From: The Financial Express
A new World Health Organisation (WHO) report shows that psoriasis, the painful, disfiguring condition involving skin and nails, affects approximately 100 million people worldwide.
There is no known cause or cure for this no communicable disease (NCD), which is somewhat associated with discrimination and stigmatisation of those affected, according to press release from WHO headquarters. The new WHO report aims to help raise awareness of multiple ways the disease can affect peoples’ lives and empower policy-makers with practical solutions to improve the health care and social inclusion of people living with psoriasis in their populations, reports UNB. – DH
http://www.thefinancialexpress-bd.com/2016/02/28/18368
Monday 29 February 2016
Sunday 28 February 2016
Dubai experts urge early treatment of psoriasis
From: Khaleej Times
Psoriasis is a systemic disease which means that patients with the disease are at a higher risk of developing other diseases, said officials at the Dubai Health Authority's Twitter clinic held on Thursday.
Health experts discussed the importance of early treatment for psoriasis not only to treat the disease with minimum complications but also to prevent the onset of other diseases. Psoriasis is a chronic non-contagious systemic disease that presents itself in the form of red patches covered by white scales all over the affected area.
Dr Anwar Al Hammadi, Director of Dermatology at the DHA, said: "Globally, a significant number of patients have limited knowledge of the condition."
"Lack of knowledge often leads to delayed treatment and misconceptions about the disease. Patients also need to understand that although there is no cure, it can be managed effectively through treatment and a healthy lifestyle. In addition, since the disease rarely causes any secondary infections patients can lead their life normally."
Al Hammadi highlighted that 30 per cent of patients with psoriasis may develop psoriatic arthritis, and are also prone to developing high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, depression etc, and therefore they need to take charge not just of their disease but also of their overall health."
Hereditary factor
Roughly psoriasis affects two per cent of the global population and hereditary factors play a major role in this disease. Thus if both parents have psoriasis then the likelihood of their children getting the disease is 41 per cent and it is 14 per cent if one parent has it. If one of the sibling is affected with psoriasis, the risk of other siblings developing it is six per cent.
Al Hammadi said advances in treatment of psoriasis is ongoing. Al Hammadi said presently treatment options include tropical crèmes, oral pills, phototherapy light therapy) and for severe cases biological injections.
Al Hammadi added that currently the latest form of treatment, which is being studied, is the use of a biological pill instead of injections.
Dr Shaikha Alia Al Moalla, Senior Dermatologist at the DHA, said: "It generally develops on the scalp, knees, or elbows, although it may affect any area of the skin. The production of skin cells at affected sites is accelerated, and the accumulation of excess cells causes scaly plaques."
Friday 26 February 2016
Natural Psoriasis Treatments: Which Alternative Therapies Do And Don't Work
By Steve Smith
Psoriasis is a lifelong condition characterized by the rapid buildup of cells on the skin’s surface, which appear as thick, silvery scales, and painful, itchy red patches. The condition affects more than two million people in the United States who collectively pay over $11 billion each year in direct and indirect health care costs. A good portion of this money goes to treatments, the most popular of which are steroidal or nonsteroidal topical creams, which can help reduce redness and swelling. Other treatments include light therapy and various medications. Trying to figure out which of these work isn’t only costly, it’s time consuming.
To avoid these issues, many people have resorted to alternative therapies, which tend to be cheaper and sometimes just as effective. More than a third of Americans practice these treatments, which include dietary changes, herbal supplements, aromatherapy, and acupuncture. Sometimes they work and sometimes they don’t. Acupuncture, for example, has previously been used to treat skin rashes caused by dermatitis. Conversely, studies have found herbal supplements are often ineffective at treating conditions like erectile dysfunction — some don’t even contain the herbal ingredients on their labels.
When it comes to alternative therapies for psoriasis, the evidence is just as murky. Here are some treatments shown to soothe your skin and reduce symptoms, and a few you should use with caution.
ulcers and other intestinal issues. But research has shown topical creams containing 10 percent Oregon grape can also help mild to moderate psoriasis. Sixty-three percent of patients involved in the study said it worked “equal to” or “better than” the standard psoriatic treatment, with 84 percent saying their psoriasis’ response to treatment was “good” or “excellent.” That said, this treatment should only be applied under a doctor’s supervision as it may cause additional itching or irritation.
http://www.medicaldaily.com/psoriasis-alternative-medicine-375002
Psoriasis is a lifelong condition characterized by the rapid buildup of cells on the skin’s surface, which appear as thick, silvery scales, and painful, itchy red patches. The condition affects more than two million people in the United States who collectively pay over $11 billion each year in direct and indirect health care costs. A good portion of this money goes to treatments, the most popular of which are steroidal or nonsteroidal topical creams, which can help reduce redness and swelling. Other treatments include light therapy and various medications. Trying to figure out which of these work isn’t only costly, it’s time consuming.
To avoid these issues, many people have resorted to alternative therapies, which tend to be cheaper and sometimes just as effective. More than a third of Americans practice these treatments, which include dietary changes, herbal supplements, aromatherapy, and acupuncture. Sometimes they work and sometimes they don’t. Acupuncture, for example, has previously been used to treat skin rashes caused by dermatitis. Conversely, studies have found herbal supplements are often ineffective at treating conditions like erectile dysfunction — some don’t even contain the herbal ingredients on their labels.
When it comes to alternative therapies for psoriasis, the evidence is just as murky. Here are some treatments shown to soothe your skin and reduce symptoms, and a few you should use with caution.
Capsaicin
Capsaicin, the component that makes food spicy, has been show to help us lose weight. But it can also help ease psoriasis symptoms. According to a 2010 study, over-the-counter creams and ointments containing capsaicin were able to reduce redness, inflammation and scaling. It doesn’t even take much to work — only 0.025 to 0.075 percent capsaicin will do. In two other studies, researchers found daily application of capsaicin cream could relieve symptoms in as little as six weeks.Turmeric
You might have had turmeric before, probably on a night when you ordered in some Indian or Thai food. But research has found the peppery, bitter, orange-colored spice does more than make food taste great; it also helps to reduce the potential for flare ups, which lead to extremely agitated skin and exacerbated symptoms. Take it as directed in supplement form, or use it in your food (3 grams per day is optimal).Oregon Grape
Mahonia Aquifolium, a type of herb also known as Oregon grape, is normally used for stomachulcers and other intestinal issues. But research has shown topical creams containing 10 percent Oregon grape can also help mild to moderate psoriasis. Sixty-three percent of patients involved in the study said it worked “equal to” or “better than” the standard psoriatic treatment, with 84 percent saying their psoriasis’ response to treatment was “good” or “excellent.” That said, this treatment should only be applied under a doctor’s supervision as it may cause additional itching or irritation.
Tea Tree Oil
Extracted from the leaves of a plant native to Australia, tea tree oil is normally used to treat acne or fungal infections. It’s supposed antiseptic qualities have led people to put it in their shampoos believing it will help ease psoriasis symptoms on the scalp, where topical creams are hard to apply. Unfortunately, when applied to the skin undiluted, tea tree oil can cause irritation and a burning sensation, something psoriasis patients would hope to avoid.Oats
Some studies have proven oats can help soothe the itchiness of poison ivy — thanks in part to the breakfast food’s anti-inflammatory properties. While these properties have been utilized in several oatmeal-based moisturizers, their effect on psoriasis patients hasn’t been measured, and therefore it’s unclear whether they’d actually work.Aloe
Used in its gel form, aloe vera is effective in relieving sunburns and treating ulcerative colitis. Though it may be a popular choice among psoriasis patients for the itchiness and burning associated with the condition, it might not be as effective as the Internet would have you believe. A 2005 study found that while it does have an effect, it’s not any better than a placebo treatment used over the same period. Also, don’t ingest it as a tablet, because that can be harmful to your health.http://www.medicaldaily.com/psoriasis-alternative-medicine-375002
'I control psoriasis. Psoriasis doesn't control me.'
By Steve Bieler
Brian Lehrschall of Raleigh, North Carolina, was diagnosed with psoriasis when he was 13 and with psoriatic arthritis when he was 15. That double whammy might have stopped some people, but not Lehrschall, who is now 33 and an enthusiastic Community Ambassador for the National Psoriasis Foundation.
“Why do I get up in the morning? To help people,” Lehrschall said. “I’d rather do that than anything. I have more empathy because of having psoriasis.”
Lehrschall knows how far public awareness of psoriatic disease has come since he was a teenager – and how far it still has to go. When he was in high school, it wasn’t just the other kids who made him feel like an outsider – it was his teachers, too. They kicked him out of class and exiled him to the nurse’s office. They thought his flaking and bleeding skin made him, in Lehrschall’s recollection, “a health hazard.”
Fortunately, Lehrschall has a large, extended and “100 percent supportive” family. When he told his parents that his teachers were discriminating against him, they swung into action. They soon had dermatologists from Duke University visiting the school, explaining psoriasis. Lehrschall’s teachers didn’t become empathetic after this episode, but at least they let him back into class.
“This is one of the reasons I volunteer with NPF,” he explained. “I don’t want kids to go through what I did.”
Lehrschall has been active in psoriasis support groups going back to his listing in the November/December 2007 issue of Psoriasis Advance. He’s logged hundreds of hours helping other people with psoriatic disease. He also works to improve the public’s understanding of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, including lobbying elected officials on the state and federal levels. For his good work, Lehrschall was our 2009 Volunteer of the Year.
In addition to his NPF activities, Lehrschall leads Boy Scout troops (“I spend more time in the woods than I do in my own house!”) and mentors other Boy Scout volunteers.
“I control psoriasis. Psoriasis doesn’t control me. If I have a bad day I know enough to stay down, hang it up, and not push myself. If you push yourself, you’ll be down for a week instead of a couple of days.” He laughed and said, “I just wish I’d listen to my own advice more often!”
https://www.psoriasis.org/advance/i-control-psoriasis-psoriasis-doesnt-control-me
Brian Lehrschall of Raleigh, North Carolina, was diagnosed with psoriasis when he was 13 and with psoriatic arthritis when he was 15. That double whammy might have stopped some people, but not Lehrschall, who is now 33 and an enthusiastic Community Ambassador for the National Psoriasis Foundation.
“Why do I get up in the morning? To help people,” Lehrschall said. “I’d rather do that than anything. I have more empathy because of having psoriasis.”
Lehrschall knows how far public awareness of psoriatic disease has come since he was a teenager – and how far it still has to go. When he was in high school, it wasn’t just the other kids who made him feel like an outsider – it was his teachers, too. They kicked him out of class and exiled him to the nurse’s office. They thought his flaking and bleeding skin made him, in Lehrschall’s recollection, “a health hazard.”
Fortunately, Lehrschall has a large, extended and “100 percent supportive” family. When he told his parents that his teachers were discriminating against him, they swung into action. They soon had dermatologists from Duke University visiting the school, explaining psoriasis. Lehrschall’s teachers didn’t become empathetic after this episode, but at least they let him back into class.
“This is one of the reasons I volunteer with NPF,” he explained. “I don’t want kids to go through what I did.”
Lehrschall has been active in psoriasis support groups going back to his listing in the November/December 2007 issue of Psoriasis Advance. He’s logged hundreds of hours helping other people with psoriatic disease. He also works to improve the public’s understanding of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, including lobbying elected officials on the state and federal levels. For his good work, Lehrschall was our 2009 Volunteer of the Year.
In addition to his NPF activities, Lehrschall leads Boy Scout troops (“I spend more time in the woods than I do in my own house!”) and mentors other Boy Scout volunteers.
“I control psoriasis. Psoriasis doesn’t control me. If I have a bad day I know enough to stay down, hang it up, and not push myself. If you push yourself, you’ll be down for a week instead of a couple of days.” He laughed and said, “I just wish I’d listen to my own advice more often!”
https://www.psoriasis.org/advance/i-control-psoriasis-psoriasis-doesnt-control-me
Saturday 20 February 2016
Sleep and the Effects on Your Skin
By Patti Zimmerman
The relationship between skin health and lack of quality sleep can be a vicious cycle. Compounding this issue may be conditions such as atopic dermatitis or eczema, which may lead to scratching throughout the night. Inflammatory membrane conditions like acne or psoriasis are also affected by poor sleep habits when the body produces an increase of stress hormones. Increased itching disrupts the sleep cycle resulting in the poor quality of sleep and worsening conditions. On the other hand, when the body gets a good night's sleep, this allows the epidermis to clear up, which improves skin health and improves sleep.
Reasons why not getting adequate sleep diminishes skin health and health in general:
Tips for obtaining good sleep and better skin health:
* Drink plenty of water during the day but limit evening consumption
* Don't eat a big meal late at night
* Sleep in a cool, dark, quiet room under a warm blanket
* Keep all electronic devices out of the bedroom
* Use clean cotton sheets as they don't collect dust mites and bacteria
* Avoid laundry detergents that are scented as they may irritate the skin
The old cliché of getting your beauty sleep is a must for having healthy skin that glows.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Sleep-and-the-Effects-on-Your-Skin&id=9324515
The relationship between skin health and lack of quality sleep can be a vicious cycle. Compounding this issue may be conditions such as atopic dermatitis or eczema, which may lead to scratching throughout the night. Inflammatory membrane conditions like acne or psoriasis are also affected by poor sleep habits when the body produces an increase of stress hormones. Increased itching disrupts the sleep cycle resulting in the poor quality of sleep and worsening conditions. On the other hand, when the body gets a good night's sleep, this allows the epidermis to clear up, which improves skin health and improves sleep.
Reasons why not getting adequate sleep diminishes skin health and health in general:
- When your body doesn't get enough sleep any existing skin conditions worsen. This can be increases in sensitivity, acne breakouts, allergic contact dermatitis reactions and irritant dermatitis. When these increases occur, the more skin care routines are needed to treat the ailment.
- Lack of or not enough sleep diminishes your skin's natural beauty. When there are increased inflammatory cells in the body, this leads to an increase in the breakdown of hyaluronic acid and collagen, which are the molecules that give the tissue its bounce, translucency and glow.
- Immune-related skin problems worsen when a lack of sleep occurs. When the body's ability to regulate the immune system is thrown off balance, increased inflammation arises. This also leads to getting sick more often and immune-related skin diseases like psoriasis and eczema to flare up.
- As we sleep, the body's hydration rebalances. When the body doesn't receive enough sleep the body can't process excess water for removal. This results in puffy bags under the eyes and under-eye circles, as well as, dryness and more visible wrinkles.
- When the body does not receive enough sleep the aging process accelerates. Damaged cells are repaired with the rise of growth hormones during the deep sleep phase. Without this deeper sleep phase's only small breakdowns are accumulated instead of being reversed, thus the noticeable signs of aging.
- Insufficient sleep can be attributed to weight gain. Lack of sleep has been linked to excess snacking and calorie consumption.
Tips for obtaining good sleep and better skin health:
* Drink plenty of water during the day but limit evening consumption
* Don't eat a big meal late at night
* Sleep in a cool, dark, quiet room under a warm blanket
* Keep all electronic devices out of the bedroom
* Use clean cotton sheets as they don't collect dust mites and bacteria
* Avoid laundry detergents that are scented as they may irritate the skin
The old cliché of getting your beauty sleep is a must for having healthy skin that glows.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Sleep-and-the-Effects-on-Your-Skin&id=9324515
Friday 12 February 2016
Study negates lifestyle factor link in psoriasis, cardiovascular fitness
By Randy Dotinga
A new study suggests that patients with psoriasis have poorer cardiorespiratory fitness and provides some intriguing insight: Lifestyle behaviors — such as being unwilling to exercise due to unsightly skin — may not be the culprit.
A new study suggests that patients with psoriasis have poorer cardiorespiratory fitness and provides some intriguing insight: Lifestyle behaviors — such as being unwilling to exercise due to unsightly skin — may not be the culprit.
Study author Patrick Wilson, Ph.D., R.D., an assistant professor of Human Movement Sciences at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Va., launched the study to better understand the connection between psoriasis and cardiorespiratory health.
“There's pretty good evidence to suggest individuals with moderate-to-severe psoriasis are at greater risk for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases like type 2 diabetes compared to otherwise healthy individuals,” he says. “One big remaining question is whether this increased risk is directly related to the disease process itself, lifestyle factors, drug therapies or a combination thereof.”
There’s little known in general about how people with psoriasis react to exercise, he says. “There is reason to believe that they may not tolerate certain types of exercise, and that they have substantial psychosocial barriers to participating in activities that expose their skin.”
For the new study, published Jan. 22 in the Journal of Physical Activity & Health, Dr. Wilson examined statistics about cardiorespiratory fitness (via a treadmill test), psoriasis prevalence and psoriasis severity from the 2003-2004 National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey.
Of 1,093 participants aged 20-59, 26 reported having had psoriasis in their lives. Those reporting psoriasis had lower levels of cardiorespiratory fitness (36.2 vs. 39.1 mL·kg-1·min-1, ρ = .009) than the other subjects.
The difference is statistically significant, the study says, although it’s not clear whether the difference matters on a clinical level. Still, research has suggested that the difference is near a level of improvement that’s been linked to reductions in rates of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular events.
The subjects with psoriasis didn’t seem to be getting less exercise, at least to judge by self-report and accelerometer readings. Severity of psoriasis didn’t appear to affect fitness levels either. And those with psoriasis didn’t have higher BMI levels, unlike patients in the general population.
Dr. Wilson believes more research is needed to better understand the possible connection between psoriasis and poorer cardiorespiratory health.
For now, he says, the study findings come with messages for dermatologists: “Screening for cardiovascular risk is a good idea, especially for those with moderate-to-severe disease,” he says.
And, he adds, dermatologists should remember that severe psoriasis may indeed prevent patients from getting exercise. As a result, “referral to other health professionals such as psychologists and exercise physiologists could be part of the treatment plan.”
Tuesday 9 February 2016
Q&A: Common Misconceptions About Psoriatic Arthritis
By Amy Jacob
Psoriatic arthritis, a chronic skin condition that affects patients on physically and mentally – often impacts patients’ mobility in their daily lives. Healthcare professionals across all specialties have experience when dealing with these patients in different capacities.
MD Magazine interviewed Jason Faller, MD, rheumatologist at Mount Sinai hospital, NY, NY, to shed light on this condition.
1. With so much buzz lately of celebrities diagnosed with psoriasis/PsA, how would you describe the current disease landscape?
More than one million people in the US live with PsA, but the number may be higher given that the disease is so often misdiagnosed and underreported. It is certainly good to see public figures come forward to talk about how they are impacted by these conditions, and help shed light on the community as a whole. We see that PsA affects both men and women equally, with symptoms usually appearing between the ages of 30 and 50. Additionally, up to 30% of psoriasis patients develop psoriatic arthritis.
2. How has the conversation and action for treatment/prevention shifted? What triggered the birth of the Be Counted! campaign?
PsA is commonly confused with other types of arthritis, most often osteoarthritis or degenerative arthritis. Patients have expressed difficulty getting others to understand the nature of their PsA, a distinct disease, impacting their ability to function and manage social interactions. It doesn’t only affect a person’s ability to perform daily activities – such as work, hobbies, and exercise – but it may also affect their relationships with others. At the most basic level, some people living with psoriatic arthritis find their mobility is affected, making it difficult to walk easily or climb stairs. It’s important to understand that there is no cure for PsA, nor is it preventable. It is, however, important for people living with the condition to work with their doctors to understand the condition and develop a treatment plan that is right for them.
Be Counted! aims to combat misunderstandings about the disease, by uniting patients, advocates, and doctors to raise awareness of PsA, educate the public, and rally support for this chronic, autoimmune condition.
At the campaign website, PsACounts.com, you can watch videos that highlight different perspectives on the disease. I encourage everyone to help spread the word about the program and PsA by sharing the videos via your social media channels.
3. What is your role in this campaign or in other education-focused platforms?
I have partnered with Celgene on Be Counted! to help provide my perspective as a rheumatologist on the condition, and to help educate the public about PsA. On PsACounts.com, you’ll see that I have been included in a video where I’ve discussed tips for healthy living and how PsA impacts the patients I work with every day.
4. Since rheumatologists aren’t the only healthcare professionals dealing with these patients, what do you suggest primary care physicians need to know?
Primary care physicians, who may see PsA patients first, include a range of health care providers, like general practitioners, podiatrists, orthopedists, and physiatrists. Patients visit these physicians because of a variety of symptoms that range from swollen fingers and toes to back pain, foot pain, or other joint symptoms. These providers should be aware of the potential link between these symptoms and psoriatic arthritis. Clues to the diagnosis include prior history of psoriasis as well as other markers that can be found on x-rays and lab test results. By working closely with patients, these physicians can help make an accurate diagnosis and optimize a treatment regimen for those patients recommend an appropriate individualized treatment plan for the patient.
One treatment option for adult patients with active psoriatic arthritis is a prescription pill called Otezla, also known as apremilast.
5. For the more severe cases, how would you consider patients’ quality of life?
People with PsA can appear to be healthy “on the outside,” but their condition may actually impact their mobility and daily life. At the most basic level, some lose dexterity in their hands and some are unable to walk easily or climb stairs. In my experience, patients often shared how PsA impacts day-to-day activities, such as caring for their families, performing their jobs, as well as driving a car or doing laundry. This can be particularly difficult because PsA generally impacts individuals in their 30s-50s.
6. What is the future of PsA treatment? Are there new indications in the pipeline?
As I mentioned, there is no cure for PsA, however there are several ways to help manage the disease including lifestyle changes and medical treatment. People with psoriatic arthritis should work closely with their physicians to create a treatment plan that works for them.
http://www.hcplive.com/medical-news/qa-common-misconceptions-about-psoriatic-arthritis/P-2
Psoriatic arthritis, a chronic skin condition that affects patients on physically and mentally – often impacts patients’ mobility in their daily lives. Healthcare professionals across all specialties have experience when dealing with these patients in different capacities.
MD Magazine interviewed Jason Faller, MD, rheumatologist at Mount Sinai hospital, NY, NY, to shed light on this condition.
1. With so much buzz lately of celebrities diagnosed with psoriasis/PsA, how would you describe the current disease landscape?
More than one million people in the US live with PsA, but the number may be higher given that the disease is so often misdiagnosed and underreported. It is certainly good to see public figures come forward to talk about how they are impacted by these conditions, and help shed light on the community as a whole. We see that PsA affects both men and women equally, with symptoms usually appearing between the ages of 30 and 50. Additionally, up to 30% of psoriasis patients develop psoriatic arthritis.
2. How has the conversation and action for treatment/prevention shifted? What triggered the birth of the Be Counted! campaign?
PsA is commonly confused with other types of arthritis, most often osteoarthritis or degenerative arthritis. Patients have expressed difficulty getting others to understand the nature of their PsA, a distinct disease, impacting their ability to function and manage social interactions. It doesn’t only affect a person’s ability to perform daily activities – such as work, hobbies, and exercise – but it may also affect their relationships with others. At the most basic level, some people living with psoriatic arthritis find their mobility is affected, making it difficult to walk easily or climb stairs. It’s important to understand that there is no cure for PsA, nor is it preventable. It is, however, important for people living with the condition to work with their doctors to understand the condition and develop a treatment plan that is right for them.
Be Counted! aims to combat misunderstandings about the disease, by uniting patients, advocates, and doctors to raise awareness of PsA, educate the public, and rally support for this chronic, autoimmune condition.
At the campaign website, PsACounts.com, you can watch videos that highlight different perspectives on the disease. I encourage everyone to help spread the word about the program and PsA by sharing the videos via your social media channels.
3. What is your role in this campaign or in other education-focused platforms?
I have partnered with Celgene on Be Counted! to help provide my perspective as a rheumatologist on the condition, and to help educate the public about PsA. On PsACounts.com, you’ll see that I have been included in a video where I’ve discussed tips for healthy living and how PsA impacts the patients I work with every day.
4. Since rheumatologists aren’t the only healthcare professionals dealing with these patients, what do you suggest primary care physicians need to know?
Primary care physicians, who may see PsA patients first, include a range of health care providers, like general practitioners, podiatrists, orthopedists, and physiatrists. Patients visit these physicians because of a variety of symptoms that range from swollen fingers and toes to back pain, foot pain, or other joint symptoms. These providers should be aware of the potential link between these symptoms and psoriatic arthritis. Clues to the diagnosis include prior history of psoriasis as well as other markers that can be found on x-rays and lab test results. By working closely with patients, these physicians can help make an accurate diagnosis and optimize a treatment regimen for those patients recommend an appropriate individualized treatment plan for the patient.
One treatment option for adult patients with active psoriatic arthritis is a prescription pill called Otezla, also known as apremilast.
5. For the more severe cases, how would you consider patients’ quality of life?
People with PsA can appear to be healthy “on the outside,” but their condition may actually impact their mobility and daily life. At the most basic level, some lose dexterity in their hands and some are unable to walk easily or climb stairs. In my experience, patients often shared how PsA impacts day-to-day activities, such as caring for their families, performing their jobs, as well as driving a car or doing laundry. This can be particularly difficult because PsA generally impacts individuals in their 30s-50s.
6. What is the future of PsA treatment? Are there new indications in the pipeline?
As I mentioned, there is no cure for PsA, however there are several ways to help manage the disease including lifestyle changes and medical treatment. People with psoriatic arthritis should work closely with their physicians to create a treatment plan that works for them.
http://www.hcplive.com/medical-news/qa-common-misconceptions-about-psoriatic-arthritis/P-2
Friday 5 February 2016
Stress can cause psoriasis
From: The Hans India
Psoriasis is not an infected disease. However a person’s lifestyle has more to deal with it
“Ten out of hundred persons have psoriasis gene, but only two to three might be at the risk of having this skin disease,” says Dr Syed Shazia Fatima, consultant cosmetologist at Kosmoderma skin and hair clinics, Hyderabad.
Speaking with the CityTAB, she explains how stress can be a possible reason for psoriasis and the natural therapy that can relieve the disease to an extent. “There are many ways on how the disease is triggered. Change in lifestyle is the main reason.
Any kind of stress emotional, mental or physical will cause chemical reactions in our body and affects the immune system. This will then have a direct affect on skin, which can cause psoriasis,” she says.
“People need to practice yoga and meditation to keep them fit and healthy. Practising these will help them control their stress level,” suggests Dr Shazia. The symptoms of psoriasis include an itchy skin with scales on it and a red infected area with silvery white flakes around. Individuals cannot trace the disease and a dermatologist help is recommended.
There is no complete treatment available for the cure of this disease. However, exposure to sun can be helpful. “Sunlight can reduce psoriasis. But, extended exposure without prior consultation can cause skin burn and in some cases worsen it.
Phototherapy is the treatment, to treat psoriasis. In sunlight the UVB rays and UVA rays help in reducing the problem when exposed. At clinic we use UVB rays to treat the patients,” she explains.
“Sea salts are also helpful to treat psoriasis. They remove the scales and relieve the patient from itching. Epsom salts when added with warm water and soaked can also reduce the itching sensation,” the doctor suggests.
“However skin should be moisturised after this. Psoriasis gets better in sunny and beachy areas and worsens in cold, dry areas,” she adds.
Following a certain diet can also help treat and prevent psoriasis.
“Eating fish and having fish oil supplements such as omega can be helpful. Following a diet low in fat, sweets and calories is one way. Avoiding taurine rich proteins, less meat and dairy products with eggs is also recommended,” she suggests.
Psoriasis can also occur due to injuries. “When proper care is not taken, this may worsen the case and result in psoriasis. Dry, dead skin is one way to worsen the disease. Always make sure that the skin is moisturised,” advises the doctor.
“Up to 90 per cent of Indians ignore hormonal problems. They should be attentive and consult a good dermatologist to have healthy skin. Smoking and drinking also plays the role of a catalyst for psoriasis,” she explains.
“Every 28-32 days our skin regenerates. In case of psoriasis patients, the regeneration time is prolonged. This means over dryness and the rapid growth of the infection. Following a proper diet and maintaining moisture are possible ways to reduce the infection,” said the doctor on a concluding note.
http://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Health/2016-02-04/Stress-can-cause-psoriasis/204795
Psoriasis is not an infected disease. However a person’s lifestyle has more to deal with it
“People need to practice yoga and meditation to keep them fit and healthy. Practising these will help them control their stress level,” suggests Dr Shazia. The symptoms of psoriasis include an itchy skin with scales on it and a red infected area with silvery white flakes around. Individuals cannot trace the disease and a dermatologist help is recommended.
Following a certain diet can also help treat and prevent psoriasis.
Psoriasis can also occur due to injuries. “When proper care is not taken, this may worsen the case and result in psoriasis. Dry, dead skin is one way to worsen the disease. Always make sure that the skin is moisturised,” advises the doctor.
http://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Health/2016-02-04/Stress-can-cause-psoriasis/204795
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