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Psoriasis is a common skin condition characterized by a buildup of rough, dry, dead skin cells. They look like raised, reddish-pink areas covered with silvery scales and red borders. Psoriasis usually occurs on the scalp, elbows, knees, groin, and lower back. It is a chronic (long-term) disease that "comes and goes," and may show up as a few spots or involve large areas. It is not contagious -- you can' t spread it from one part of your body to another, or from person to person.
More than 6 million people in the United States have psoriasis. You can develop psoriasis at any age, though it usually comes on gradually, and it affects both men and women. Doctors think psoriasis may be an inherited disease that can be triggered by emotional stress. Most cases are not painful, although severe ones can be. About 5% of psoriasis sufferers develop psoriatic arthritis, which involves painful and swollen joints and can be a more serious condition.
The following are symptoms of psoriasis:
Researchers don' t know what causes psoriasis. They do know that people who have it produce more skin cells than normal. A faulty immune system seems to be involved: In people with psoriasis, T cells (a kind of white blood cell) mistakenly attack skin cells. The new skin cells move to the outer layer of the skin too quickly, where they build up and form thick patches. There seems to be a genetic component -- you are more likely to develop psoriasis if a close relative also has the condition. Several underlying factors may trigger the condition or flare-ups, including:
Your health care provider will examine your skin and ask questions about your physical and emotional health. You may need a blood test to check levels of calcium, zinc, and certain other elements, and a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
Your provider may suggest one or several different treatment options.
Topical creams include:
Systemic drugs, used for more severe symptoms, are taken by mouth (orally). All can have serious side effects with long-term use. They include:
One of the treatments for psoriasis involves ultraviolet light. Some people may be able to get relief from symptoms through brief exposure to sunlight each day. But too much sun can make symptoms worse, so your doctor will need to set up a treatment program for you. Be sure to wear sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher and avoid sunburn. Artificial ultraviolet light may also be used, often along with medications, under the supervision of your doctor.
Mind-body therapies and stress management, including meditation and hypnosis, may help treat psoriasis. Some studies have shown that people who practiced meditation before receiving phototherapy had better results than people who had phototherapy alone. Exercise can help, too, as can drinking plenty of water.
Taking daily baths with lukewarm water and mild soap can help slough off scales. After your bath, gently pat skin dry and immediately apply a moisturizer to seal in water.
Talk to your doctor before taking any supplements or herbs, because some can have serious side effects or interact with common prescription medications such as blood-thinners and birth control pills. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask your doctor before taking any supplement, herb, or over-the-counter medication. Be sure to keep all your health care providers up to date on all therapies you use, including complementary and alternative therapies.
Do not take vitamin A and D supplements. Both are used in prescription medications in high doses. You cannot get the same benefit from a supplement. Also, taking a supplement with your prescription medication could be dangerous if you get too much of these vitamins.
Herbs are generally a safe way to strengthen and tone the body's systems. As with any therapy, you should work with your health care provider to diagnose your problem before starting any treatment. You may use herbs as dried extracts (capsules, powders, teas), glycerites (glycerine extracts), or tinctures (alcohol extracts). Unless otherwise indicated, make teas with 1 tsp. herb per cup of hot water. Steep covered 5 - 10 minutes for leaf or flowers, and 10 - 20 minutes for roots. Drink 2 - 4 cups per day. You may use tinctures alone or in combination as noted.
Few studies have examined the effectiveness of specific homeopathic remedies. Professional homeopaths, however, may recommend one or more of the following treatments for psoriasis based on their knowledge and clinical experience. Before prescribing a remedy, homeopaths take into account a person's constitutional type -- your physical, emotional, and intellectual makeup. An experienced homeopath assesses all of these factors when determining the most appropriate remedy for a particular individual.
No well-designed studies have looked at using chiropractic to treat psoriasis. A few case studies have reported that spinal manipulation may reduce skin lesions in some people. Researchers are still not clear whether chiropractic care is helpful for all people with psoriasis.
Acupuncture may help some people with psoriasis, although the evidence isn' t clear.
See your health care provider regularly until your psoriasis is under control.
A number of conventional medications used for psoriasis can cause birth defects. Pregnant women and those planning to become pregnant should not take these medications. Tell your doctor if you plan to become pregnant so you can discuss changing your medication.
Psoriasis may increase the risk of heart attack. Check with your doctor for follow up.
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