Psoriasis

Psoriasis: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments of Psoriasis

The common skin malady of psoriasis can leave scaly, itchy red patches on your skin that can be sometimes painful. Psoriasis can also make us more self-conscious and anxious when it comes to social interaction. This chronic disease may come and go over time, but there is no cure for psoriasis. So, what exactly is psoriasis and what causes it? Here at HPFY, we can give you some important information as to how to deal with this problem so you can improve your quality of life.

Causes & Symptoms of Psoriasis

Okay, we have all heard about psoriasis, but what is it? Basically, psoriasis is a condition in which our skin cells rapidly age and there is a buildup of cells on the surface of our skin. It is these extra skin cells that create the scaling and red patches or rashes that can be itchy and, in some cases, painful. Some common symptoms of psoriasis are:

• Red patches of scaly skin
• Spots of scaling
• Dry or cracked skin (may include bleeding)
• Itching
• Burning or sore patches of skin

Often these symptoms will flare up for days to weeks or up to a month and then may recede or go into complete remission. These patches of psoriasis can range from a few spots to covering large areas of skin. Of course, there is not just one type of psoriasis and they can include:

1. Plaque Psoriasis: This type of psoriasis is the most common. It causes dry, red, or raised patches of skin that can be itchy or even painful.
2. Nail Psoriasis: Some psoriasis types target different body parts and that is the case with nail psoriasis. It affects fingernails/toenails. This promotes abnormal nail growth and can even cause the nail to crumble in severe cases.
3. Guttate Psoriasis: Triggered by a bacterial infection (i.e. strep throat) and targeting young adults and children, guttate psoriasis causes small, water drop-shaped lesions on your upper body. The scaling is not as pronounced, but still present.
4. Inverse Psoriasis: Inverse psoriasis causes red, inflamed skin in the armpits, groin, genital or under breast area. It is thought that fungal infections cause this type of psoriasis and can be a one-time episode or recurring event.

Unfortunately, there is no cure yet for any of these types of psoriasis. It is through lifestyle changes and treatment that we can manage the symptoms of this skin disorder.

How to treat Psoriasis?

For anyone that suffers from psoriasis, relief from the everyday symptoms can be a godsend. Treatment for psoriasis can help alleviate the physical effects of scaly, itchy skin, as well as help, improve self-confidence and quality of life. Unfortunately, there is no permanent cure for psoriasis, but some treatments for psoriasis are:

• Medications: Your doctor may prescribe medication such as immunosuppressants to suppress your immune system to reduce inflammation. Biologics and topical retinoids also can be prescribed to reduce inflammation.
• Therapy: One, out-of-the-box thinking, therapy is light therapy. This uses special UV light bulbs to slow the production of skin cells in order to reduce scaling.
• Nutrition: What we eat can help reduce or minimize the effects of psoriasis. Carnivores should look to lean meat to get their daily fix. You should also try to eat fruits, vegetables and whole grains as mainstays of your diet.
• Topical treatments: For mild-to-moderate psoriasis, these skin creams and lotions can provide relief from psoriasis. For those with more severe psoriasis, the need to include corticosteroids to skin lotion may be necessary. Vitamin D analogues can help suppress the excess formation of skin cells.

Understanding the causes and symptoms of psoriasis can help you see proper treatment. If you suspect you have psoriasis, check with your doctor or dermatologist to explore a therapy that works with you. With the proper plan in place, there is no need to feel self-conscious. Get out there and reclaim your life!!

 

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