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What
Is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a skin condition in which
skin cells reproduce too quickly. The scaly patches caused by
psoriasis, called psoriatic plaques, are areas of inflammation and
excessive skin production. Skin rapidly accumulates at these
sites and takes a silvery-white appearance.
Plaques frequently occur on the skin of the elbows and knees, but can
affect any area including the scalp and genitals. Psoriasis is not
contagious.
The disorder is a chronic recurring condition which varies in severity
from minor localised patches to complete body coverage. Fingernails and
toenails are frequently affected (psoriatic nail dystrophy) - and can
be seen as an isolated
finding.
Psoriasis can also cause inflammation of the joints, which is known as
psoriatic arthritis. Ten to fifteen percent of people with psoriasis
have psoriatic arthritis.
The cause of psoriasis is not known, but it is believed to have a
genetic component. Several factors are thought to aggravate psoriasis.
These include stress, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking.
Individuals with psoriasis may suffer from depression and loss of
self-esteem. As such, quality of life is an important factor in
evaluating the severity of the disease. There are many treatments
available but because of its chronic recurrent nature psoriasis is a
challenge to treat.
For those with scalp patches which flare up from time to time it is
possible to manage at home. Coal tar shampoo treatments are improving
all the time and can be bought over the counter. Your pharmacist should
be able to advise. However if your scalp is covered with thick scale or
it does not clear up do consult your GP who may arrange referral to a
Dermatologist.
There is a range of treatments which can be prescribed including coal
tar, dithranol, salicylic acid, cortico-steroids and Vitamin D
derivatives to bring the flare-up to a manageable level.
Plaques on hands and feet can prevent individuals from working at
certain occupations, playing some sports, and caring for family members
or a home. The frequency of medical care is costly and can interfere
with an employment or school schedule.
The severity of psoriasis varies greatly from person to person. For
some people it is just a minor irritation, but for others it has a
major impact on quality of life. Individuals with psoriasis may also
feel self-conscious about their appearance and have a poor self-image
that stems from fear of public rejection and psychosexual concerns.
Psychological distress can lead to significant depression and social
isolation.
This
information is
not presented by a medical practitioner and is for educational and
informational purposes only
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