Eczema and Psoriasis

Eczema and psoriasis is the topic area for people dealing with itchy, red, or flaking skin that keeps coming back. It gathers seven questions on triggers, contagion, and treatment. Readers in Madera come first here, though the answers hold just as well in Madera Acres, Fairmead or any other part of Madera County.

Is it catching?

This is usually the first worry, and the answers cost nothing to read. On atopic dermatitis, NIAMS says, "Atopic dermatitis is not contagious, so it cannot be spread from person to person."

• Is eczema contagious?
• Is psoriasis contagious?

What sets it off

For psoriasis, NIAMS explains, "Psoriasis is an immune-mediated disease, which means that your body’s immune system starts overacting and causing problems." The three questions below look at triggers and causes.

• What triggers eczema flares?
• What causes psoriasis?
• Can stress trigger psoriasis?

For general reading on eczema, Nemours KidsHealth on eczema and atopic dermatitis is written for teens and is a free place to begin.

Treatment and what changes over time

These two are best read first and then brought to a clinician along with your own history.

• How do dermatologists treat psoriasis?
• Does eczema go away with age?

If you want to read further, the American Academy of Dermatology page on atopic dermatitis diagnosis and treatment covers eczema, and its page on psoriasis medications and light therapies covers psoriasis.

Settle the contagion worry before the rest

Open the contagion question for your condition first. Once that worry is settled, the rest is easier to read calmly.