All you need to know about psoriasis

An autoimmune disease, psoriasis is a condition wherein the skin cells rapidly build up on the surface. This, in turn, leads to red, flaky, patchy skin that is inflamed, itchy, and can sometimes hurt the person. While these scales typically develop on joints like elbows and knees, they may also appear on the hands, feet, neck, scalp, or face. Some uncommon areas include the nails, mouth, and the skin around the genitals.

Psoriasis is a chronic disease and has no cure, but there are certain remedies and treatment plans that help in controlling its symptoms.

Causes
It isn’t yet clear as to what causes this condition, but research suggests that there are two key factors: the immune system and genetics.

• Immune system
  Being an autoimmune disease, this condition is a result of the immune system mistakenly attacking the body. The white blood cells, also known as T cells, attack the skin cells, which results in excess skin cell production.
• Genetics
  If you have an immediate family member who has psoriasis, you are more likely to be at risk of developing this illness.

Types of psoriasis
Treatment for psoriasis depends on the type of one is suffering from. The various types of psoriasis are

• Plaque psoriasis
  Characterized by a thick red patch of skin that also often has a white or silver scaly layer, this is the most common type and is also known as psoriasis vulgaris.
• Erythrodermic psoriasis
  This rare type of psoriasis calls for immediate medical attention. It looks like severe burns have occurred on the skin and the person may need hospitalization as the body cannot maintain its ideal temperature.
• Guttate psoriasis
  This is the second most common type of psoriasis and is characterized by small red spots on the skin. This psoriasis type can lead to plaque psoriasis over time.
• Pustular psoriasis
  A severe form of psoriasis, this type is characterized by the formation of white pustules surrounded by red skin. This condition can also cause symptoms like fever, chills, muscle weakness, loss of appetite, and rapid pulses.
• Inverse psoriasis
  This type of psoriasis appears in areas like under the breasts, groins, or armpits. The skin is not patchy or scaly but often shiny and smooth because this type of psoriasis develops in skinfolds. Since there is constant skin-on-skin contact, this type of psoriasis can be extremely uncomfortable.
• Psoriatic arthritis
  This is a type of psoriasis that affects the skin and the joints. It can affect any part of the body; from the fingertips to the spine. In this type, the skin symptoms usually precede the joint aches.

Treatment options
For each type of psoriasis, the treatment and medication can vary from person to person. As triggers can also be different for each person, the approach might be varied. There are two types of approaches for treating this illness: topical and systemic.

The topical approach involves using creams and ointments that can be applied to the affected area for instant relief. This type of treatment is helpful in controlling mild to moderate psoriasis. With the systemic approach, the person has to take medication orally or intravenously. This is mostly used for those suffering from moderate to severe psoriasis and is administered in the presence of a health professional.

Light therapy is another treatment option that may work for some people. It’s a treatment method that involves exposing the affected area to ultraviolet light, which helps slow down cell growth and suppress immune activity. This therapy needs to be administered under medical supervision, and if the results are positive for the individual, they can continue this at home as well.

If you are prescribed any medication by your doctor, it’s important to ensure that you are not allergic to any ingredients in it.

Natural remedies
Apart from medication, there are certain home care remedies that individuals can try by themselves to control their symptoms. Ensure that you are not allergic to any of the ingredients used in the remedies, and if there is any skin irritation after application, wash with plain water immediately.

Simple measures that you can take at home are

• Epsom salt bathwater is a go-to remedy for many psoriasis patients. All you have to do is add some amount of it in your hot bath water and soak in it for around 15 minutes.
• Aloe vera has soothing properties. You can use its gel topically to help reduce redness and scaling of the skin.
• Apple cider vinegar (ACV) can also help in reducing scalp itchiness. You can dilute ACV with some water and use it to rinse your scalp.
• Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties, so you can either use this ingredient in your food or opt for turmeric supplements if suggested by your doctor.

Foods to eat
A general rule of thumb is to avoid any food which could trigger inflammation. Opting for foods that have anti-inflammatory properties will help control your symptoms tremendously.

Foods like olive oil, flax seeds, avocados, salmon, and tuna have high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are researched to have exceptional anti-inflammatory properties. Leafy greens like spinach, kale, fruits like berries, cherries, and oranges should also be included in the diet. It is also advised to avoid alcohol and smoking to help keep this illness manageable. Before you make any changes to your lifestyle and diet, consult your doc!

This article is for information purposes only. Always consult and seek the advice of your physician/licensed healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition or medication.