Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease which is characterized by scaling and inflammation. Scaling occurs when cells in the outer layer of the skin reproduce faster than normal and pile up on the skins surface. Psoriasis affects over 5 million people within the United States, primarily adults.
People with psoriasis may suffer discomfort, including pain, itching, restricted motion within their joints, and emotional distress. Psoriasis results in patches of thick, red skin covered with silvery scales in its most typical form.
These patches, which are sometimes referred to as plaques, usually itch and burn. The skin at the joints may crack as psoriasis most often occurs on the elbows, knees, lower back, scalp, face, palms, and soles of the feet. The disease may also affect the finger or toe nails and the soft tissues inside the mouth and genitalia.
There are several ways in which psoriasis may start. In most sufferers, psoriasis is inherited, typically through multiple genes. It is not always clear from whom one inherits it as inherited psoriasis usually starts in older childhood or as a young adult. In some cases, children may be stricken with psoriasis due to a virus or strep throat which triggers a brief attack of tiny spots of psoriasis.
Psoriasis flare ups are often triggered by changes in climate, stress, infections, excess alcohol, or a drug related rash and dry skin. Medications may trigger a flare up weeks to months after starting them and may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Treatment for psoriasis is based on the severity of the disease and its responsiveness to prior treatments. Topical medication is the lowest level of treatment and is applied to the skin. Treatments from each level are often combined or switched around every 12 to 24 months to reduce resistance and adverse reactions.
A treatment plan that is effective for one person may fail for another so trial and error and personal preferences often guide the course of treatment. Over time, psoriasis tends to resist its treatments. The locations, size and amount of psoriasis, prior treatments, and the specific form of the disorder are factored into treatment options. Psoriasis sufferers may also find that a medicated bath may help soothe the skin, remove scales and help to reduce itching. These baths are done by soaking for 15 minutes in oatmeal, Epsom salts or Dead Sea salts.
Studies have also shown that a healthy diet and lifestyle benefits everyone, especially those who suffer from psoriasis or eczema. There is no specific diet to follow, but there is evidence that proves that certain foods contribute to improving the skin condition. It is helpful for patients to eat only what makes them feel the most healthy.
Dietary supplements encompass vitamins, herbal products, and minerals and usually benefit the entire body. However, there is no evidence that a particular supplement is a cure for psoriasis or eczema. In fact, there is a risk that certain dietary supplements, including multivitamins, may interfere with prescription medications and patients should discuss with their before starting any new supplements.
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