What You Should Know About Psoriasis

Psoriasis can also cause inflammation of the joints. This is known as psoriatic arthritis. Psoriatic arthritis can affect any joint but is most common in the joints of the fingers & toes. This can result in a sausage-shaped swelling of the fingers & toes known as dactylitis. Psoriatic arthritis can also affect the hips, knees & spine. This is known as spondylitis.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease affecting the skin & joints. When it affects the skin it commonly appears as red scaly elevated patches called plaques. Psoriasis plaques frequently occur on the elbows & knees, but can affect any area of skin including the scalp & genital area. Psoriasis can vary in severity, from minor localised patches to extensive or even complete skin coverage. Fingernails & toenails are often affected. This is called psoriatic nail dystrophy.

Several factors are thought to aggravate psoriasis. These include stress & excessive alcohol consumption. Individuals with psoriasis may also suffer from depression & loss of self-esteem. As such, quality of life is an important factor in evaluating the severity of the disease. there's plenty of treatments available but because of its chronic recurrent nature psoriasis is a challenge to treat.

Psoriasis affects both sexes equally, occurs at all ages & is prevalent in 2-3% of the Western populations.

Psoriasis is driven by the immune technique, involving a type of white blood cell called a T cell. Normally, T cells help protect the body against infection & disease. T cells help generate scabs over wounds. In the case of psoriasis, T cells are put into action by mistake & become so active that they trigger other immune responses, which lead to inflammation & to fast turnover of skin cells. Epidermal cells then build up on the surface of the skin, forming itchy patches or plaques.

Specialist dermatologists generally treat psoriasis in steps based on the severity of the disease, size of the areas involved, type of psoriasis, & the patient's response to initial treatments. This is sometimes called the "1-2-3" approach. In step 1, medicines are applied to the skin (topical treatment). Step 2 uses ultraviolet light treatments (phototherapy). Step 3 involves taking medicines by mouth or injection that treat the whole immune method (called systemic therapy).

Over time, affected skin can become resistant to treatment, when topical corticosteroids are used. Also, a treatment that works very well in six person may have little effect in another. Thus, doctors often use a trial-and-error approach to find a treatment that works, & they may switch treatments periodically (for example, every 12 to 24 months) if a treatment does not work or if adverse reactions occur.

In conclusion, Psoriasis is a chronic condition. there is currently no cure. People often experience flares & remissions throughout their life. Controlling the signs & symptoms typically requires lifelong therapy.

Disclaimer - The information presented here shouldn't be interpreted as medical advice. If you or someone you know suffers from Psoriasis, plz consult your physician for the latest treatment options.