Apart from standard treatments for psoriasis, we have a range of newly approved agents to treat psoriasis. Our patients are highly satisfied with our care.
Psoriasis is an unsightly skin disorder that causes red, itchy scaly patches on the skin. It can occur anywhere in the body, most commonly appearing on the elbows, knees, trunk and scalp.
The skin cells affected with psoriasis multiply up to 10 times faster than the normal skin cells. As a result, the skin builds up bumpy red patches with white scales. This skin disease can't be passed from individual to individual(non communicable) but sometimes it occurs in members of the same family through genetic inheritance.
Psoriasis usually occurs in early adulthood. Mostly, it affects a few areas of the body but in severe cases, it can cover large areas of the body. The patches can be healed but it appears back throughout an individual's life if it is untreated.
Psoriasis usually starts with patches to a few spots of dandruff-like white scales to major eruptions that cover large areas of the body. It commonly affects the scalp, face, lower back, elbows, legs, knees, soles of the feet and palms.
There are five official types of psoriasis:
● Guttate
● Inverse
● Plaque
● Erythrodermic
● Pustular
The psoriasis symptoms can vary depending on the type. Some of the common signs and symptoms include:
● Red patches of skin covered with silvery, thick crust or scales.
● Small scaling spots, this symptom commonly appears in children.
● Dry, cracked skin which sometimes itches or bleeds.
● Swollen and stiff joints.
● Itching, soreness or burning sensation on the affected areas.
● Thickened, pitted or ridged nails.
There is no exact single cause for psoriasis but it is caused by a combination of various factors (multifactorial). Psoriasis is an immunomodulatory condition that causes inflammation, activating new skin cells to grow too quickly.
Normally, it takes around 10-30 days to replace the skin cells. With psoriasis, skin cells grow very quickly, that is, within 3 to 4 days. And, while replacing the old cells with new ones, creates bumpy red patches with silver scales.
Things that can trigger an eruption of psoriasis include:
● Cuts, scrapes, or surgical process
● Streptococcal infections
● Emotional stress
● Medications, such as blood pressure medications, Hydroxychloroquine, antimalarial medication and so on.
Yes, Stress is a common factor that triggers psoriasis skin disorder.
Stress also can reflect in itching, making it worse. This is why managing stress is an important skill for people who are with psoriasis.
Most people with psoriasis can also have serious health problems such as depression, diabetes and heart disease. Some people affected with psoriasis also have an inflammatory condition that affects their joints and are called psoriatic arthritis. So always consult a dermatologist at the earliest sign.
Luckily, there are many different treatment options for psoriasis, depending upon the psoriasis type, severity, previous treatments & age of the individual. Treatment helps to slow down the formation of excess skin cells and improves the appearance of the skin.
● Moisturizers for dry skin
● Steroid creams
● Coal tar - This is the most common treatment for scalp psoriasis and is available in foams, shampoos, lotions, creams, and bath solutions.
● Retinoid creams.
● Phototherapy or light therapy (PUVA therapy)
● Systemic immunomodulators
● Biologic treatments
Fortunately, we are here to help you, visit Dr. Madhu's Skin & Hair Clinic to get the best treatment to get rid of this skin disorder - Psoriasis. Yes! Apart from standard treatments for psoriasis, we have a range of newly approved treatment options including the latest approved biological therapy to treat psoriasis which is highly effective with negligible side effects. Our patients are highly gratified with our care and service.