Psoriasis is a skin disorder that is characterized by one having a scaly and dry skin. It is known to be caused by rapid growth of skin cells. This condition can occur as a result of faulty signals in one’s immune system which trigger the growth of new skin cells in a matter of days instead of weeks. The body is unable to shed off excess skin cells, causing them to accumulate in one’s skin surface and form lesions. Psoriasis is usually not a contagious condition and affects both children and adults. Sometimes those who have psoriasis suffer some form of discrimination and isolation.
What causes psoriasis?
As mentioned earlier, psoriasis is not a contagious condition and therefore you cannot catch it in whatever form of contact you have with someone who has it. Psoriasis is rather a complex condition that has even baffled scientists such that studies are still ongoing about it. But it is well known that one’s genes and immune system do play a key role in psoriasis development. When a person gets psoriasis, white blood cells known as T cells mistakenly make their skin cells to grow too fast. As a result, new skin cells get formed in days, instead of weeks. This disorder is usually inherited from those with psoriasis-causing genes.
However, scientific studies have also shown that people who inherit genes causing psoriasis may not necessarily develop the condition. In order for one to get psoriasis, it appears that one must have a ‘perfect’ mixture of genes and get exposed to the triggers of the condition. Common factors that may trigger the problem include skin injury, strep throat, and a traumatic event in one’s life. Many people have attested to the fact that their condition was caused by some of the above triggers. And psoriasis triggers are usually not similar from one person to the other.
What are the signs and symptoms of psoriasis?
Psoriasis causes lesions on the skin and they are different in appearance depending on the kind of psoriasis. There are 5 main types-plaque, inverse, pustular, guttate, and erythrodermic. Plaque is the main type of psoriasis. It affects about 4 in 5 people and it is also referred to as psoriasis vulgaris. It causes red, white or silvery patches of scaly, thick skin. These patches are known as plaques or plax and can occur on any part of the skin. Plaques are commonly found on the knees, lower back, elbows, and the scalp.
Your nails can also be affected by psoriasis. About half of those who suffer from psoriasis notice some changes in their fingernails or toenails or both. You should contact a dermatologist if you notice any changes in your nails or develop joint pains. The problem should be treated early so as to avoid further complications.
How is psoriasis treated?
Although there is not yet a cure for psoriasis, the condition can be treated so that one gets relief from the tormenting disease.
Psoriasis can be treated by prescription medications, but it is better treated with natural remedies at home which have no side effects. But natural remedies should only be used after consultation with a doctor. There are so many natural remedies for psoriasis that you should find out in order to manage the problem.
Making certain dietary changes as well as lifestyle changes like giving up smoking and alcohol can also help in the management of psoriasis.
One should also avoid things that can aggravate the condition, for example scratches, injury to the skin, sun burns, and tight clothing.
Certain medications, soaps etc can cause skin irritation and worsen psoriasis, so they should be avoided. And the infected areas must always be kept clean so as to avoid getting more infections.
Although psoriasis has no known cure and can reappear later, it is no justification for despair. Accepting the condition can help ease your psychological and emotional pain. Get all the support you can from people close to you i.e. your family and close friends so that you don’t feel alone. It is also important to gather as much information as you can about the disease so that you properly manage it.
