Psoriasis is a skin disease that causes scales and inflammation. Skin cells normally grow in about 28 days, but this slows down to 4 days in psoriasis. This can cause skin cells to build up, resulting in thick, dark red patches with silvery scales and itching around the infection. Spots usually occur on the elbows, knees, feet, scalp, lower back, face, palms, and soles of the feet.
There is no specific treatment for psoriasis, but the focus is on managing it to minimize symptoms. Management is based on the severity and type of psoriasis.
Psoriasis treatment
The goal of psoriasis treatment is to stop the rapid growth of skin cells and remove the scales.
Treatment options include:
Local agents– These are creams/ointments that are applied directly to the skin to reduce inflammation and itching.
Systemic treatment– This usually includes immunosuppressants that reduce the immune response.
Light therapy– In combination with medication, natural/artificial UV light is used to slow cell growth.
Living with Psoriasis
Most people with psoriasis experience it as a daily problem and can become depressed, self-conscious, and fear social rejection. This can lead to psychological problems and mental stress.
Here are some tips to effectively manage psoriasis:
- Do not delay treatment when symptoms are mild, as symptoms may flare up without it.
- Psoriasis outbreaks are often triggered by external factors. Keeping a journal can help identify triggers.
- Tell your dermatologist if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Pregnancy may exacerbate symptoms and treatment options should be optimized.
- To ensure maximum benefit, take medication as directed. Never stop taking your medication without your dermatologist’s permission.
- After receiving light therapy, your symptoms may get worse before they get better.
- Avoid self-medication.
- As psoriasis begins to heal, the skin tends to become scaly and scaly and may become itchy. When itching is a problem, skin moisturizers can help.
- Being overweight increases the severity of psoriasis and reduces the effectiveness of treatment, so weight loss has a positive effect on psoriasis management.
- Smoking and alcohol play a role in the development of psoriasis and future flare-ups. So quit smoking and limit your alcohol intake.
- Follow a healthy lifestyle. Hypertension, high cholesterol and lack of exercise increase the risk of psoriasis.
Learn as much as you can about psoriasis. This will improve understanding of the disease, triggers and help manage and live with psoriasis more easily.
By Dr. Prna Gaur
Acknowledgment:
https://www.healthline.com/health/psoriasis
https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/psoriasis/default.htm
https://www.uptodate.com/contents/treatment-of-psoriasis-in-adults