What is psoriasis?
But above all, it’s essential to clarify that psoriasis:
- ISN’T contagious
- DOESN’T result from poor hygiene
- DOESN’T affact fertility
What causes psoriasis?
Psoriasis is caused by an abnormal activation of the immune system that alters the aging cycle of skin cells, releasing certain inflammatory mediators.
The typical symptoms of psoriasis are:
- erhythema (reddening)
- thickening and peeling of skin
- dryness and itchiness
The course of psoriasis is unpredictable and tends to vary over time. Indeed, there are moments of remission in which the skin is defined as “clear skin”, free of lesions, spots, and thickening and peeling.
The areas commonly affected by psoriasis are:
- elbows
- knees
- sacral region
However, it can also affect the periumbilical region, scalp, genitals, fingernails, palm of the hands, and soles of the feet.
In children it can also affect skin folds and the face.
Psychological consequences of psoriasis
Being affected by psoriasis doesn’t only mean dealing with uncomfortable and often visible skin problems but can change the relationships and sociability of those who suffer from it.
Indeed, those affected by it can undergo changes related to self-image, causing them to feel different or judged.
This significant emotional burden, other than damaging self-esteem and inner peace, can also be so stressful it interferes with the success of treatment.
Therefore, confronting the emotional and psychological implications of the disease could be useful also for treating the disease itself.
If you suffer from psoriasis, don’t be afraid to talk about it: you’ll discover you’re not alone, and this will help you to confront challenges and negative emotions with greater strength.
How to combat psoriasis: therapies and treatments
We should note that a correct diagnosis and the most appropriate therapy must be provided by a medical specialist.
Typically, three types of therapy can be adopted, according to seriousness:
- topical therapy, with products designed to be used directly on the skin.
- systemic therapy, with oral or injectable medications.
- phototherapy, with exposure to special lamps that reproduce the benefits of exposure to sunlight.
It’s possible, upon advice from dermatologists, to combine treatments based on specific emollients for skin suffering from psoriasis with therapy.
The everyday use of an emollient product, formulated specifically to combat psoriasis, has the double benefit of:
- giving immediate relief
- improving in the long-term the typical effects of psoriasis.
Avoid products that are publicized as “miracle cures” for psoriasis. Remember that only a specialist can advise products with safe and dermatologically effective formulations.
The above information is not medical advice. It is given purely as an indication and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice.
