Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a very common chronic condition worldwide. It is characterized by red, scaly lesions on the body, particularly on the knees, elbows, shins and back. It may involve the scalp, nails and other body parts as well. Psoriasis may be at times associated with joint pains (psoriatic arthritis) and/or diabetes, alcoholism, obesity, hypertension and depression (the comorbidities of Psoriasis). Early detection and treatment of this condition have been associated with lesser associated conditions and better treatment outcomes. Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition which is a cause of increased immune system activity. This results in the rapid build-up of skin cells once the cells start building, causing visible silvery scaling on the skin’s surface.

Is Psoriasis contagious?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease. Psoriasis isn’t contagious, i.e. it can’t spread from one person to another.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of Psoriasis include:
  • Red, raised patches over skin
  • Silver scales on the red patches
  • Dry skin which can crack or bleed, the area around the patches may start itching
  • Pain and swelling of joints
  • thick and pitted nail

Diagnosing Psoriasis

Psoriasis can be diagnosed by one of the following methods:
  1. Physical examination
  2. Biopsy

Main causes of Psoriasis

The main causes of Psoriasis include:
  • Some medications like antihypertensive metoprolol, antimalarials, lithium, valproate, tetracyclines
  • Stress- High levels of stress may make Psoriasis even worse.
  • Alcohol and smoking- trigger psoriasis flare-ups.
  • Respiratory tract infection, Tonsillitis and HIV infection

Can Psoriasis go away?

The goal of psoriasis treatment is to reduce the symptoms and eventually may go into remission, which may even occur without treatment. Even without treatment, Psoriasis may disappear.

Best Treatment for Psoriasis

The treatment for psoriasis may include the following methods, however it is recommended to consult the dermatologist as the treatment my differ from case to case.
  • Corticosteroid creams and ointments retinoids
  • Anthralin
  • Vitamin D analogues
  • Salicylic acid
  • Moisturizers like liquid paraffin, coconut oil
  • Oral Medication like immunosuppressive agents
  • Light therapy- treatment involves using ultraviolet (UV) or natural light. This will control the rapid cell growth.

Diet recommendations for people with Psoriasis

  • Fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Polyunsaturated fats and protein-rich diet including sprouts
  • Low glycaemic diet
  • Reducing weight can help lower down the symptoms of the disease
  • Fish oil