Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that can debilitate your skin, self-esteem, and overall health. An estimated two million people have this disease and don't even know it. What's worse is that it can lead to more serious health complications. Learn about how to detect, treat, and cope with this disease.
Psoriasis occurs when your immune system sends signals to speed up the growth of skin cells. 80 percent of cases are plaque psoriasis, which looks like reddish, raised patches covered in silvery scales. Other psoriasis types include guttate, inverse, pustular, and erythrodermic. It's possible to have more than one type or for the type to change over time, and patches can be isolated or grow together. Psoriasis can occur anywhere on the body, especially the knees, elbows, scalp, and back, and is often uncomfortable or itchy. It's typically classified as either mild (less than three percent of your body), moderate (three to ten percent), or severe (10 percent or greater).
What Causes Psoriasis
The main cause of psoriasis appears to be genetic, though scientists have not yet isolated the exact cause. In order for it to occur, you have to have a very specific mix of genes, which are then set off by a stressful event, strep throat, cut, scratch, sunburn, certain medicines, or cold, dry weather. Doctors do know that it is not contagious.
Psoriasis Treatment Options
Psoriasis cannot be completely cured, but treatment can minimize symptoms. Mild cases are usually treated with topical ointments containing corticosteroids, salicylic acid, coal tar, and vitamins A and D. More severe cases usually involve a combination of topical treatments along with:
- Light and sun therapy, like UVB therapy, UVA therapy, and sunlight.
- Water and hydrating therapies like oatmeal or Dead Sea salt baths, and special moisturizers.
- Pulsed Dye and Excimer Laser therapies.
- Systemic medications like cyclosporine, acitretin, and methotrexate.
- Biologic drugs such as T-cell blockers, TNF-alpha blockers, and Interleukin 12/23.
The combination and pattern of these different medications and therapies can be dangerous if not followed correctly. It's critical to keep in close contact with your dermatologist before starting or ceasing any of these medications.
Managing Psoriasis
Certain lifestyle habits aggravate psoriasis, like smoking and drinking excessive alcohol. Since psoriasis increases your risk of developing diabetes and heart disease, it's especially important to monitor your weight, cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar. Psoriasis can also lead to psoriatic arthritis, so you need to let your doctor know if you experience stiffness and soreness, or if your nails become discolored or develop pitting or ridges. Psoriasis sufferers also have an increased chance of depression, so joining a support group or seeking therapy may help you cope with psoriasis.
Sources:
Aad.org: "Psoriasis" American Academy of Dermatology. Web. 2011.
http://www.aad.org/skin-conditions/dermatology-a-to-z/psoriasis/psoriasis
Psoriasis.org "Learn: About Psoriasis." National Psoriasis Foundation. Web. 2011
http://www.psoriasis.org/netcommunity/about_psoriasis
Skincarephysicians.com: "5 Medical Screenings People with Psoriasis Should Have" Psoriasis.net. Web. January 7, 2011.
http://www.skincarephysicians.com/psoriasisnet/medical_screenings.html
