PSORIASIS

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic, incurable skin disease that shows up as heavy flaking of the skin and red, inflamed patches.

Psoriasis can affect different parts of the body, and how it shows up is very individual. The most commonly affected parts of the body are:

1. Joints
2. Scalp
3. Back and chest
4. Nails
5. Legs and arms

In some people, psoriasis can severely affect the joints, causing inflammation and pain known as psoriatic arthritis. Psoriatic arthritis usually affects the joints of the fingers and toes, but it can affect other joints too.

Psoriasis affects people regardless of age, sex or race, but some factors increase the risk of the disease:

Genetics

Psoriasis can run in families, and if your relatives have the disease, your risk of developing psoriasis is higher.

Age

Psoriasis can occur at any age, but it is most common in adults. There are two main age peaks for psoriasis onset: the first is usually between 15 and 35 years of age, and the second between 50 and 60.

Immune system disorders

People with autoimmune diseases or a weakened immune system (for example, people with HIV or those taking immunosuppressants) are more prone to developing psoriasis.

Infections

Some infections, especially streptococcal throat infections, can trigger psoriasis or worsen its symptoms.

It should be stressed that psoriasis is a non-infectious disease, so it is not contagious.

Genetic causes of psoriasis

Genetics is one of the main factors involved in the development of psoriasis. Although a direct link between a specific gene and psoriasis is not yet clear, research suggests that several genes may increase the risk of psoriasis.

Psoriasis is now known to be a polygenic disease, which means that not one but many genes affect the onset and development of the disease.

A genetic predisposition to psoriasis means that if members of your family have the disease, your risk of developing it also increases. However, it should be stressed that genetics is not the deciding factor. Environmental factors such as stress, infections, skin injuries or certain medicines can also play a role in the onset and development of psoriasis. So even if you have a genetic predisposition, it does not mean you will necessarily develop the disease. Genetics is only one of the factors that influence the development of psoriasis.

What causes psoriasis?

Scientists often point to the immune system as one of the drivers of psoriasis. Triggers include:

• Metabolic disorders
• Viral and bacterial infections (for example, ear infections, tonsillitis, gastrointestinal infections, HIV)
• Skin irritation (sunburn, tattoos and injuries)
• Long-term emotional strain (stress, bullying)
• Diet
• Climate
• Excess weight
• Smoking

Psoriasis is much more common among smokers than non-smokers. Smoking ten cigarettes a day can triple the risk of the disease.

Diagnosis

To diagnose psoriasis correctly, a dermatologist may ask several questions, such as:

1. Are you taking any medicines?
2. What symptoms do you have?
3. How long have they lasted?
4. Does the itching also occur at night?
5. Do other family members have psoriasis?

This is usually followed by a thorough examination and assessment of the patient's skin. In most cases, a dermatologist can diagnose psoriasis visually based on the typical skin changes present.

If other family members have psoriasis, the symptoms may indicate the same disease. However, if there is no genetic predisposition and the visual diagnosis is unclear, a biopsy is needed. During this test, the doctor determines whether the upper layer of the skin is inflamed.

When psoriasis symptoms are mild, additional tests are needed. This is necessary to rule out other possible skin conditions, including:

• Fungal skin infections
• Ichthyosis
  
• Eczema
• Early stages of syphilis
• Lichen planus

People with joint problems need blood tests and X-rays.

Symptoms

Psoriasis symptoms vary from person to person, but here are some of the most common symptoms:

1. Red, inflamed patches;
2. Flaking;
3. Dry, cracked skin;
4. Nail changes;
5. Joint pain and swelling.

Psoriasis symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the patient and the form of the disease. Symptoms may also come and go over time. If you suspect you have psoriasis, it is important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Psoriasis in babies

Psoriasis is quite rare in babies. In such cases, the parents' genetic predisposition should be considered first. However, infections, skin irritation or allergies can also cause the characteristic symptoms. Care is needed, as psoriasis in babies often goes undiagnosed because the symptoms resemble nappy rash or atopic dermatitis.

Psoriasis in children

Psoriasis often appears in children and teenagers after tonsillitis. Red skin lesions all over the body cause severe, painful itching. Medicines are also known to influence the onset of psoriasis.

Treatment

Psoriasis treatment can vary depending on the severity of the disease, the symptoms, the patient's age and individual response to treatment. The main goal is to reduce inflammation and symptoms and improve quality of life. The positive effects of treatment are felt only after a longer period, so it is very important not to stop psoriasis treatment without consulting a doctor.

The choice of cream or ointment for psoriasis depends primarily on the severity of the symptoms and the active ingredients of the products. Cooling gels and lotions can also be used.

What else helps with psoriasis?

Suggested approaches:

• Skin care (regular moisturising)
• Medicines (antihistamines)
• Diet (avoid spicy seasonings, alcohol and foods containing histamine, such as chocolate, cheese and nuts)
• Cooling the skin (compresses, breathable clothing, cool indoor air)
• Acupuncture (may reduce itching)
• Gloves while sleeping
• Nail care (keep nails short to avoid injuring the skin by scratching)

Ultraviolet radiation (phototherapy) is a recommended complementary treatment. UV rays suppress immune processes and counteract excessive cell growth. As a result, symptoms are significantly reduced in summer.

Prevention

At present, it is impossible to prevent psoriasis. However, people with the disease can identify the factors that make their symptoms worse. Avoiding stress is just one way to help prevent flare-ups.

Our recommendation. For daily care of very dry, flaky and itchy skin, choose Eubos Urea 10% body lotion. It can be used as a complementary body care product alongside treatment prescribed by your doctor.

Prepared from online sources.