Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes cells to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin. This excess skin cell buildup results in the formation of thick, silvery scales and red, itchy, and sometimes painful patches or plaques on the skin. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder, which means that it occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, leading to the rapid growth of new skin cells.
Psoriasis is a chronic condition, and while there is no cure, various treatments, including topical creams, phototherapy, and systemic medications, can help manage its symptoms and improve the quality of life for individuals with psoriasis. It’s important for people with psoriasis to work with healthcare professionals to develop a treatment plan tailored to their specific needs.
What Are the Symptoms of Psoriasis?
Red, Raise Patches (Plaques): Plaque psoriasis, the most common form, is characterize by the development of raise, red patches on the skin.Once, These patches are covere with a silvery-white or grayish scale.
Itchiness: Psoriasis can be itchy, and the itching can range from mild to severe. Scratching the affecte areas may worsen the condition.
Scaling: The plaques often have a buildup of silvery or white scales that can flake off, particularly when you scratch or rub them.
Dry Skin: Psoriasis can cause the skin in the affected areas to become dry and may crack, leading to discomfort.
Inflammation: Thus, The skin around the plaques can become red and inflame.
Pain or Discomfort: In some cases, psoriasis can cause pain or a burning sensation, especially if the affect skin cracks or splits.
Nail Changes: Some individuals with psoriasis may experience changes in their nails. such as pitting (small dents or depressions), discoloration, or thickening. Since, This is known as psoriatic nail involvement.
Joint Symptoms: In some cases, psoriasis can affect the joints, leading to a condition call psoriatic arthritis. Thus, Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.
What Are the Treatment for Psoriasis?
Topical Treatments:
- Emollients and moisturizers: These help keep the skin hydrated and reduce dryness and scaling.
- Topical corticosteroids: These anti-inflammatory creams or ointments can reduce redness, itching, and inflammation.
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors: Medications like tacrolimus and pimecrolimus can be used on sensitive areas of the skin. Thus, such as the face and genitals.
- Coal tar preparations: These can help slow down the excessive skin cell growth.
- Salicylic acid: It can be use to help remove scale.
Phototherapy (Light Therapy):
- Ultraviolet B (UVB) therapy: Controlle exposure to UVB light can help slow skin cell growth and reduce inflammation.
- Psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA) therapy: This involves a combination of a light-sensitizing medication (psoralen) and UVA light exposure.
Systemic Medications:
- These medications are prescribe for more severe cases of psoriasis or when other treatments have not been effective. They work throughout the body to control the immune response.
- Methotrexate
- Cyclosporine
- Apremilast
- Acitretin
- Biologics