Psoriasis Facts And Myths: 5 Things To Know About Misunderstood Immune Disease

From medicaldaily.com

Often misunderstood as an ordinary skin disease, psoriasis is a condition where patients develop patches of red skin, often called lesions, covered with flakey dead skin cells. While the lesions commonly appear on the scalp, knees, elbow and torso, the condition may manifest itself differently in different people.
A large number of people do not acknowledge the condition or refrain from seeking treatment for it because of a number of misconceptions associated with it. Here, Dr. Sara Ferguson, a dermatologist at Penn State Medical Group in State College will help bust five such myths about psoriasis, providing a better understanding for those who need help.
Psoriasis is a skin disease.
In reality, psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes multi-system inflammation, and can affect the joints. Those suffering from the disease are also exposed to higher risks of developing heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, psoriatic arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease and obesity, among others.
While the extent of the skin lesions may differ from small patches for some to almost the entire skin for others, the patients must regularly consult a physician regarding the accompanying risks.
Psoriasis is rare.
Even though the National Psoriasis Foundation puts the number of people suffering from the disease in the United States at approximately 7.5 million, Dr. Ferguson explains that the disease affects two to five percent of the population — 16 million Americans —many of whom do not seek treatment because of mild symptoms.
Psoriasis is contagious.
Many fear that the disease can be contracted by touch and use this as an explanation for why psoriasis runs in families but in reality, it is not an infection. There is no virus or bacteria involved, and some develop it because of inherited genes, which when exposed to external triggers like infection or skin injury can cause psoriasis.
No can help with the condition.
There was a time when the treatment for the disease was limited, leaving many patients frustrated. However, a number of new treatments are now available and it is recommended that patients discuss the newer options with their dermatologist to decide what can work best for them.
Topical creams are the only available treatment for psoriasis.
For mild to moderate psoriasis, corticosteroids, vitamin D, anthralin, coal tar and salicylic acid can be applied to the skin. Another option is phototherapy, where the  skin is exposed to ultraviolet light on a regular basis. Medical supervision is essential for this.
Patients can also turn to regular systemic treatments like acitretin, cyclosporine and methotrexate — taken by mouth, injection or infusion. Protein-based drugs that target specific parts of the immune system like recently developed versions of TNF-alpha blockers, and a new classes of drugs like IL-17 inhibitors can also prove to be helpful.

http://www.medicaldaily.com/psoriasis-facts-and-myths-five-things-know-about-misunderstood-immune-disease-396201

How Diet Can Help Soothe Skin Issues That Come With Psoriasis

By Denise DeWitt

If you have psoriasis, you may find that certain foods cause flare-ups or make your condition worse, while others seem to ease your symptoms. Scientific data has not shown that any specific diet is guaranteed to improve or worsen psoriasis.
Try these diet strategies to find out what works best for you.
Consider these foods reported by some people as positively affecting their psoriasis:
Good fats
Omega-3 essential fatty acids, which are found in fatty fish including salmon, mackerel and sardines, are believed to reduce inflammation. Since psoriasis is caused by an overactive immune system, reducing inflammation may reduce psoriasis symptoms.
Plant sources of omega-3s include flaxseed, olive oil, pumpkin seeds and walnuts.
People with psoriasis can also benefit from a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids to reduce their risk of heart disease.

Fruits and Veggies
Colourful fruits and vegetables contain vitamin A which may help reduce inflammation and is known to improve the health of skin. Try to include carrots, squash, sweet potatoes, kale, spinach and broccoli in your diet.
Fruits that reduce inflammation include blueberries, mangoes, strawberries and figs.
Grains
Whole grains contain antioxidants and fibre that help fight inflammation. Good sources of whole grains include whole-grain bread, cereal and pasta, as well as oatmeal and brown rice.
Herbs
Some herbs are believed to help reduce inflammation and support the body’s immune system. Some people report reduced psoriasis symptoms with evening primrose oil, milk thistle and oregano oil.
Consider these foods reported by some people as negatively affecting their psoriasis:
Potatoes, peppers and tomatoes
Potatoes, peppers and tomatoes may make your psoriasis symptoms worse.
Alcohol
Alcohol is known to dilate blood vessels, including those near the surface of the skin. This may make skin more vulnerable to substances in the blood, and may inflame the skin. Alcohol also causes dehydration which may lead to dry skin.

Alcohol can be dangerous when taken with the psoriasis drug methotrexate. It can also interact with or reduce the effectiveness of other medications.

Red meat
Red meat may cause inflammation. If you eat meat, try to choose lean meats such as white-meat chicken or turkey. If you want to eat red meat, choose cuts that are less fatty.
Processed sugar
Processed sugar may promote inflammation and is known to be a major contributor to excessive weight gain. People who are obese may be more likely to develop psoriasis.
In addition, obesity may result in skin rubbing together which causes irritation and potentially increases flare-ups.
Fried foods
Fried foods are typically cooked in oils rich in omega-6 essential fatty acids. Corn oil is a common example of this type of oil. Omega-6s are likely to increase inflammation which can make psoriasis worse.
Gluten
Gluten may increase psoriasis symptoms, especially if you have a gluten intolerance. Gluten is found in products that include wheat, rye and barley.
Dairy products
Dairy may also increase psoriasis symptoms for some people.
Research has not identified specific foods to be known causes of psoriasis flare-ups. If you have a flare-up, try to remember what foods you ate recently so you can determine whether there is a pattern between your diet and the condition of your skin.
According to a report in Everyday Health, the worst diet for psoriasis is a fad or extreme diet. These diets may limit intake of necessary nutrients and negatively affect your skin.
Try to eat a well-balance, healthy diet that is overall low in fat and includes a variety of fruit, vegetables and whole grains.

If you have questions about your diet or about the health of your skin, talk to your health care provider.

http://www.empowher.com/psoriasis/content/how-diet-can-help-soothe-skin-issues-come-psoriasis?page=0,0

The Medical Minute: Clearing up common myths about psoriasis

From Penn State News

Psoriasis is a misunderstood disease, often kept under wraps by sufferers who want to hide their skin lesions. This week, Dr. Sara Ferguson, a dermatologist at Penn State Medical Group in State College, separates fact from myth about psoriasis and the various treatment options.

Myth: Psoriasis is rare.
Fact: Psoriasis affects 2 to 5 percent of the population, which means as many as 16 million Americans live with this condition. Many of them have not sought treatment from a physician because their symptoms are mild.
Myth: Psoriasis is a skin disease.
Fact: Psoriasis is a multi-system inflammatory disease of the immune system that can affect the joints. Yes, people who have psoriasis may have skin lesions or rashes that can be as small as a coin or that can involve most of their skin. Patients with psoriasis also are at higher risk for developing conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, psoriatic arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease and obesity. In addition to getting treatment for their skin, it’s important for these patients to consult regularly with their primary care physician about other risk factors.
Myth: Psoriasis is contagious.
Fact: Psoriasis is not an infection, and it does not involve a virus or bacteria. You cannot contract it by touching someone who has it, and you can’t “give” it to someone else. Psoriasis does tend to run in families, but not because they “catch” it from each other. Certain inherited genes can lead to psoriasis when a person who carries them is exposed to external triggers such as infection or skin injury.
Myth: No one can help.
Fact: Many patients who sought treatment years ago became frustrated with the limited treatment options available then. They may not realize that new treatments are available.
Myth: Topical creams are the only treatment for psoriasis.
Fact: In addition to creams, dermatologists can consider many treatment options. They include:

• Topical treatments applied to the skin, for mild to moderate psoriasis. These include corticosteroids, vitamin D, anthralin, coal tar and salicylic acid.
• Phototherapy, which involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light on a regular basis under medical supervision. Tanning beds are not phototherapy.
• Traditional systemic treatments, taken by mouth, injection or infusion. These include acitretin, cyclosporine and methotrexate.
• Biologic agents, which are protein-based drugs that target specific parts of the immune system. These include traditional and recently developed versions of TNF-alpha blockers, as well as new classes of drugs, such as IL-17 inhibitors.

Early studies suggest that some new drugs might decrease the risk of co-morbidities associated with psoriasis — although more research is needed.
If you have psoriasis, you can take steps toward lessening your symptoms and safeguarding your overall health. They include:

• Seeking treatment for your psoriasis. Discuss treatment options with your dermatologist to decide together what is best for you. If you need help finding a dermatologist, the websites of both the American Academy of Dermatology and the National Psoriasis Foundation offer directories of physicians who are experienced in treating psoriasis.
• Seeing your primary care physician for regular checkups that include screening for other conditions that are more likely to develop if you have psoriasis. Early diagnosis can help limit the progression of serious illness.
• Relaxation. Stress can cause your psoriasis symptoms to flare-up, so find healthy ways to relieve your stress, from walking to yoga to relaxing with a good book.
• Following a healthy lifestyle. Eat a nutritious, balanced diet, stay active, limit alcohol and don’t smoke.

http://news.psu.edu/story/422565/2016/08/25/medical-minute-clearing-common-myths-about-psoriasis

Psoriasis is a treatable condition

By Paige Elliott

Did you know August is Psoriasis Awareness Month? Psoriasis is a skin condition that is visually dry, itchy and scaly, and it is very common. More than three million cases are diagnosed in the U.S. per year.
Medical science says that it cannot be cured, but treatment may help. A diagnosis must be done medically. Psoriasis is a chronic disease that can last for years if not a lifetime.
Considered an immune system problem, psoriasis triggers include infections, stress and cold. The most common symptom is a rash on the skin, but sometimes the rash involves the nails or joints.
On the skin one will notice rashes, dryness, flakiness, peeling, small bumps, thickness, and/or redness. Other common symptoms of psoriasis are depression, inflamed tendons, itching, joint stiffness, plaque, or small dents in nails
On their website, the National Psoriasis Foundation states that a predisposition to the condition is in human genes and about 10 percent of the population has the gene, but only two or three percent of the population actually develops the disease. Two other related diseases are dermatitis, which is a rash caused by contact with a specific substance, and lichen planus, an inflammatory condition of the skin and mucous membranes.
Frankie Smith, a Minneapolis resident, lives with the disease lichen planus. She tells MSR, “I have been dealing with [lichen planus] since I was a teenager. It is very similar to psoriasis. My mother dealt with the same symptoms through her 20s and 30s.
“It can be bumpy and itchy, weepy of fluids, painful, and can leave extreme scarring after itching and scratching. Over the years, my doctors told me it is an immune system disease that can be triggered by anything a person may be allergic to.”
There are various treatments that can be employed singly or in combination. Medical choices, which include topical ointments, light therapy, and medications, can offer relief. Treatment aims to remove scales and bumps and stop skin cells from growing so quickly by modifying or simulating hormone effects, often to reduce inflammation or for tissue regrowth and repair.
Other treatments can be made naturally. It is possible to treat psoriasis and similar diseases through the reduction of dairy and wheat in your diet. One can also use topical treatments such as a combination of coconut oil, olive oil, and grapeseed oil or sunflower oil.
Shanda Bremer, another local resident, treats her son’s psoriasis naturally. “I buy a combination of natural oils and it relieves the condition. It does not cure it, but it makes his skin so much more healed and less inflamed and irritated,” she said.
Smith chose to change her eating habits. “After my mother and I tried topical ointments and light treatments, which made my skin peel like a snake, I chose to do my own research, and I decided to eliminate wheat and reduce my dairy intake,” she stated.
According to Psoriasis.com, other topical treatments include: Triamcinolone Acetonide, which can treat inflammation and Betamethasone to help with inflammation. Vitamin A derivatives are also used to unplug blocked hair follicles, prevent new blockages from forming, and help slow skin cell growth. Aceitretin treats severe psoriasis, along with Tazarotene to help with psoriasis and acne.
Salicylic Acid and Anthralin act as an anti-inflammatory to prevent and/or counteract swelling in tissues and joints. There are immunosuppressive drugs that help reduce the immune system’s response to the gene. Cyclosporine, taken orally, and Tacrolimus used topically are immunosuppressive drugs.
Finding what is best in dealing with psoriasis for you or a loved one involves trial and error. Smith says, “I have tried almost everything. I was told this would work and that would work. But, it was not until I decided to do my own research, find, contain and eliminate symptoms specific to me [that] I was then able to develop a system I could live with.”
If you know someone dealing with symptoms of psoriasis, there is probably a suitable treatment. It may take a lot of hard work and research with the help of a medical professional, but you can do it.
Smith also added, “Be sure to be open and have honest dialogue with your medical professionals. They may not know all the answers, but they can definitely lead you on the right path of finding what is best for you.”
“Listen to your body,” she continued. “If you are having symptoms, something is going haywire in your immune system and needs to be addressed immediately.”
In short, psoriasis is treatable, and seeking help from a medical professional or holistic health expert is critical in living an itch-free, bump-free, non-irritated life.

http://spokesman-recorder.com/2016/08/24/psoriasis-treatable-condition/

9 Common Misconceptions About Psoriasis

By Elizabeth Battaglino

August is Psoriasis Awareness Month, highlighting information about this persistent, chronic inflammatory skin condition caused by an inherited genetic defect that affects about 7.5 million people in the United States, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation.
The study of the genetic connection to psoriasis is fairly new: it wasn't until the early 1970s that research began. With recent improvements in technology and increases in funding, studies are beginning to rapidly expand.
Yet, many people—even those afflicted with this condition—aren't fully aware of the facts associated with this condition, and there are some pretty serious consequences and complications associated with psoriasis.
Here are some facts you may want to know:

• People with psoriasis are 3.8 to 7.5 times more likely than the general population to develop Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
• Psoriasis also puts you at higher risk for lymphoma, obesity, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
• Psoriasis, like any other chronic disease, can be stressful and increase the risk and rate of depression, suicide, smoking and alcohol consumption.

While many people don't know the facts about psoriasis, there are many commonly held misconceptions. Now is a good time to set the record straight, separating facts from myths:

Myth: Psoriasis only affects adults.
Fact: While it is primarily seen in adults, it can occur in all age groups. It usually strikes between the ages of 15 and 30. Although most people who will get it will have it by age 40, it can begin as late as your 50s.

• Myth: Psoriasis only affects your skin.
  Fact: Psoriasis causes the skin to grow faster than it can shed, resulting in sore, reddish, itchy skin with flaky, silvery white scales. Though symptoms vary from person to person, most people will suffer irritation on their scalp, knees, elbows, hands and feet. But it can also affect the eyelids, ears, fingernails, toenails, inside the mouth and soft tissues of the genitals.
  Additionally, about 40 percent of people with the disease experience joint inflammation that produces arthritis-like symptoms, a condition known as psoriatic arthritis.

• Myth: Psoriasis is contagious.
  Fact: You cannot "catch" psoriasis: It is a genetic condition triggered when there is a glitch in your immune system. Having one family member increases your risk, while having two parents with the disease increases it even more. But although it's genetic, you can have a relative with it and not get it at all.

• Myth: There is no effective treatment for psoriasis.
  Fact: Topical treatments, like anthralin, coal tar, emollients, salicylic acid, tazarotene, topical corticosteroids and some forms of vitamin D, can help with mild to moderate psoriasis. These treatments tend not to be effective for more serious cases. For those, treatment with UV light therapy and other medications might be more helpful.
  
  There are systemic treatments available (prescription drugs that work throughout the body), like cyclosporine, methotrexate, retinoids, biologic response modifiers and acitretin.

• Myth: If someone in your family has psoriasis, you will get it, too.
  Fact: Although it is an inherited disease, you can have the gene and never develop psoriasis. In fact, just 2 percent to 3 percent of people with the gene will actually go on to develop the disease.
• Myth: People with psoriatic arthritis should avoid exercise.
  Fact: Moderate exercise can improve joint pain and stiffness in some people. It can help increase flexibility and improve endurance.
• Myth: Food can trigger a psoriasis flare-up.
  Fact: That's unlikely.  Although symptoms wax and wane, there are definite things that commonly do contribute to a flare-up, like stress; cold, dry weather; strep throat; or even a skin injury like a cut, scratch or bad sunburn.
  
  There is a spice that can actually help with psoriasis: turmeric, that neon yellow-orange spice used to make curry, can ease symptoms by lowering the inflammation that fuels psoriasis, especially during a flare.
• Myth: If you have psoriasis, you should avoid baths and wash your hair infrequently.
  Fact: Baths containing oils or bath salts may help soothe the skin for many people with psoriasis, but it's important that the water is not too hot. Hot water can be irritating and drying. Also, limit the bath to about 10 minutes. Swimming is OK, but a shower should follow, because chlorine left on the skin can be irritating and drying. 

Myth: Food can trigger a psoriasis flare-up.
Fact: That's unlikely.  Although symptoms wax and wane, there are definite things that commonly do contribute to a flare-up, like stress; cold, dry weather; strep throat; or even a skin injury like a cut, scratch or bad sunburn.

There is a spice that can actually help with psoriasis: turmeric, that neon yellow-orange spice used to make curry, can ease symptoms by lowering the inflammation that fuels psoriasis, especially during a flare.

• Myth: People with psoriatic arthritis should avoid exercise.
  Fact: Moderate exercise can improve joint pain and stiffness in some people. It can help increase flexibility and improve endurance.

http://www.healthywomen.org/content/blog-entry/9-common-misconceptions-about-psoriasis?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+nwhrc_focuson+(HealthyWomen)

Severe Psoriasis Linked to High Risk of an Aortic Aneurysm, Especially in Younger Men

By Margarida Azevedo

People with psoriasis, a condition linked to systematic and vascular inflammation as much as inflamed skin, are at risk of an aortic aneurysm — and the risk rises with the severity of their disease, regardless of their overall cardiovascular health, a new study reports.
The research paper, “Increased risk of aortic aneurysm (AA) in relation to the severity of psoriasis: A national population-based matched-cohort study,” was published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.
Previous studies had shown that patients with psoriasis have increased vascular inflammation in each aorta segment, which remained significant even after adjusting for established cardiovascular risk factors and body mass index (BMI).  But data looking specifically at psoriasis and its possible association with an aortic aneurysm (an abnormal bulge in the artery’s wall) is scarce.

Researchers investigated this risk in 34,301 patients with psoriasis registered in the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. The patients were matched, by age and sex, with 137,204 controls without psoriasis. Both the patients and controls were followed for five years to identify those who subsequently diagnosed with an aortic aneurysm.

Results, adjusted to medical history and medication used, show that patients with psoriasis were at an increased risk for such aneurysms and that this risk increased with disease severity. Moreover, when the risk was classified by age and sex, researchers found the increased risk higher in male patients than in female patients, and higher for people younger than 50 years compared to older patients.
This study had some limitations, the authors said, namely the lack of information regarding patients’ Psoriasis Area and Severity Index scores, or their smoking habits and alcohol consumption.
“We found patients with psoriasis to have relatively higher risk for [aortic aneurysm], even after adjustment, suggesting the involvement of other factors that are intrinsically linked to psoriasis and independent from established cardiovascular risk factors,” the researchers concluded, according to a news release. “These findings suggest that patients with psoriasis, especially younger males and those with severe psoriasis, should be screened more closely” to allow for interventions that might reduce their risk of serious complications.

http://psoriasisnewstoday.com/2016/08/19/psoriasis-severity-linked-to-high-risk-of-aortic-aneurysm/

A healthy diet to treat psoriasis

From thefuss.co.uk

Scientists say there is little evidence to support the notion that diet can have a major impact on psoriasis, but many people with the disease swear they’ve found relief by changing what they eat.
This Psoriasis Awareness Month we speak to a number of experts to see what they think and whether they believe changing your diet can help alleviate psoriasis.
According to the Psoriasis Association, up to 1.8 million people in the UK are affected by psoriasis.
The condition can occur anywhere on the body and causes the skin to become flaky and itchy. There is no cure for psoriasis but there are many ways it can be managed on a daily basis.

Foods to avoid if you have psoriasis

Sugar

It’s the hidden sugars in our food we need to watch out for. Always check the sugar content in sauces, bread, cereals, soups, yoghurts, dressings and most ‘low fat’ foods. Lily Soutter, Nutritionist at www.lilysoutternutrition.com explains why, “Sugar not only contributes to hormonal imbalances, which can lead to spotty and greasy skin but it can also play a role in inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea”.

Junk food

We all know fast foods are bad for us. But why does it flare up Psoriasis? Junk foods very often come with ingredients that may aggravate skin problems and worsen inflammation – including additives, sugar, and excess salt. They are also usually high in quickly digested and absorbed carbohydrates (think white bread, pastries, and crisps), which can upset the balance of natural flora in our gut as well as blood sugar and hormone balance, all of which can tie in with skin problems,” explains Nutritionist Cassandra Barns.
There is no scientific evidence that any special psoriasis diet is beneficial, says Paul Yamauchi, MD, of the Dermatology Institute and Skin Care Centre in Santa Monica, California. However, as long as you eat a healthy diet, he adds, there’s no harm in exploring whether avoiding some foods and eating others might help you manage psoriasis flares and reduce inflammation.

High-fat dairy

Psoriasis is a disease of inflammation, so it makes sense that an anti-inflammatory diet might help reduce symptoms. One food group commonly associated with inflammation is high-fat dairy. Try cutting out whole milk and full-fat cheeses, and opt for lower-fat versions instead. Even if it doesn’t improve your psoriasis, low-fat dairy is better for your heart, Yamauchi says.

Alcohol

“A lot of my patients tell me if they consume too much alcohol, it makes their psoriasis worse,” Yamauchi says. While no scientific studies prove the link, you may want to explore whether limiting alcohol consumption reduces flare-ups for you. The theory is that alcohol dilates the blood vessels, giving white blood cells and other substances in the blood easier access to the skin, thus promoting the inflammatory response that triggers psoriasis flares. Alcohol also dehydrates your body and can dry the skin, worsening psoriasis symptoms.

Foods to eat if you have psoriasis

Omega 3

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation and Omega 3 fatty acids, found in fish oil can be very helpful in reducing it. However, not all fatty acids are the same –  Omega 6 (vegetable oils) might actually increase inflammation.  “Unfortunately, many people have much higher levels of omega 6 than omega 3 in their body, often due to the use of vegetable oils in cooking and the lack of oily fish consumption. “To correct this balance, cut out all vegetable oils and margarine (as well as processed food) and replace it with healthy fats such as olive oil, coconut oil, butter or ghee. Aim to eat oily fish such as sardines, salmon or mackerel at least three times a week,” recommends Dr. Marilyn Glenville, the UK’s leading Nutritionist and author of Natural Alternatives of Sugar (www.marilynglenville.com).
Make sure you include in your daily menu avocados, smoked salmon, nuts, and seeds. Lily Soutter, Nutritionist at www.lilysoutternutrition.com says: “They not only have great hormone balancing effects, which can help prevent spots but also are potent anti-inflammatories, which can reduce symptoms of eczema and psoriasis”.

Tumeric

‘Curcumin (a component of turmeric) is a strong anti-inflammatory agent, helpful when treating chronic conditions, such as psoriasis or arthritis.’ says Barns.

Vitamin A

“Fruits and vegetables that provide vitamin A help promote healthy skin. Good sources of vitamin A are cantaloupe, carrots, mango, tomatoes, and watermelon,” Yamauchi says.

Herbs and herbal supplements

Some people with psoriasis find their skin condition responds to herbs used to enhance the body’s immune system and reduce inflammation. While no scientific evidence supports the use of herbs or herbal supplements, some psoriasis patients report success with evening primrose oil, milk thistle, and oregano oil.

Chamomile tea

Robin Aspinall, Managing Director of 100% natural first aid spray NatraSan, says: “A cup of chamomile tea can not only help you to relax but the topical anti-inflammatory properties of this daisy-like flower can help to relieve psoriasis flare-ups. Add one heaped teaspoon of chamomile flowers to one cup of boiling water, leave for 10 minutes then strain out the flowers. Soak a clean cloth in the liquid and apply to the affected area.”

Psoriasis and stress

Psoriasis is more than a physical condition; it can also lead severe to psychological effects. Although every sufferer has different triggers for their psoriasis, symptoms often worsen during times of stress and anxiety. Learning ways to deal with stresses and annoyances can help. Some people find that exercise can help to relax them and therefore improve symptoms.
“When irritated skin flares up in visible places, people tend to worry about their appearance. That can affect personal and work life, causing anxiety and tension” explains Barns.
How to reduce your stress levels? Dr. Glenville suggests to eat yourself happy: “We need to make sure that our levels of serotonin (the ‘feel good’ hormone) remain high. A simple change of diet can work wonders. The body makes serotonin from tryptophan, which occurs naturally in foods such as dairy products, fish, bananas, dried dates, soy, almonds, and peanuts. The manufacture of serotonin depends on how much tryptophan is transported into your brain. Combining the foods mentioned above with unrefined carbohydrates, such as brown rice, wholemeal bread or oats helps the body to release insulin to help tryptophan uptake to the brain. A good example would be to kick start your day with eggs and wholemeal toast for breakfast.”

Vitamin D and Psoriasis

Vitamin D, often called the ‘sunshine vitamin’, has an enormous influence on our body. Not only is it vital for bone health as well as obesity and diabetes, but it can also help with psoriasis. “Vitamin D can change the way cells grow. As those who suffer from Psoriasis tend to produce more skin cells, it can slow this process down and cause the plaques to become less scaly and thinner,” says Shona Wilkinson, Nutritionist at SuperfoodUK.com the online shopping destination for health & wellbeing.
So what can we do? “It can be difficult to get enough sunlight to stimulate vitamin D synthesis in this country – even in the summer! The ideal first step is to get your vitamin D level tested to see how much yours needs to increase, if at all. In most cases, your doctor will do this for you. If you’re deficient (under 75 nmol/L) or ‘insufficient’ (under 100 nmol/L) then taking a supplement can be the best way to get your level up.”

How to treat psoriasis

You could also try Dermalex Psoriasis (£29.99 for 150g). Dermalex reduces psoriasis symptoms, moisturises the skin and helps prevent new flare-ups. It normalises skin cell production and activates the skin’s own repair mechanism, uniquely repairing the skin barrier and it doesn’t contain perfumes or parabens.
Keeping the skin moist and nourished from the outside is crucial, as it can bring instant relief from itchiness and discomfort. However, emollient creams that are often recommended by doctors and pharmacists, rarely provide long-term relief. What’s more, they can even irritate already inflamed skin, as very often they contain chemicals, such as chlorocresol and Cetearyl alcohol. Instead, try a natural cream or balm, such as What Skin Needs Skin Balm (£13.99), which contains a blend of natural ingredients including Plantolin, an extract from an Australian indigenous plant. This powerful ingredient along with Aloe Vera extract and tea tree essential oil can help to manage skin conditions by reducing inflammation and oxidative damage. The formula as a whole is designed to reduce irritation, soothe and repair dry and damaged skin.

http://www.thefuss.co.uk/psoriasis-diet/

8 Psoriasis Triggers to Avoid

By Denise DeWitt

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that attacks the skin. Normally, the immune system helps defend the body against germs that can make us sick. But when the immune system malfunctions, it can attack healthy cells instead.
People with psoriasis develop skin plaques which are itchy, thick patches of skin. Plaques may look sore and red or may look like white scales.
Psoriasis can also lead to dry patches of skin that may bleed, stiff or swollen joints, and thick or ridged fingernails or toenails.
Psoriasis symptoms often come and go seemingly at random. But there are things you can watch out for to reduce the likelihood of a flare-up.
Be aware of these psoriasis triggers and avoid them:
1) Dry skin
Cold, dry weather can lead to dry skin and may make symptoms worse. If you can’t escape a cold or dry climate, be sure to use lots of moisturizers on your skin. A humidifier in the house can also help keep your skin moist.
2) Skin damage
Your skin may be extra-sensitive to any kind of bump or cut. Take care when trimming your fingernails that you don’t break the skin, and be careful when shaving.
Avoid deliberate skin damage such as acupuncture, tattoos or piercings, as well as wearing clothing that rubs on your skin. Be sure to wear gloves when working in the yard, and use bug spray to protect against insect bites.
3) Stress
Stress may trigger a psoriasis flare-up. And if you are worried about a flare-up, you may feel even more stressed. So try to limit stressors in your life and consider yoga, meditation and other techniques to keep your stress levels at a minimum.
4) Medications
Drugs that affect your body’s immune response may act as triggers for your psoriasis. Examples include beta-blockers for high blood pressure, lithium for mental disorders and anti-malaria drugs.
5) Alcohol
The connection is not clear, but some people with psoriasis see increased skin symptoms if they have more than one or two drinks a day.
Alcohol may also interact with some medications prescribed to control psoriasis. Check with your doctor before you drink alcohol.
6) Sunlight
A little bit of sun is good for your skin. Research shows that the ultraviolet light in sunshine can slow the growth of skin cells. But be careful you don’t get too much sun.
A sunburn can be a psoriasis trigger as well as increasing your risk for skin cancer. Some psoriasis medications may make your skin more sensitive to sun damage.
7) Infections
A simple cold or sore throat that activates your immune system can also trigger a psoriasis flare-up. This is particularly true if you have strep throat.
So if you tend to get strep or have a lot of sore throats, don’t try to wait them out. Talk to you doctor to see if you should take antibiotics.
8) Weight
Some studies show that being overweight or obese may contribute to psoriasis flare-ups. Be sure to maintain a healthy weight, get regular exercise, and eat a healthy diet to help keep your psoriasis under control.
Some people find that avoiding certain foods, especially those that cause inflammation, also helps them avoid flare-ups.
Psoriasis may clear up for months or even years, or may follow a cycles of flare-ups that vary depending on the season or other factors.
If you have questions about psoriasis or what you can do to protect your skin, talk to your health care provider.

http://www.empowher.com/psoriasis/content/8-psoriasis-triggers-avoid?page=0,1

Do You Have Eczema or Psoriasis? How to Tell Them Apart

By Stacy Lloyd

It’s not surprising that many people don’t know the difference between eczema and psoriasis. It’s easy to confuse the two diseases as they are very similar in appearance. Many doctors believe both skin conditions stem from an immune disorder.
While they have some things in common, there are many differences.
With psoriasis, a person’s white blood cells attack their own skin by mistake, setting off a chain reaction causes blood vessels to dilate and attract even more white blood cells.
The result? Increased production of skin cells that travel too fast to the surface, in days rather than in weeks.
This causes dead skin and white blood cells to build up and appear as thick, scaly silvery patches on the skin's surface, according to Mayo Clinic.
As for eczema, genetic and environmental factors are believed to be involved.
Eczema makes skin red and inflamed. Patches are sometimes dark, rough, leathery and swelling. They can be crusty, oozy or scaly. They can appear on the face, inside the elbows, the back of knees and on hands and feet.
One of the worst symptoms of eczema is an intense itch which mostly happens at night. Sometimes people can scratch so hard that their skin bleeds.
For those with psoriasis, the patches may or may not be itchy. But if they do itch, the skin may feel burning or stinging. According to WebMD, some say it feels like being bitten by fire ants.
The scaly and silvery patches are often found outside the elbows and knees. It’s common for it to affect the scalp and nails as well.
An eczema breakout can be triggered by certain substances and environmental factors.

Healthgrades listed common triggers as household cleansers, detergents, soaps, chlorine, dust, pets, pollen, mold, dandruff, wool and some foods. Other culprits include sudden temperate changes and stress.
Psoriasis triggers are generally physiological. For example, some medications, stress, cold weather, smoking and alcohol can induce or worsen an episode of psoriasis, according to LiveStrong.com.
Sufferers can also experience outbreaks when their skin is injured. This happens via scratches, sunburn and vaccination.
Eczema tends to be a childhood skin disease. Bel Marra Health said that many people outgrow it when they become teens or are in their early twenties.
Psoriasis, on the other hand, usually appears between the ages of 15 and 35. Unfortunately, it’s not limited to that age range. People of other ages can get it too.
According to Bel Marra Health, 31.6 million Americans have eczema and approximately 7.5 million people suffer from psoriasis.
When it comes to treatments, eczema patients respond well to corticosteroid creams and antihistamines which reduce inflammation and relieve itching. Phototherapy (using ultraviolet light) keeps the immune system in check.                                       

There is no cure for psoriasis, but patients can benefit from three types of treatments.
Topical treatments can be salicylic acid and steroid creams. Phototherapy is also effective. And oral medications work with the immune system or clear the psoriasis patches.

http://www.empowher.com/skin-hair-amp-nails/content/do-you-have-eczema-or-psoriasis-how-tell-them-apart?page=0,1

Top tips for dealing with psoriasis

From Cheshire-today.co.uk

According to the Psoriasis Association up to 1.8 million people in the UK are affected by psoriasis.
The condition can occur anywhere on the body and causes skin to become flaky and itchy. And while there is no cure there are many ways it can be managed on a daily basis.
Here, Robin Aspinall, managing director of 100% natural first aid spray NatraSan, offers his top tips on chemical-free ways to cope with this painful ailment:
Stay calm and choose nature
Psoriasis is more than a physical condition; it can also lead severe to psychological effects. Although every sufferer has different triggers for their psoriasis, symptoms often worsen during times of stress and anxiety. Learning ways to deal with stresses and annoyances can help. Some people find that exercise can help to relax them and therefore improve symptoms.
Top tip – the wonders of chamomile
A cup of chamomile tea can not only help you to relax but the topical anti-inflammatory properties of this daisy-like flower can help to relieve psoriasis flare-ups. Add one heaped teaspoon of chamomile flowers to one cup of boiling water, leave for 10 minutes then strain out the flowers. Soak a clean cloth in the liquid and apply to the affected area.
Control your diet
Nutritionists recommend an omega-rich diet to help psoriasis. Oily fish is packed full of essential omega-3 fatty acids which can help reduce inflammation and build up a strong immune system, which in-turn may help to relieve itchy symptoms. Avoid dairy, fried food, refined sugars and alcohol as these are thought to exacerbate itchiness. For an extra boost, try and get as much sunlight as possible or consider vitamin D supplements to help reduce skin inflammation and irritation.
Try NatraSan
Many over-the-counter products for psoriasis can lead to detrimental side-effects for sufferers. 100% natural spray, NatraSan contains hypochlorous acid – a mild but highly effective antiseptic produced naturally by the human body to fight off germs and bacteria.
This product is ideal for people that suffer from psoriasis on the scalp especially as it is non-greasy and soothes irritation. Hypochlorous acid speeds up the body’s healing process so can help with any cracked, sore areas too.
It costs £10 for 250ml and the Travel Buddy is £7 for 100ml. Available at www.natrasanuk.com
World Psoriasis Day, held on 29th October, aims to raise awareness about this extremely irritating and often aggressive immune condition.

http://www.cheshire-today.co.uk/41865/top-tips-for-dealing-with-psoriasis/

Psoriasis Linked to Social Anxiety and Depression in Study

By Daniela Semedo

Psoriasis is linked to depression, poor sleep quality, and anxiety interacting with and being around others, researchers from University Hospital Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele in Italy reported. The findings were recently published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, in a study titled “Psychopathological Variables and Sleep Quality in Psoriatic Patients.”
Particular attention has been given to the existing link between psoriasis and psychosocial stress. In fact, psychosocial stress is a risk factor for this skin disease — a disease that can, in turn, dramatically affect a patient’s’ self-image, causing considerable stress.
To assess the prevalence of psychiatric disturbances and sleep disorders in psoriatic patients, while also taking into account demographic and clinical variables, the researchers recruited 102 patients with psoriasis. All were asked to complete the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS), the Interaction Anxiousness Scale (IAS), the Audience Anxiousness Scale (AAS), and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). The severity of the patients’ skin lesions was assessed using the Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI).
Results revealed that psoriasis was associated with depression (37.5% of patients), clinically relevant interaction anxiety (46.1%), and clinically relevant audience anxiety (47.1%).
Thirty-nine patients (38.2%) presented a PSQI ≥ 5, the cutoff value indicating poor sleep quality. An association between interaction anxiety and psoriasis-related erythema of the lower limbs, as well as between PSQI ≥ 5 and head psoriasis-related erythema, was found, particularly among male patients.
“In light of what has been reported here, it is apparent that … psoriatic patients should be assessed from a holistic point of view, in order to identify associated disorders that could benefit from targeted treatments. Other studies with a larger sample size and a healthy control group are necessary to confirm our results,” the researchers concluded.
Psoriasis is a long-lasting autoimmune disease which is characterized by patches of abnormal skin. These skin patches are typically red, itchy, and scaly, and may vary in severity from small and localized to full body. Psoriasis affects 2%–4% of the general population in Western countries.

http://psoriasisnewstoday.com/2016/08/08/psoriasis-linked-to-social-anxiety-and-depression-in-study/

Treating psoriasis reduces risk of other ailments: Study

By Emily Lunardo

A new study has found that treating psoriasis may reduce the risk of developing other health problems. Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition, and because the associated inflammatory processes can give rise to other health complications. An estimated 7.5 million Americans suffer from psoriasis.
Health complications associated with psoriasis include heart disease, obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol and blood pressure, and stroke.
The study suggests that proper treatment and management of the skin condition may help reduce the risk of other health problems in psoriasis patients. The goal of psoriasis treatment is to reduce inflammation, which translates into improved overall wellbeing.
The researchers suggest that all psoriasis patients should discuss their possible risk of other health complications with their doctors and work out a plan to treat psoriasis and address their risk factors. Following a healthy lifestyle is also important for further reducing their risk of adverse health outcomes. This includes eating well, exercising, not smoking, and minimizing alcohol intake.

http://www.belmarrahealth.com/treating-psoriasis-reduces-risk-of-other-ailments-study/