What Is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition symbolized by the growth of skin cells at a faster rate than usual. Because of this, thick red, silver, or white skin spots called plaques are formed.

Typical skin cells are reproduced after every 4 weeks. However, when affected by psoriasis, the new skin cells regenerate in days rather than in weeks. It commonly affects adults but can also affect teens and kids. The areas range in size and can be found on the elbows, hands, knees, feet, lower back, or on the scalp.

In moderate cases, the condition seems like small eruptions on the afflicted area. Nevertheless, when critical, the skin gets inflamed in this way bring about reddish colored patches with silvery skin on the top. The skin at the same time ends up being tender and rather prickling. Various other manifestations may also include swelling of joints and also the fingernails and toenails have the tendency to change color.

Sources of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is caused by the overreaction of the immune system which results in inflammation of the skin and consequent exfoliation.

It can also be genetic. Research studies have discovered that some parents in large families relay the disorder to their children. The studies are yet to reveal how this happens.

Other environmental variables could also provoke the recurrence of psoriasis specifically cold and dry weather.

Physiological variables such as stress, dry skin, and body infections might also lead to psoriasis.

Several drugs such as high blood pressure medicine and anti-inflammatory medicines equally place a person at risk of acquiring psoriasis.

Particular mental diseases could possibly also trigger a psoriasis break out or could quite possibly worsen the condition in a pre-existing condition.

Smoking, even more so in women, heightens the chance of getting psoriasis and could very well also worsen the situation.

It is nevertheless imperative to keep in mind that the affliction is not communicable and could not be spread by touching.

Taking care of and Controlling the Symptoms of Psoriasis

For most people impacted by the ailment, topical care is typically the first course of treatment.

Some accepted topical creams include:

1. Vitamin D analogs.

Vitamin D is marketed through calcipotriene as a cream, solution, or ointment. Vitamin D acts to reduce the regrowth of skin cells. It must be used in very little amounts because it makes the skin sensitive.

2. Corticosteroids.

These steroids work in hindering the buildup of cells. They are definitely essential in abating inflammation in the impacted area and are solely employed for managing mild to moderate occurrences. The primary fallout of using steroids is that it could certainly cause thinning of the skin and as time pass, psoriasis could possibly become resistant to treatment.

3. Retinoids.

These are products or solutions made from vitamin A. One of the most popular ones is Tazorac which is commonly combined with steroid treatment. Retinoids should really not be used by pregnant women.

4. Alternative topical products include coal tar, anthralin, salicylic acid, and calcineurin inhibitors.

The ointments have varied strengths depending on the manufacturer and on the affected area being treated. It is hence necessary to talk to a medical doctor before taking any medication.