Category: Dermatitis

For millions of Australians, the battle against itchy, inflamed skin is a daily reality. One of its causes is rated in the top five causes of non-fatal disease burden. Three common culprits behind this struggle are eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis. 

These terms are often interchangeable in general discussion, but they are completely different & represent distinct skin conditions with varying characteristics and management strategies. If you’re experiencing itchy and inflamed skin, you must understand the differences to seek appropriate treatment and improve your quality of life. 

Eczema vs psoriasis vs dermatitis: the differences

Eczema

Appearance

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, typically manifests as red, dry, itchy patches of skin with fine scaling. Blisters, oozing, and crusting can occur in severe cases.

The skin may also appear discoloured, with shades varying from pink to brown, depending on your skin tone.

Sensation

Eczema is notorious for its intense itching, often worse at night and with scratching. The sensation can be relentless and even disrupt sleep.

Location

It typically affects the inner elbows, back of the knees, face, and neck. However, it can appear on any part of the body. In infants, eczema tends to affect the cheeks and scalp.

Triggers

Numerous factors can trigger eczema flares, including stress, dry air, harsh soaps, allergies, and certain fabrics. Identifying individual triggers is crucial for effective management.

Onset

Most commonly, eczema develops in infanthood between ages 0 and 6 months. According to a study, more than half of surveys indicated that the condition was diagnosed around that age. Many children outgrow the condition, but for 52% of eczema sufferers, it continues into adulthood.

Treatment options

Treatment for eczema involves a combination of moisturising creams to hydrate the skin, topical steroids to reduce inflammation during flare-ups, and avoiding known triggers. In severe cases, doctors may prescribe systemic treatments or immunosuppressant medications. They may also recommend phototherapy.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is multi-system disease that can affect the joints, heart, lung and bowels and is not often well understood. 

Appearance

Psoriasis presents as thick, red, raised patches of skin covered with silvery-white scales. These plaques are distinctive and can cover large areas of the body.

Sensation

Psoriasis typically causes less intense itching than eczema, but burning, stinging, and tenderness are common. If psoriasis affects joints, it can lead to painful cracking and bleeding of the skin.

Location

Common areas for psoriasis include the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back, but it can develop anywhere, including the nails and joints.

Triggers

Hormones, stress, infections, physical injury to the skin, certain medications, and weather changes can trigger psoriasis flares. But unlike eczema, psoriasis is more closely linked to the immune system, and these triggers can prompt an autoimmune response.

Onset

Psoriasis can start at any age, with two common onset periods: one in late adolescence and another in middle age. This is especially true for hormone-caused psoriasis because it’s associated with puberty and menopause.

Treatment options

The severity and extent of the condition can vary significantly from person to person, so treatment of psoriasis also varies. It ranges from topical creams and ointments to help reduce inflammation and slow skin cell growth to phototherapy. For more severe cases, systemic medications and biologic drugs target specific parts of the immune system.

Dermatitis

Dermatitis encompasses a broad category of skin conditions, each with diverse presentations. So, the specific appearance, sensation, location, and triggers can vary depending on the type of dermatitis. Here are some of them:

• Atopic dermatitis. This is another term for eczema, which we covered in detail above.
• Contact dermatitis. This skin problem presents as a red, swollen rash. It may also blister, ooze, or develop crusts. The sensation is often intense itching or burning, especially when the skin comes into contact with allergens or irritants. Common locations include areas directly exposed to the irritant or allergen, such as hands, face, neck, or legs. Triggers range from allergic reactions to substances like nickel, latex, or certain cosmetics to irritants such as soaps, detergents, or chemicals. Contact dermatitis typically occurs soon after exposure to the trigger.
• Seborrheic dermatitis. It’s characterised by oily, scaly patches on the skin, often appearing with a yellowish or reddish tinge. It can be itchy and slightly sore. This usually occurs on the scalp, face (particularly around the nose and eyebrows), ears, and chest. The exact causes are unclear, but stress, hormonal changes, cold and dry weather, and yeast living on the skin are potential triggers. It is common in infants (as cradle cap) and adults.

Managing dermatitis involves avoiding known triggers, using emollients to moisten the skin, and applying topical steroids during flare-ups. In some cases, antihistamines are prescribed to control itching.

Have your skin checked at ENRICH

If you’re worried you have one of these skin conditions and need help with diagnosis or treatment, contact us.

If you’re wondering, “Why is my skin suddenly itching all over?” You’re not alone. Itchy skin is a condition we’ve all faced at some point. It can range from a mild annoyance to a significant discomfort that disrupts our daily lives. While it’s usually nothing serious, sometimes it can be a sign of a bigger health issue.

Itchy skin, or ‘pruritus’, can be caused by many different things – from the weather to allergies or even more complex health problems. Understanding what’s behind that itch is vital to finding the right way to treat it.

Reasons your skin is itchy

Dermatitis

Dermatitis is a general term for skin inflammation. It can cause an itchy rash or red, swollen skin. There are different types, like atopic dermatitis (eczema), contact dermatitis (from touching irritants), and seborrheic dermatitis (often affects the scalp). 

Each type has its triggers, such as hot/cold temperatures, irritants and microbes, but all result in itchy skin. 

Dry skin

Dry skin, known as xerosis, happens when your skin lacks moisture. It’s pervasive in areas with low humidity or during the colder winter months when the air is drier both outside and inside due to heating systems. This dry air can strip moisture from your skin, leading to dehydration and itching. 

Cold temperatures also contribute by reducing the skin’s natural oil production, which is essential for retaining moisture and protecting the skin barrier. 

The tendency to take hot showers or baths in winter can further remove natural oils from the skin, worsening the dryness.

Allergic reactions

Allergies are another common cause of itchy skin. Various allergens like food, medications, latex, nickel, or certain chemicals in cosmetics or personal care products trigger it. 

When your body encounters an allergen, it can react by releasing histamines, leading to symptoms like inflammation and itchy skin.

Environmental factors

The environment has a significant impact on skin health. In Australia, where the climate and natural surroundings are quite diverse, several environmental factors can cause skin irritation and itchiness.

Intense UV rays, for example, can dry out our skin, making it itchy and irritated. Insect bites are another common culprit, especially in areas near water or bush. 

Australia is also home to various plants that can cause skin reactions, like poison ivy. Contact with it can result in an itchy rash.

Nerve-related issues

Sometimes, itching sensations can be caused by issues with the nervous system, a condition known as neuropathic itch. This type of itch happens when there’s a problem with the nerves themselves. Nerve irritations, shingles, or peripheral neuropathy due to diabetes are common causes of neuropathic itch.

Internal diseases

Certain internal diseases like liver disease, kidney failure, or thyroid problems can cause itching. This itching occurs due to the way these diseases affect the body’s normal processes and lead to a buildup of toxins.

For instance, when the liver is not functioning properly, it struggles to filter out toxins from the blood. These toxins can accumulate in the body and cause symptoms, including itching.

Psychological factors

When you’re dealing with stress or mental health issues like anxiety or depression, these can show up in physical ways, including causing your skin to itch. This is because stress can alert your body to sensations, turning even a tiny itch into something much more noticeable. Sometimes, you might start scratching without even realising it, especially if you’re nervous or anxious, which can worsen the itchiness.

Depression can also affect your skin. It might change how you care for yourself, including your skincare routine, leading to dry and itchy skin. Plus, some medicines for treating depression and anxiety can have side effects that include making your skin itch.

Nutrient deficiency

When you’re not getting enough of certain nutrients, like vitamins, iron, and fatty acids, it can lead to itchiness. Your skin needs a range of nutrients to stay healthy, and a deficiency in these can affect your skin’s health.

For example, Vitamin A helps repair skin tissue, and a lack of it can lead to dry, itchy skin, while the lack of adequate iron in your diet affects your skin’s oxygen supply, leading to poor health. Fatty acids, especially omega-3 and omega-6, play a vital role in maintaining the health of your skin’s lipid barrier. This barrier helps retain moisture and protect your skin from irritants. A deficiency in these fatty acids can lead to dry skin prone to itching.

How to identify the possible cause of sudden itchiness

It can be uncomfortable and puzzling when you suddenly start experiencing itchiness. Here are some steps you can take to determine what might be causing your itchy skin so you can get the proper treatment:

Observe the area

First, take a close look at the itchy area. Is the skin dry, red, or swollen? Are there any rashes, bumps, or blisters? The appearance of the skin can give clues about the cause. For example, a red, bumpy rash might suggest an allergic reaction, while dry, flaky skin could indicate xerosis (dry skin).

Consider recent changes

Think about any recent changes in your life that could affect your skin. Have you started using new skincare products, detergents, or cosmetics? Have you been exposed to new environments or substances, like chlorine in a swimming pool or a new sunscreen brand? Sometimes, the cause of itchiness can be traced back to a recent change in your environment or products you use.

Review timing and triggers

Try to recall when the itchiness started and what you were doing then. Did it begin after you ate a certain food, used a particular product, or visited a specific place? Also, consider if the itchiness worsens at certain times of the day or in particular situations, like after a shower or during the night. Nocturnal pruritus can be caused by either the natural change in our circadian rhythm or bed bugs!

Monitor other symptoms

Symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or digestive issues can be relevant. For example, if you’re also feeling exhausted, it could be a sign of an internal condition like a thyroid problem or iron deficiency.

Perform a patch test

If you suspect a particular product is causing the itchiness, you can do a patch test. Apply a small amount of the product to a discreet area of your skin and wait 24 to 48 hours. If the skin becomes itchy or irritated in that spot, you might be allergic or sensitive to the product. Otherwise, your itchy skin is caused by something else.

Keep a skin diary

Record what you eat, the products you use, your activities, and when you experience itchiness. Over time, this record can help you and your healthcare provider identify patterns or triggers for your skin reactions.

When should I be worried about itchy skin?

Persistent itchiness

If your itchiness is constant and doesn’t go away with over-the-counter treatments or home remedies, seeing a doctor is a good idea. Persistent itchiness, especially if it’s severe and interferes with your daily activities or sleep, could indicate an underlying health issue like eczema, psoriasis, or internal diseases.

Accompanying severe symptoms

If your itchy skin is accompanied by more severe symptoms, such as significant swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately. These could be signs of a severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, which is a medical emergency. Other severe symptoms to watch out for include rapid heartbeat, dizziness, or a feeling of tightness in the chest.

Signs of infection

If you’ve been scratching the itchy area and notice signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or tenderness, or if the area starts to ooze pus, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. An infection may require treatment with antibiotics or other medications.

How do I stop uncontrollable itching all over my body?

Dealing with uncontrollable itching all over your body can be extremely uncomfortable and frustrating. Here are some strategies for immediate relief and long-term solutions:

For immediate relief

Cold compresses

Applying a damp cloth to itchy areas can provide quick relief. The cold helps reduce inflammation and numbs the skin, which can lessen the itchy sensation.

Over-the-counter creams and ointments

Various creams and ointments are available to help soothe itchy skin. Look for products containing hydrocortisone, calamine, or menthol. 

Antihistamines

If your itchiness is due to an allergic reaction, over-the-counter antihistamines can help. They work by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical in the body that contributes to allergic symptoms, including itching.

Have an oatmeal bath

Oatmeal contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These compounds help soothe and reduce redness and inflammation in the skin, alleviating itchiness. It also has a high lipid and protein content, which can help to nourish and moisturise the skin. This is particularly beneficial for dry, itchy skin, as it helps to restore the skin’s natural barrier, preventing further moisture loss and protecting against irritants.

To create an oatmeal bath, add 1 cup of finely ground whole oats to lukewarm bathwater and soak for 15-20 minutes. Moisturise immediately after bathing.

Don’t wear tight clothes, and avoid itchy fabrics

Tight clothing can irritate your skin and make itching worse. Wear loose, comfortable clothes made from soft fabrics like cotton. Avoid wool and synthetic fabrics, as they can be more irritating to the skin.

Long-term solutions

Consult a specialist

If your itching persists or you suspect it’s a symptom of an underlying condition, it’s important to see a healthcare professional. A dermatologist or allergist can help diagnose the cause of your itchiness and recommend appropriate treatments.

Lifestyle changes

Altering your daily habits can be effective in controlling and preventing itchy skin. Changes include ensuring you drink plenty of water, using a humidifier to maintain moisture levels in your environment, opting for shorter, cooler showers or baths, and choosing gentle, unscented soaps and laundry detergents.

Prescription medications

When remedies available without a prescription don’t bring relief, it might be time to consult your doctor for stronger medication options. Depending on what’s causing your itchiness, they might suggest prescription-strength creams, oral drugs, or other specific treatments.

Itchy skin? Contact us

If you’re struggling with itchy skin that just won’t go away, contact us for advice and tailored solutions.