::... DERMATOLOGY - Psoriasis

Psorias is a condition of the skin in which there are patches of thick red skin with silvery scales. These patches can itch or feel sore. They are often found on the elbows, knees, other parts of the legs, scalp, lower back, face, palms, and soles of the feet but can show up at other places such as fingernails, toenails, genitals, and inside the mouth.

In normal human being, upper layer of skin sheds off dead cells & at the same time new cells grow deep in the skin which slowly rise to the surface. This process takes about a month & is called as cell turnover. However, in some persons, the cells rise too fast in just a few days and start piling up on the surface before the dead cells are shed off. This condition is known as psoriasis.

There are white blood cells called as T cells. T cells help protect the body against infection and disease. However in case of psoriasis, these cells by mistake activate the cells of basal layer of the skin. As a result there is a faster generation of new cells. This results in psoriasis. Allergies, infections, dietary deficiencies or excesses, or nervous tension though are not the causes of Psoriasis but may worsen the condition.

Anyone can get psoriasis, but it occurs more often in adults. Sometimes there is a family history of psoriasis. Certain genes have been linked to the disease. Men and women get psoriasis at about the same rate.

Psoriasis does not affect the overall general health but if it spreads wide, it can certainly cause a great deal of skin discomfort and emotional embarrassment and can affect job and leisure activities. It certainly can be a nuisance, but does not alter the lifestyle. In about 10 percent of people with psoriasis, a form of arthritis ( arthur- joint, itis – swelling) called psoriatic arthritis may develop.

There are a number of drugs and treatments when used by doctor’s advise can relieve and control psoriasis, often for long periods of time. Psoriasis on its own can come and go often with long periods of remission.

• Rubbing or scratching the skin is to be avoided.
• Moderate sun exposure may help reduce psoriasis but sunburn is    to be avoided.
• Foods which flare up one’s psoriasis must be avoided.
• In obese patients weight loss may help in controlling psoriasis
• Find out ways to reduce stress and anxiety
• Do inform the doctor about current treatment taken for any other    health complaint.
• Any change in the patches must be informed to doctor.