroid use. This form of psoriasis can also affect all surface areas of the skin and cause problems and death just like erythrodermic psoriasis. Another form of pustular psoriasis affects only the palms and soles of the feat. Although this form of psoriasis is not deadly, it can be debilitating. Patients with this form of psoriasis can't use their hands or feet as it is a very painful condition. Patients with this localized version of pustular psoriasis may find themselves unable to walk or grasp objects.

In addition to affecting the skin, psoriasis can also affect joints. It is estimated that around 7 percent of psoriasis patients also have a form of psoriatic arthritis. This condition can also range from mild to severe depending on the patient.

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Eczema Product FAQ

What is eczema?

Eczema is an itchy inflammation of the skin. The main symptom is a rash that is usually found on the arms or behind the knees, but it can appear anywhere on the body. The skin will usually feel dry and bumpy and may appear cracked.

What causes eczema?

Eczema is usually developed in early childhood and is most common with people who have a family history of the condition. There are certain triggers that can cause eczema to flare up like certain soaps, detergents, wool, dry skin, heat, or emotional stress. Allergens like dust mites, molds, pollen, or food can also be the reason that eczema appears. It is often hard to identify the exact reason that you or your child has eczema.

Is eczema a harmful condition?

If you have eczema, it will not cause any harm to the other areas of your body unless it's left alone and eventually causes a skin infection. The main reason this is a condition people want to get rid of is because it can be extremely uncomfortable. Itching may be intense and scratching only further irritates the skin and causes sores.

How can I get rid of eczema?

Experts usually recommend avoiding soap and other irritants if you're experiencing eczema. These can dry out the skin and make the problem worse. To fully heal from eczema, you may be offered prescription medicines from a doctor, but these could be expensive. Fortunately, there are many highly-rated, safely-developed options you can find online to find fast relief from your eczema.

Are eczema products safe?

Yes! The eczema products available online are developed specifically to nourish skin and heal eczema without causing any further damage or side effects. Some formulas are made with 100% natural ingredients derived from plant sources. You're more likely to find a treatment without harsh chemicals online than if you use a prescription from a doctor.

How much do eczema products cost?

Effective eczema treatments can cost as little as $10! Depending on how severe your case is and how many areas of eczema need to be treated, you may need to purchase a few bottles of an oil or cream, but you'll find that no matter the route you go, you won't pay much. Eczema is a condition that can be treated affordably and quickly.

How are eczema products applied?

Most eczema products come in the form of a cream, serum, or ointment. They are applied directly onto the skin, covering the affected areas. You might be recommended to use some products more than once per day for maximum results, but it takes as little as 1 or 2 minutes for a treatment.

What if I try an eczema product that doesn't work for me?

If you don't have success with the eczema product you use, check to see if it came with a money-back guarantee. Many companies stand by their products with an offer to get a refund if you weren't satisfied with your results. If not, you probably didn't lose too much money since eczema products are so affordable; try a new cream or ointment in hopes that it works better.