Psoriasis is a condition that many sufferers, particularly young people, feel embarrassed about, particularly concerning the reaction of others. However, these days, people don't have to suffer needlessly with this condition. There are many effective treatments available which can manage and clear psoriasis.
What is Psoriasis?
The word ‘psoriasis’ comes from the Greek language, meaning "itching condition". The most common type of psoriasis is plaque psoriasis. It causes a thick, patchy, red rash with silvery, white scales. It can appear anywhere but most often on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. The condition is not contagious, and is fairly common, affecting 100,000 people in Ireland. Psoriasis is more common in adults than children.
Symptoms
Psoriasis typically starts as a few red bumps. These may become larger and thicker, eventually developing scales. The patches may join together and cover large areas of the body. The rash can be itchy and uncomfortable, and it may bleed easily if rubbed or picked.
What is the Cause?
The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but experts believe that the immune system, genes, and environmental factors play central roles. Normally, old skin cells are replaced with new ones every four weeks. In people with psoriasis, the immune system triggers inflammation, causing new cells to move to the surface every three or four days. The resulting build up forms the rash. Psoriasis cannot be passed from person to person, but it does tend to run in families.
Psoriasis Triggers
People with psoriasis may find their condition flares up at certain times. Common triggers include:
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Treatment: Topicals
People with mild to moderate psoriasis may benefit from topical treatments - creams or ointments that reduce inflammation, itching, and the rate of skin cell growth. These include steroid creams, moisturisers, salicylic acid, anthralin, retinoids, calcipotriene and coal tar. Tar shampoos are helpful for psoriasis of the scalp.
Treatment: Phototherapy
For moderate to severe psoriasis, UVA/ UVB phototherapy is an effective treatment option. It can be given alone or after you take a drug that makes the skin sensitive to light. Although UVA and UVB phototherapy can help clear up psoriasis, they may have unwanted side effects.
Treatment: Natural Remedies
Soaking up the sun is a tried-and-true remedy for psoriasis. As many as 80% of people who get regular sun exposure say their symptoms improve. Other natural alternatives include aloe, tea tree oil, and oatmeal baths to soothe itchy skin. Also, stress tends to worsen psoriasis, so relaxation techniques may help control flare-ups.
More Reading on Psoriasis
www.psoriasisireland.ie
www.mypsoriasis.ie
www.imt.ie › MIMS Ireland › Clinical specials
Beating the Itch of Psoriasis
Laura Daly
UCC 2nd Year Pharmacy Student