Psoriasis; Improving Conditions is the Best Choice

Psoriasis, a common skin disease, can affect any part of the body or sometimes even the whole body. A chronic skin disorder, it appears as red patches on the skin with silvery scales.

A lot of research has gone into the real cause of the Psoriasis. But even then nothing substantial has come out. While some attribute it to excessive growth and reproduction of the skin, others say it is related to the immune system.

Various types of psoriasis like Plaque psoriasis, Nail psoriasis, Pustular psoriasis, Guttate psoriasis, Inverse psoriasis, Generalised psoriasis and Erythrodermic psoriasis are commonly found. Of these the most common one is the Plaque psoriasis in which the skin becomes red and thickened with silvery white scales. This Psoriasis appears on the chest, scalp, elbows, knees and lower back parts of the body.

Another common type of Psoriasis, which is commonly found in children and adults, is the Guttate psoriasis. Trunk, arms and legs are the parts affected. Infections, sunburn and medications can result in Pustular psoriasis in adults. This Psoriasis in which the skin becomes red, swollen and dotted with pus usually appears in the palms and soles.

The older people are prone to Generalised psoriasis, which is a rare psoriasis. Affecting wide areas, the skin would be swollen with small, white pus filled blisters. Inverse psoriasis is usually found in the genital area between the buttocks and breasts.

Erythrodermic psoriasis is the least found skin disorder but which is life threatening. In this type of Psoriasis, the skin tends to lose its protective functions, which is dangerous. Infection, stress and alcoholism are said to be the cause of Erythrodermic psoriasis.

If there is itching, reddish patches or silvery scales appearing on the skin, then it is better to consult some physician at the earliest as you may be having some kind of Psoriasis. There is nothing to worry, as treatment is available for all types of Psoriasis. Treatment usually depends on the age, gender, type of Psoriasis and other factors.

Psoriasis treatment usually begins with the topical treatment, which is considered to be the basis of all treatments. Other treatment methods like phototherapy and photo-chemotherapy are considered only if the topical treatment fails.

Topical treatment is a treatment using medicated ointments and creams. Ointments containing coal tar, carticosteroids, dithranol, retinoids and vitamins are generally used in the topical treatment. Phototherapy is the daily short exposure to sunlight. Photochemotherapy or Psoralen Plus Ultra Violet (PUVA) is a mixture of medication and Ultra Violet rays. There is the Excimer laser, which treats only the affected parts. Oral medication is not prescribed, as it is known to have many side effects. Even then Retinoids, Azathioprine, Hydrozyme, Methotrexate and Cyclosporine are the common medicines that are prescribed for psoriasis.

Once Psoriasis is detected, it is better to consult the doctor. Though completely treating psoriasis can be a challenge, one can at least improve the conditions. Daily baths remove the scalp and the inflamed skin. Epsom salt, bath oils and oatmeal can be added to the water used for bathing. Always take care that only mild soaps are used and moisturiser is applied soon after the bath.

A person having Psoriasis can be emotionally stressful and also feel dejected from the society. It is a real challenge that a person with psoriasis faces in society. But the only thing that can be done is to improve the conditions.