
Eczema and rosacea are two common skin conditions that can be extremely uncomfortable and have a negative impact on a person's quality of life. Although there are some parallels between the two, there are also some significant distinctions.
Symptoms:
Eczema often manifests as scaly, blistered skin patches that are red, itchy, and irritated. These blotches can appear everywhere on the body, but they seem to appear more frequently on the hands, feet, and skin folds. Additionally, eczema can result in leathery, dry, or cracked skin.
Contrarily, Rosacea frequently results in redness and flushing of the face, especially the cheeks, nose, and forehead. On the areas of the face that are afflicted, rosacea can occasionally also result in tiny, red bumps or pimples with pus. The affected areas of rosacea may also experience a burning or stinging sensation.
Causes:
Eczema is a form of allergic or immune system reaction that can be brought on by a number of things, such as genetics, environmental irritants or allergens, stress, and even specific foods.
Contrarily, rosacea is assumed to result from a mix of environmental and genetic variables, including sun exposure, stress, and particular meals or drinks.
Treatment:
Eczema is often treated with a combination of skin-soothing and moisturisers, as well as topical or oral drugs to reduce inflammation and itching. To treat severe eczema, biologic drugs or phototherapy may occasionally be employed.
Rosacea is often treated by avoiding triggers including sunlight, alcohol, and spicy meals, as well as topical or oral drugs to minimise inflammation and redness.
People sometimes mix eczema and rosacea since both can produce skin redness and inflammation. Both diseases can also be brought on by stress, particular meals, or environmental factors. But the affected areas are often in distinct places, with eczema affecting numerous body parts whereas rosacea just affects the face.
Having said that, It is possible for both illnesses to affect a person at the same time. In fact, 25% of rosacea patients also had a history of atopic dermatitis(a type of eczema), according to research published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. It is crucial to keep in mind that the two illnesses are separate and require different care.
Which ailment is more disabling is determined by the severity and location of the symptoms. Eczema can be extremely painful and itchy for some people, making it difficult for them to sleep or go about their daily lives. Others may find rosacea to be more crippling, especially if it results in persistent facial redness and unpleasant pimples.
In conclusion, while eczema and rosacea have certain similarities, they are distinct skin illnesses that require different treatments. It is crucial to see a dermatologist for a precise diagnosis and a suitable treatment plan if you are exhibiting signs of either ailment.
References:
American Academy of Dermatology Association. (n.d.). Eczema: Signs and Symptoms. Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/eczema/types/common/signs-symptoms
American Academy of Dermatology Association. (n.d.). Rosacea: Signs and Symptoms. Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne-and-rosacea/rosacea#symptoms
Del Rosso, J.