Psoriasis

What is it?

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that causes the rapid build up of skin cells, leading to thick, red, scaly patches that can be itchy and sometimes painful. It is a non-contagious skin condition  that can affect various parts of the body, including the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors.

What can I do?

1. Moisturise Regularly: Keep your skin well-hydrated by using moisturisers that are recommended by your doctor... This helps reduce dryness, itching, and scaling associated with psoriasis.
2. Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid potential triggers that may worsen your psoriasis. Common triggers include stress, smoking, alcohol, certain medications, skin injuries, and infections.
3. Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and manage stress effectively. These lifestyle changes can help improve your overall health and potentially reduce psoriasis flare-ups.
4. Sunlight Exposure: Controlled exposure to sunlight can help improve psoriasis symptoms. However, avoid excessive sun exposure and always use sunscreen to protect your skin from UV damage.
5. Follow Treatment Plans: Adhere to the treatment regimen prescribed by your healthcare provider. Consistency is key to managing psoriasis effectively.

Common Medical Treatments

1. Topical Treatments: These include corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues, retinoids, calcineurin inhibitors, and salicylic acid, which are applied directly to the skin to reduce inflammation and slow down skin cell turnover.
2. Phototherapy: Also known as light therapy, phototherapy involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet (UV) light under medical supervision. This treatment can help slow the growth of affected skin cells.
3. Medications: For moderate to severe cases, medications that work throughout the body may be prescribed. These include oral or injected medications such as methotrexate, cyclosporine, and biologics.
4. Biologic Treatments: Biologics are a newer class of drugs that target specific parts of the immune system. These medications are typically used for moderate to severe psoriasis and include drugs like adalimumab, etanercept, and infliximab.
5. Combination Therapy: Often, a combination of treatments is used to manage psoriasis effectively. This approach can enhance treatment efficacy and reduce potential side effects.

When to Consult Your Doctor

It is important to consult your doctor if you experience:

• Persistent red, scaly patches on your skin that do not improve with over-the-counter treatments.
• Severe itching, pain, or discomfort associated with skin lesions.
• Joint pain or stiffness, which may indicate psoriatic arthritis.
• Symptoms of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or pus, in areas affected by psoriasis.
• Significant impact on your quality of life or emotional well-being due to psoriasis symptoms.

Remember:

Psoriasis is a chronic condition that can be managed effectively with the right combination of treatments and lifestyle adjustments. Regular consultation with your healthcare provider, adherence to prescribed treatments, and proactive management of triggers can help control symptoms and improve your quality of life. Understanding your condition and seeking support from healthcare professionals and support groups can also provide valuable assistance in managing psoriasis.