A Guide to Understanding Psoriasis
People with psoriasis, (pronounced
suh-RY-uh-sus) have a fault in their immune system that results in an
over-production of skin cells. Their bodies don’t know how to get rid of
these extra cells, and they cause build-ups on the skin, resulting in
red scaly patches. It is important to note, however, that it is not a
contagious disease.
Plaque Psoriasis is the most common form
and affects 90% of psoriasis patients. The skin features inflamed raised
patches, usually seen on elbows, knees, the scalp, and the lower back.
These patches are typically covered with white or silver scales, which
can itch and burn.
Guttate Psoriasis is more common in children or teenagers and is often
triggered by upper respiratory infections. It features small pink to red
spots and are located on the buttocks, upper arm, thighs, and scalp
areas.
Psoriatic Arthritis is when you have psoriasis and then develop
arthritis (inflammation of the joints). The symptoms include joint pain,
stiffness, and swelling of fingers and toes.
Inverse Psoriasis is seen in areas of the body with folds, usually in
the armpits, groin, under the breasts, and around the genitals and
buttocks. These skin regions feature smooth red plaques of skin.
Erythrodermic Psoriasis is rare and very serious. The symptoms are fiery
red skin, peeling, itching, burning, an increased heart rate and
changes in body temperatures. This causes protein and fluid loss,
leading to infection, pneumonia, or congestive heart failure. If you
have these symptoms, go to a doctor or hospital immediately.
Pustular Psoriasis mostly occurs in adults. Pustules, which are
pus-filled bumps, surround red skin and form on one area of the skin. If
this skin irritation is body-wide, this is a more severe condition. You
should seek medical attention immediately.
Treatments
Topical Medication: These are creams that can be spread over the
affected areas. Usually, they include steroids or vitamin B3, which aim
to slow the growth of the excess skin cells. Some are available over the
counter such as corticosteroid. Other well known topical medicines are
calcipotriene, anthralin or tars.
Phototherapy: This is also called light therapy and employs ultraviolet
light to slow down the excessive skin cell growth. Sometimes doctors use
creams together with the light to treat psoriasis.
Oral Medications: Only prescribed for more severe psoriasis cases these
pills or biologics work to slow the growth of skin cells. Doctors are
cautious in prescribing these as they have dangerous side effects on the
kidney and liver.
Things to Avoid
Cold dry climates: It is thought that cold weather worsens symptoms
while hot and humid weather conditions are said to alleviate symptoms.
Scratching, picking or peeling skin: Be gentle with your skin by
avoiding cuts or scrapes. Patches of psoriasis often form around
injuries. Be careful when trimming your nails, as this is a common site
for psoriasis to flare.
Stress and anxiety can worsen symptoms or causes flares. You can read
tips on how to reduce stress in your life.
Smoking and alcohol cause flares. Quit
smoking and limit your daily alcohol intake.
Overexposure to sunlight: Sunburn can lead to flares of psoriasis, and
of course skin damage and skin cancer. Shorter periods of sun exposure
help relieve psoriasis
Some medications have been linked to aggravating psoriasis symptoms
including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, beta-blockers, and
lithium.
Treating Psoriasis at Home
Occlusion therapy. This therapy involves applying moisturizer to an area
of skin, and then covering it with a wrap of fabric, or plastic,
overnight. In the morning you should exfoliate. The occlusion keeps the
skin moist and allows the medicated creams to work more effectively.
It’s best to discuss this method with your doctor as certain steroids
and creams can have dire side effects.
Water Therapy & Dead Sea Salts: A 15-minute soak in a bath full of
Dead Sea salts has been shown to soothe itchy skin and remove some of
the scales. It is recommended to put a moisturizer on afterwards.
Swimming in seawater can also help as the salt in the water helps remove
dead skin and scales caused by psoriasis to be loosened. It is also
recommended that you shower and moisturize afterwards.
Cayenne Pepper Paste: Application of this paste to the skin reduces pain
and itching. Initially, you will experience a burning sensation but
with subsequent applications, the burning will diminish. Cayenne
features capsaicin, the main ingredient in peppers, which produces heat
and is often used as an ingredient in pain relief creams. It’s important
to be cautious when using this method as contact with other areas of
your skin or eyes can be painful.