Psoriasis is a skin disease that causes a rash with itchy, scaly patches, usually affecting knees, elbows, torso, and scalp. Psoriasis affects 7.5 million adults in the United States with symptoms usually starting between the ages of 15 and 25. It can affect anyone of any age and any skin color. It is not contagious.
Psoriasis is caused by an overly active immune system that speeds up the growth of skin cells. So instead of the usual process of growing and shedding over the course of a month or so like regular skin cells would, the psoriatic cells grow faster and start to pile up on the top layer of skin causing plaque patches or scales.
Unfortunately, psoriasis is chronic and there is no cure. For some people it is painful, sometimes causing blisters or pustules, which can interfere with sleep and make it difficult to concentrate when you are awake. It tends to go through cycles, flaring for weeks or months at a time, then going away for a while. People who have it are usually genetically predisposed. Triggers vary from person to person but common triggers include skin injuries (like sunburns, bug bites, and even vaccinations), stress, weather changes, and illness.
People who have psoriasis may also suffer from related health problems. One in three will suffer from psoriatic arthritis and people with psoriasis are at a greater risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Psoriasis can also be detrimental to mental and emotional health, often leading to depression and other mental health conditions.
Fortunately, there are treatments and numerous medications to help manage symptoms. Some treatments like creams, light therapy, and oral meds or injections limit skin cells from growing too quickly and help remove scales. People who suffer from psoriasis can also try some lifestyle changes to help avoid flareups.
· Try to avoid stress – Easier said than done, right? But with some practice, managing stress can turn into a no brainer. Things like meditation, exercise and talking to your healthcare provider or a mental healthcare provider can all help.
· Clothes and fabrics – There are certain types of fabrics that can help moisturize the skin and ease the symptoms of psoriasis.
· Talk about it with friends and loved ones – Psoriasis can be embarrassing and talking about it can be even more so. But turning to those who love you can really help. Knowing there are folks in your corner can be a huge stress reliever.
· Wrap up in winter – Cold dry conditions may make flareups worse so really bundle up during winter.
· Keep skin well hydrated – Dry skin triggers the scaling that can cause flareups so keep body and scalp well moisturized.
· Get a humidifier – Keeping the air in your home moist will help keep your skin moist.
· Get some sun but avoid getting burnt – Studies have shown that short bursts of UV light can help suppress symptoms of psoriasis. Just avoid being out too long because sunburns can trigger a flareup.
· Try an elimination diet – Some people are triggered by certain foods that can cause inflammation. An elimination diet can help you pinpoint if there are certain foods like dairy or gluten that may be triggering for you.
While there may be no cure for psoriasis, it is not hopeless and there are numerous strategies out there to help those who suffer find some relief. Your healthcare provider can help you figure out which medication or possibly a combination of medications and lifestyle strategies will work best for your psoriasis.
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