Psoriatic arthritis and you

From southplattesentinel.com

This week we are going to discuss and explore the condition known as psoriatic arthritis. Psoriatic arthritis is an auto immune disease read the body’s immune system is attacking itself. In psoriatic arthritis the patient generally has psoriasis, a condition which causes red patches of skin topped with silvery scales.

The patient with psoriatic arthritis will not only have psoriasis but will also develop joint pain. The joint pain specifically includes swollen fingers and toes, lower back pain and foot pain. The patient’s with lower back pain typically have inflammation of the joints between the vertebrae known as spondylitis and can also develop sacroiliitis, an inflammation of the sacroiliac joint. The patients with foot pain can especially demonstrate pain at the back of the heel (Achilles tendonitis) or plantar fasciitis at the sole of the foot and heel.

In all cases, psoriatic arthritis behaves much like rheumatoid arthritis with the specific exception that it is associated with psoriasis, also an auto immune condition. Auto immune conditions are rheumatologic conditions, that is to say that they deal with the immune system and area grouped in a category of conditions in which the immune system attacks the human body (it’s own self) Auto immune conditions are particularly problematic as usually the body is attempting to heal itself while in auto immune the body is attacking itself for some reason.

Treatment of auto immune conditions largely depends on medications to suppress the immune system. Patients with psoriatic arthritis often have psoriasis of the skin and fingernails as well as a family history of the disease. It can occur in any age but most often develops in adults between the ages of 30 and 50. A small percentage of people with psoriatic arthritis develop arthritis mutilans, a more severe and painful disabling form of arthritis which destroys the small bones in the hands especially the fingers leading to disfigurement, debility and dysfunction.

As you can see psoriatic arthritis has commonalities and differences, however, no matter how severe, the condition should be treated. Seeing an occupational therapist is often helpful for the hand, pain and dysfunction, physical therapy for the foot and heel pain as well as the back pain and seeing a rheumatologist to deal with the auto immune portion of the condition with specific medications geared toward suppressing the auto immune response.

https://www.southplattesentinel.com/2019/12/26/psoriatic-arthritis-and-you/

What to know about psoriasis

From koreatimes.co.kr

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with a genetic basis, but environmental triggers often make symptoms of the disease flare up.
Skin cells of psoriasis patients proliferate up to 10 times faster than normal. The main symptoms of psoriasis are red, flaky, crusty patches and slivery scales covering them. It also causes intense itching or burning sensations.
Patients who have recovered still have a high chance of recurrence over their life time.
According to data from the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS), 163,531 people were treated for psoriasis in 2018. The number of patients treated for the skin disease has been around 160,000 annually for the last five years since 2014.

     A psoriasis patient uses anti-inflammatory ointment to relieve symptoms. According to                        government data, 163,531 people were treated for psoriasis in 2018. /Gettyimagesbank

"Unlike some other skin conditions such as scabies and impetigo, psoriasis is not contagious. It isn't caused by contagious bacteria or another type of infection, but it is often a lifelong condition that requires a long-term treatment," said prof. Cho Nam-joon of NHIS Ilsan Hospital.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease. It means people must have specific genes to develop the disease, but having the gene doesn't necessarily mean developing the disease.
"Patients do have to have those genes. However, environmental factors generally activate the condition," Cho said.
Causes
The exact cause of psoriasis is not fully known, but scientists believe that it is a kind of autoimmune disease.
While the immune system produces T cells that travel through the body to protect the body against infectious agents such as viruses or bacteria, the T cells of psoriasis patients attack healthy skin cells by mistake, as if to heal a wound or to fight the infection. Normally, skin cells are replaced every 10 to 30 days, but with psoriasis, new cells grow every three to four days. The build-up of old cells being replaced by new ones creates those silver scales.

Psoriasis triggers
Many environmental and lifestyle factors may trigger psoriasis, although not everyone with the illness has the same triggers.
The factors include: infections such as strep throat or skin infections; injury to the skin such as a bug bite or severe sunburn; stress; smoking; heavy alcohol consumption; vitamin D deficiency; and certain medications including lithium prescribed for bipolar disorder as well as high blood pressure medications such as beta blockers, antimalarial drugs and iodides.
Smoking doesn't just trigger psoriasis but could increase the severity of the disease.
Experts said smoking may cause one in five cases of psoriasis and doubles the risk of getting the condition. This may be due to the effects of nicotine on skin cells, skin inflammation, and the immune system.
Although some say that allergies and certain foods can trigger psoriasis, these claims are mostly anecdotal.

Treatment
Despite the fact that psoriasis is incurable, it responds well to many topical and systemic treatments. Even people with severe cases of psoriasis can get relief during flare-ups in most cases.
When a doctor confirms psoriasis, treatment will depend on the type and seriousness of the condition. The main options include medications and phototherapy.
People with psoriasis should use emollients to keep the skin moisturized. The emollients can help reduce the itching and irritation and may reduce the number of lesions.

Patients can rub the emollients directly into the affected skin to bring local relief without major side effects. Some doctors recommend salicylic acid ointment which soothes the skin by promoting the shedding of psoriatic scales. However, using salicylic acid may cause the body to absorb too much of the medication, leading to side effects.
Using steroid creams decreases inflammation, relieve itching, and block the overproduction of cells. But such creams are strong and can cause side effects that include burning, dryness, irritation, and thinning of the skin.
Even regular doses of sunlight can help psoriasis lesions in many people. For persistent, difficult-to-treat cases of psoriasis, many doctors recommend light therapy such as ultraviolet B light (UVB) and narrow-band UVB therapy.

https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/nation/2019/12/119_279570.html

Suffering from psoriasis? Symptoms, causes, prevention & natural home remedies to help tackle the problem

From timesnownews.com

The most common symptoms of psoriasis include ridged nails, cracked skin that may bleed, scaly plaques on the scalp, and burning sensations around patches.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that causes the rapid build-up of skin cells. It is characterised by symptoms and signs such as red patches, itching, and soreness on the skin. Psoriasis causes cells to develop rapidly on the skin that leads to thickened skin, silvery scales, and crusty patches. Scales typically develop on joints and it may develop on face, scalp, feet, neck, and hands. This entire process normally takes around three to four weeks. Psoriasis is not contagious i.e. you do not get it by touching someone who has psoriasis.

         Here's all you need to know about psoriasis remedies  |  Photo Credit: Getty Images

Types of psoriasis

1. Plaque psoriasis: Plaque psoriasis is the most common form of psoriasis. It appears on the skin in patches that causes red skin lesions covered with silvery scales.
2. Guttate psoriasis: Guttate psoriasis is not as common as plaque psoriasis and can go away on its own in a few weeks or months. It appears as small and round spots called papules.
3. Inverse psoriasis: Inverse psoriasis is also known as flexural psoriasis or hidden psoriasis because it's usually not visible and can cause a painful rash under your breasts.
4. Pustular psoriasis: Pustular psoriasis is a severe form of psoriasis that makes your skin become red and painful with raised and pus-filled bumps.
5. Erythrodermic psoriasis: It is an inflammatory form of psoriasis that form deep red rashes all over the body.

Signs & symptoms of psoriasis include:

• Red patches on the skin
• Swollen and stiff joints
• Soreness around patches
• Itching and soreness
• Ridged nails
• Cracked skin that may bleed
• Scaly plaques on the scalp
• Burning sensations around the patches

What causes psoriasis?

• Vitamin D deficiency makes your skin unhealthy and causes dry skin that acts as a common trigger for psoriasis
• Stress and social anxiety worsen psoriasis because it makes the sign and symptoms look more severe
• Injuries to the skin such as bruises, burns, and cuts
• Infections act as a trigger that may cause psoriasis

Psoriasis: Who's at risk?

• Genetics i.e. family history: If one of your family members has psoriasis, you have a higher risk of getting it.
• Smoking has negative impacts on psoriasis treatment.
• Obesity raises your chances of getting psoriasis.
• A person having skin injury and infection such as strep throat is at risk.
• Hormonal changes: Psoriasis can also occur at times when the levels of certain hormones are unbalanced.
• Immune disorders such as human immunodeficiency viruses (HIV) because it weakens the body's immune system.
• Other common triggers include infections, stress, cold and environmental factors.

Natural home remedies for psoriasis:

• Avoid red meat and dairy products.
• Avoid processed foods.
• Keep your skin moisturised.
• Avoid drinking too much alcohol.
• Reduce stress and start meditating.

When to seek medical treatment?

If psoriasis signs or symptoms such as joint pain and skin swelling persist for more than one week without improvement and make your routine tasks difficult, then it is better to consult a doctor or medical practitioner for an examination.

Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a professional healthcare provider if you have any specific questions about any medical matter.

https://www.timesnownews.com/health/article/suffering-from-psoriasis-symptoms-causes-prevention-natural-home-remedies-to-help-tackle-the-problem/513675

Check with doctors before going herbal, psoriasis patients told

From khaleejtimes.com

Psoriasis is a skin disorder with no cure and requires treatment to control symptoms and flare-ups - but not all patients are ready to accept the need for life-long medications.

Some choose to fully rely on alternatives and this can be dangerous, experts said.

Dr Ahmed Mohsen Ameen, a specialist at the dermatology department of NMC Specialty Hospital in Abu Dhabi, said psoriasis is no longer a skin condition, it is a multisystem disease that can adversely affect joints, nails, the cardiac system and eyes.

Once, a patient came up to him with active skin psoriasis with mild arthritis, joint tenderness and swelling.

"Unfortunately the patient refused to take medicines as he thought they were harmful and toxic. Instead, he tried changing his lifestyle and turned to herbal treatment," Dr Ameen said.

Nine months later, he came back saying that he was admitted in a hospital with frozen joints and was not able to move for three weeks.

"Sadly, his psoriasis affected the sacroiliac joint and made significant erosions and destruction to the joint," the doctor said.

While a psoriasis cure is yet to be discovered, it can be easily controlled with new biologic treatment modalities and, hence, improve a patient's quality of life, Dr Ameen said.

He added that early treatment would make a difference. "This would not only help in treating the disease with minimum complications but also prevent the onset of other diseases."

              Psoriasis affects about 125 million people across the globe. (Alamy)

Millions affected

Psoriasis affects about 125 million people across the globe and it is said to be caused by an overactive immune system.

Typically, skin cells are replaced every 28 to 30 days. But for those with psoriasis, new cells grow and move to the surface every three to four days.

The extra skin cells form scales and red patches that are itchy and sometimes painful.

Dr Sonia Wilson, specialist dermatologist at RAK Hospital, said evidence suggests that the prevalence of psoriasis may be rising worldwide and in the UAE.

"According to the World Psoriasis Day consortium, about two to three per cent of the total population have psoriasis. In the UAE, around 4.3 per cent suffers from this disease and 8,000 new cases are diagnosed every year," she said.

The disease is believed to be related to problems with the immune system and considered a hereditary condition.

"According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, one in three patients with psoriasis report having a relative with the condition. If one parent is affected, an offspring has about a 10 per cent chance of having psoriasis. If both parents have the disease, an offspring has approximately a 50 per cent chance of developing it."

Psoriasis, she said, may start or worsen because of some triggers, such as infections, certain medications, smoking, stress, heavy alcohol consumption, vitamin D deficiency, skin injuries, bite reactions, getting a tattoo or piercing, or a severe sunburn. These triggers should be identified and avoided, Dr Wilson advised.

Controlling this genetic condition requires proper management and it's not always easy, she explained. "I have a patient who had tried various medication and creams since the condition manifested 20 years ago.

"After years of trying and testing different treatments, he is now on a medication that has worked for him to the extent that almost 90 per cent of the skin on his body is cleared," she said. "The genetic makeup of the condition lives within him, so he has to be on life-long medication."

https://www.khaleejtimes.com/news/uae-health/check-with-doctors-before-going-herbal-psoriasis-patients-told

Could Changing Your Diet Help With Managing Psoriasis?

From health.usnews.com

Learn about how dietary changes may help manage the condition in certain circumstances. This article is based on reporting that features expert sources.

Psoriasis – an autoimmune condition that causes skin cells to grow more rapidly, leading to itchy patches of red skin and silvery scales – affects about 8 million people in the U.S. today. The disease is also associated with a raised risk of joint problems – namely psoriatic arthritis, an inflammatory form of arthritis related to the skin condition – and cardiovascular disease, as well as other issues ranging from diabetes to depression.

Given that psoriasis is typically chronic and can have a whole-body impact, those with the condition are often motivated to make lifestyle changes, in addition to treatments, to manage it. Along those lines, there’s been some focus on whether dietary changes may help – specifically, what types of foods or drink a person might consume or avoid to keep it under better control.

Eating Less to Maintain a Healthy Weight

One thing that research has established is that obesity increases one’s risk of developing psoriasis, and it’s associated with increased disease severity and a decreased response to treatment.

A systematic review of dietary recommendations for adults who have psoriasis, published in the journal JAMA Dermatology last year, strongly recommended a reduced calorie diet for overweight and obese patients with psoriasis. Research shows when patients shed extra pounds and keep them off long term, it has a lasting impact on easing psoriasis symptoms and decreasing severity of the disease.

                                                                       (Getty Images)
Fat contributes to inflammation by releasing substances called cytokines – “so reducing fat reduces inflammation,” notes Dr. Patricia Farris, a clinical assistant professor of dermatology at Tulane University and a dermatologist in private practice in Metairie, Louisiana. “Accordingly, the current recommendation is to reduce weight by reducing calories.”

Eating Less to Maintain a Healthy Weight

One thing that research has established is that obesity increases one’s risk of developing psoriasis, and it’s associated with increased disease severity and a decreased response to treatment.

A systematic review of dietary recommendations for adults who have psoriasis, published in the journal JAMA Dermatology last year, strongly recommended a reduced calorie diet for overweight and obese patients with psoriasis. Research shows when patients shed extra pounds and keep them off long term, it has a lasting impact on easing psoriasis symptoms and decreasing severity of the disease.

Fat contributes to inflammation by releasing substances called cytokines – “so reducing fat reduces inflammation,” notes Dr. Patricia Farris, a clinical assistant professor of dermatology at Tulane University and a dermatologist in private practice in Metairie, Louisiana. “Accordingly, the current recommendation is to reduce weight by reducing calories.”

Connection to Celiac Disease

But experts say that, generally speaking, data isn’t sufficient to definitively recommend avoiding certain foods. Based on research to date, the strongest evidence supports a gluten-free diet among patients with psoriasis who also have celiac disease (an autoimmune disease in which eating gluten can damage the small intestine and affect food absorption) or a gluten sensitivity.

Psoriasis is associated with a higher risk of developing other autoimmune conditions like celiac disease. “While estimates vary, it’s felt that patients with psoriasis have about a twofold higher risk of celiac disease,” says Dr. Rajani Katta, a dermatologist and clinical assistant professor of medicine at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. “This is why dermatologists will inquire about gastrointestinal symptoms or family history and test further if needed.”

"Other recommendations have minimal supportive scientific evidence,” adds Dr. Ladan Afifi, a medical resident in the dermatology department at UCLA Health who has studied the potential role of diet in psoriasis management.

A Gluten-Free Diet Isn’t Recommended for Everyone

Some people without celiac disease also have gluten antibodies. These proteins are produced by the immune system because the body perceives gluten as a threat.

In one analysis, about 5% of patients without psoriasis had gluten antibodies, while about 14% with psoriasis had gluten antibodies. In addition, Katta points to a small study looking at about 30 psoriasis patients who had gluten antibodies. The researchers found that when study participants followed a gluten-free diet for three months, their psoriasis improved. That was documented with a measure called psoriasis area and severity index, or PASI. Those with psoriasis who didn’t have gluten antibodies had no improvement in their condition as a result of following a gluten-free diet.

While Katta says she doesn’t suggest a gluten-free diet for all patients with psoriasis, she does recommend it for those with celiac disease or gluten-free antibodies. But experts say more high quality studies, like randomized controlled trials, are still needed in this area. In fact, the JAMA Dermatology review only “weakly recommended” a gluten-free diet with those who had such markers of gluten sensitivity.

Diet Changes Shouldn't Be About Restrictions

The JAMA Dermatology review suggests it may be worth it for adults with psoriasis to try a Mediterranean diet. That includes eating two or more servings of vegetables and three or more servings of fruit daily – and having legumes, tree nuts (which include almonds) and fish or seafood three times or more a week.

Researchers also “weakly recommended” that patients with psoriatic arthritis consider vitamin D supplementation. Similarly, the review also "weakly recommended" that those with the condition who are overweight or obese try to lose weight with a low-calorie diet.

“While there are nutrition influencers on social media who design cute infographics with diets for psoriasis, elimination of specific foods really isn’t supported by available research yet,” says Julie Stefanski, a registered dietitian with Stefanski Nutrition Services in York, Pennsylvania, and a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

“Before starting an elimination diet, begin an inclusion diet. There are a few consistent factors in the research that point towards beneficial food components in immune and skin health,” Stefanski says. “One priority should be to regularly include omega-3 polyunsaturated fats from fish.” The best sources include mackerel, herring, tuna, sardines and salmon, she says.

Diets that are heart healthy like the Mediterranean diet also help protect against higher cardiovascular risk with psoriasis – which could prevent a stroke or heart attack. The Mediterranean diet is also considered an anti-inflammatory diet – which some think may be helpful in combating inflammation associated with psoriasis.

“The Mediterranean diet has many documented health benefits,” Farris says, pointing to research that suggests it may be helpful for people with psoriasis. “Accordingly, I suggest consuming more vegetables, olive oil, fruits, whole grains, legumes and fish and less meat, refined grains, processed foods and sugar.”

Experts says other tried and true eating patterns are worth trying as well, like the DASH diet (for dietary approaches to stop hypertension), which is promoted by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.

“Overall, based on our research findings to date, an anti-inflammatory eating pattern is recommended for all patients with psoriasis. There are a number of options, including the Mediterranean diet, the DASH diet and many traditional diets,” Katta says. “The key feature is an emphasis on whole foods, fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices, with less intake of highly processed foods, added sugars and refined carbohydrates.”

Alcohol in Moderation

If you consume alcohol, experts generally consider it wise to drink in moderation – that means no more than one drink per day for women or two for men.

“Unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as alcohol use and tobacco use, are both considered triggers of psoriasis,” says Dr. Kristina Callis Duffin, co-chair of the department of dermatology at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. Drinking may increase the chances of developing psoriasis or make the condition worse and lead to flare-ups of symptoms. Quitting smoking and not imbibing or cutting back on alcohol may improve psoriasis.

Treatment First

Experts emphasize that it’s important for a person with psoriasis to see a dermatologist to discuss treatment options. Lifestyle changes are a supplement to, not a replacement for, medical intervention. That includes dietary changes.

“There really is no single food or supplement that causes psoriasis (or) cures psoriasis,” Callis Duffin emphasizes. She also pushes back on the suggestion that specific food choices directly impact the condition, based on rigorous study of supposed food triggers.

But other experts stress that while more research is needed, it’s worth adopting at the very least a balanced and healthy diet. That could mean following a Mediterranean diet, for example – and in some cases, eating less overall.

https://health.usnews.com/conditions/skin-disease/psoriasis/plaque-psoriasis/articles/could-changing-your-diet-help-with-managing-psoriasis

Improving dental health and diet could help with treatment for psoriasis

From dentistry.co.uk

Improving dental health and diet could help with the treatment for psoriasis, according to a study by American dermatologists.

Psoriasis is a skin disease that causes thick, itchy patches of red skin with silvery scales.
According to the NHS, psoriasis effects around 2% of people in the UK.
The skin disease usually starts in adults under 35 years old, and affects men and women equally.

The study found psoriasis patients who rated their gum health as poor or very poor exhibited significantly more severe psoriasis symptoms than those with healthy gums.
On the other hand, patients who reported consuming fresh fruit at least once a day experienced milder psoriasis symptoms.

The study was published in the Dermatology Online Journal.
Psoriasis is caused by a problem with the immune system.

Treatment for psoriasis

‘Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease so although it often presents as red, scaly patches on the skin,’ said Benjamin Kaffenberger, a dermatologist and study lead at the Ohio State Wexner Medical Centre.
‘We know that the causes and consequences are more than skin deep
‘We’re looking for some sort of trigger that sets off the immune system.
‘Because strep throat is one of the known triggers and the microbiome of bacteria in the mouth is much more complex, that became our starting point.
‘We wondered if poor dental health could be a risk factor for psoriasis.’

Research carried out

A lifestyle and diet questionnaire was sent to 265 patients at Ohio State’s dermatology clinics.
The study surveyed 100 patients with psoriasis and 165 without the disease.
It showed poor dental and oral health is associated with those who had psoriasis.

Kaffenberger explained: ‘Patients who had more severe psoriasis were more likely to report that their gums were in worse condition than patients who didn’t have mild to moderate psoriasis in the first place.
‘Patients who had higher fruit consumption reported less significant psoriasis.’
Therefore, fruit and potentially fresh foods are an associated protective factor.

The study also reinforced data from previous studies that found family history of psoriasis, smoking and obesity were significant predictors of psoriasis.
Kaffenberger hopes to expand the study outside Ohio State’s dermatology clinics.
He suggest having dermatologists screen for dental health and counsel psoriasis patients for improved dietary health.

‘The key is to protect your gums and your mouth by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing.
‘Lifestyle changes include quitting smoking, avoiding high alcohol consumption and properly managing diabetes,’ he added.

https://www.dentistry.co.uk/2019/11/05/dental-health-diet-treatment-for-psoriasis/

Everything you need to know about psoriatic arthritis

From deccanchronicle.com/lifestyle

Psoriatic arthritis causes inflammation in and around the joints. It usually affects people who already have psoriasis, a skin condition that causes a red, silver crusted scaly rash, especially on the elbows, knees, back, buttocks, groins and scalp. In women, it can occur underneath the surface of the breasts.

However, some people develop the arthritis symptoms before psoriasis; while others will never develop the skin condition. In most people diagnosis of Psoriatic arthritis is delayed as they are focussing more on the cosmetic aspect and lack of awareness regarding the association of skin and joints.

       Some people develop the arthritis symptoms before psoriasis; while others will never develop                                          the skin condition. (Photo: Representational/Pixabay)

What are the symptoms? Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis can include:
• A red, scaly rash (psoriasis)
• Swollen, stiff and painful joints
• Sausage-like swelling of fingers ortoes (dactylitis)
• Thickening, discoloration and pitting of the nails
• Pain and swelling at the back of the heel
• Fatigue.

How is it diagnosed?
Your doctor will examine you and ask if there’s a family history of psoriasis. The skin rash can be very subtle and does not correlate with the severity of the joint disease. There are no specific blood tests available for confirming the diagnosis - it is a clinical diagnosis, blood tests help to exclude other causes like gout which can affect the toes. You may also have magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, ultrasound scans, and X-rays which can help to confirm the diagnosis.

What causes Psoriatic arthritis?
The arthritis and skin condition are both caused by inflammation. The processes of inflammation are very similar in the skin and the joints. We don’t yet know exactly what triggers the inflammation in psoriatic arthritis but is a combination of genetic and environmental factors that lead to the rapid turnover of skin cells resulting in patches of psoriasis.

Does psoriatic arthritis affect other organs?
Psoriatic arthritis doesn’t usually affect major organs such as the liver or lungs.
However, you may be more likely to develop a painful red eye. If this affects you, it’s important not to ignore it. These symptoms may be caused by a condition called uveitis, also known as iritis, which is inflammation at the front of the eye.

Treatment of psoriatic arthritis The treatment ideally should be jointly managed by a skin specialist and rheumatologist. In most cases treatment given for the skin works for joints and vice versa. The skin specialist will initially manage the skin with topical treatment which continues with the systemic treatment, light therapy, and vitamin A. Pain killers help relieve symptoms of mild joint pains while awaiting confirmation of diagnosis. Steroids could be used as an initial treatment either orally or injecting either intramuscular into joint areas affected.
There are disease modifying drugs which treat both the skin and joints. For severe cases biologic drugs are now available which work effectively.
Likewise, in damaged joints due to long-standing untreated arthritis, surgery may be recommended after disease control.

Role of exercise and diet
It is very important to include exercise as part of the routine in daily life especially when suffering from joint problems as it can help the joints to remain flexible and functional. Furthermore, it is advisable to eat a healthy diet including lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, oily fish and avoid junk food.

Take-away message: Patients with psoriatic arthritis are at more risk for cardiovascular problems including obesity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. It is advisable for regular screening by your doctor for the above conditions and early treatment for the same.

https://www.deccanchronicle.com/lifestyle/health-and-wellbeing/181019/everything-you-need-to-know-about-psoriatic-arthritis.html

Can Apple Cider Vinegar Help Psoriasis?

From everydayhealth.com

How a common kitchen condiment may relieve scalp itch and other symptoms.

People with psoriasis have several treatment options, including biologic drugs, topicals, and light therapy. But many individuals who have the autoimmune condition turn to natural remedies as an alternative or a complement to pharmaceuticals. Of the natural solutions to promote health, apple cider vinegar has become one of the more popular ones.

“I have a number of patients who take apple cider vinegar for weight loss and for gut health and digestive problems,” says Pooja DeWilde, DO, a family medicine physician at Northwestern Medicine Regional Medical Group in Huntley, Illinois. “I have heard of people using it as a topical solution for mosquito bites, beestings, and toenail fungus. I don’t know the exact mechanism for how it might work, but I think it may have some antimicrobial, immune-boosting properties.”

An Ancient Treatment for Wounds

The idea of applying vinegar to the skin as a soothing agent dates back to 420 B.C., when the Greek physician Hippocrates recommended it for healing wounds.

                                                             Olena Troshchak/iStock

The National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) specifically endorses apple cider vinegar as a treatment to help stop scalp itch related to psoriasis. Vinegar gets its name from the French vin meaning “wine” and aigre meaning “sour.” The sourness comes from acetic acid in the vinegar, which can provide relief by killing bacteria. The acid also acts as an exfoliant, removing dead layers of skin so the psoriasis is less scaly.

Murky, brown, unfiltered apple vinegar is thought to pack an especially healthy punch because it typically contains the mother culture. The “mother” is a collection of bacteria that changes the alcohol in fermenting apple juice into acetic acid. (The mother is said to be similar to the SCOBY, symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast, in the fermented tea known as kombucha.)

Dilution With Water Avoids Risk of Burns

The NPF recommends creating a one-to-one-part solution of organic vinegar and water because straight-up vinegar can cause an unpleasant burning sensation.
“People can do a lot of damage with apple cider vinegar if they’re not careful,” says Matthew Lewis, MD, a dermatologist with Stanford Health Care. “The pH [measure of acidic concentration] is around three, which is similar to lemon juice. If you leave it on your skin for too long, you can just burn — like a chemical burn. We definitely see those sorts of things in the office frequently — it just destroys the skin.”

Instead, Dr. Lewis directs patients to salicylic acid, which is a commonly available product used to help shed dead skin cells. Coal tar can also help by slowing the rapid growth of skin cells and ridding the body of dead skin.

If using a vinegar solution, the NPF advises rinsing the skin after applying it and to avoid using it if the skin is cracked or bleeding.
Beyond using vinegar on the scalp, a dilution of vinegar may be applied in a compress to soothe inflamed or weepy skin (a sign of infection), according to John Anthony, MD, a dermatologist with the Cleveland Clinic.

Does Consuming Vinegar Offer Benefits?

It may be counterintuitive, but some alternative health proponents suggest that apple cider vinegar becomes less acidic or more alkaline once inside the body. Vinegar fans believe that it improves overall gut health and the acid-alkaline balance, which may in turn help reduce inflammation.

So far, no scientific investigations have validated this. One animal study found that apple cider vinegar was ineffective as an anti-inflammatory agent. On the other hand, there is evidence the vinegar intake can have some health benefits. A study published in May 2018 in the Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine indicated that vinegar may help control blood sugar, possibly lowering diabetes risk, and a study published in August 2009 in the journal Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry showed that vinegar may reduce body weight and fat mass in obese people.

“There’s just not a lot of medical literature on the topic — more study is needed,” says Dr. Anthony.
If you do try drinking vinegar, do not take it undiluted. Potential health risks include damage to tooth enamel, burning of the lining of the oesophagus, and upset to the stomach.

Other Potential Natural and Alternative Remedies

Complementary and alternative therapies sometimes used to improve symptoms of psoriasis range from mineral water baths, acupuncture, yoga, and meditation.
Although most of these approaches are safe, you should talk to your doctor before trying any new treatment or technique.

Anthony stresses that the mainstay topical solution is not “natural” but a steroid medication.
“For whatever reason, however, some people don’t want to take medication,” he says. “I think people want options. From my standpoint, there is no danger in using apple cider vinegar, so I never advise people not to use it.”

https://www.everydayhealth.com/psoriasis/can-apple-cider-vinegar-help-psoriasis/

I got turned down from a job because of painful skin condition – but now I’ve healed it naturally

From thesun.co.uk

A MUM who was once turned down from a job because of her painful skin condition says she's shunned medicine to heal it naturally.

Laura Parish, 37, was first diagnosed with psoriasis when she was just two and by the time she was a teen it covered most of her body and face.

The primary school teacher, from Reading, Berks, has been prescribed every type of cream but nothing was able to soothe her sore skin.
Laura has tried elimination diets, UVB light therapy, creams, oils and took ciclosporin for three years.

After her daughter Eva was born in May 2016 Laura’s psoriasis spread all over her neck and chest and as a new mum she found it difficult as people would ask her if she was sunburnt.
Eight months after giving birth Laura was diagnosed with a type of arthritis that develops in people with psoriasis which can get worse over time.

Despite doctors urging her to start taking medication orally and through injections, she decided to heal her skin naturally.
She went back on her elimination diet and decided to only use natural products on her skin.

This move saw Laura’s confidence skyrocket and her arthritic pain disappeared.

                        She says she has managed to heal the painful condition naturally

                                    Credit: MDWfeatures / @morethanskindeep1

She started sharing her journey on Instagram under the handle, @morethanskindeep1 and didn’t let her skin stop her from wearing bikinis on holiday.
In June this year, Laura gave birth to her son Bernie in June and has continued spreading skin positivity online.

Recalling her experience, she said: “I don’t remember being diagnosed, but I remember it getting progressively worse the older I got.
"I used creams, ointments, lotions and anything the doctors prescribed.
"I remember sitting there every night while my mum covered my body and scalp in these.
“My hair and clothes would be greasy and it would sting until I cried. I’d scratch until I bled at night and everything was covered in flakes.

“My teenage years were filled with oils which ruined my clothes and smelt, salt solutions which continued to make me cry with pain and a diet which was so intense that it was very hard to lead a normal life.
"I couldn’t eat so many things over the years; dairy, sugar, nightshades, alcohol, caffeine, meat, gluten.
“There was a point a few years ago where all I was eating was fish, certain veg and sweet potato.
"The older I got, the more depressing it got, it really started to get me very down.
"There were points when I stopped doing it for these reasons.

                As a new mum, the condition left Laura embarrassed to speak to other parents

                                        Credit: MDWfeatures / @morethanskindeep1

“I couldn’t dress as I always wanted, I couldn’t use beauty products like other teenage girls and I grew a fringe to cover my face as much as I could.
"There was no hiding my psoriasis, it covered me head to toe, but I don’t recall hearing many negative or nasty comments.
“I was turned down for a Saturday job at a hairdresser because the psoriasis wasn’t the image they wanted.
"Looking back now I should have done something about it, there’s no way anyone could get away with that these days, but this was 20 years ago now and things were different.

"I think I was shocked but didn’t question it.
“Over the years, my psoriasis calmed down a lot and it roller-coastered between good and bad times.
"After having my daughter, it was a time when I was meeting lots of new people through NCT and baby groups and I was so conscious of my skin.
“Even more so I was conscious of my diet and how I couldn’t just go for a coffee without feeling guilty or having to resist.
"Finding clothes was miserable, I needed clothes I could breastfeed in, I had a totally new figure to get used to and on top of that, wanted clothes that covered me as much as possible and it was summer.

“The psoriasis was creeping up my chest and down my neck so totally hiding it was impossible.
"Psoriasis also causes fatigue so I’d always been tired anyway then add a baby to that it was exhausting.
"I would see eyes glance at it all the time, but no one ever really said anything. Shopkeepers would ask if I was sunburnt or had an allergy.
“Eight months after my daughter was born, I was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis. This terrified me and I found it very hard to accept to begin with.
"I had visions of me being totally disabled and bed ridden in horrendous pain for the rest of my life.

“I didn’t want to get out of bed, I definitely didn’t want to face the world. But I had no choice.
"I had a daughter and a job as a teacher so I’d have my breakdowns in private then go and face the world like nothing was wrong. But I didn’t cave to medication.”
Laura has sometimes struggled with the unpredictability of her skin flares but tiredness and stress can cause her psoriasis to appear, but she never lets it stop her from living her life.
The mum-of-two is also an ambassador for skincare company, Tropic and sells natural beauty products despite having psoriasis, something she never thought would be possible.

Fearing the flares

She credits the fact that her psoriasis has always been visible with giving herself no option but to embrace the skin she is in.
“I think I was helped by the fact that it was pretty much impossible to cover much of mine as it was on my face and neck as well as everywhere else," she said.
"Also, I hate being uncomfortable so would never cover up properly in hot weather.
"I spent a winter wearing scarves but actually found they made the psoriasis more sore.

“My hair used to get greasy from treatments so I’d tie it up which meant the psoriasis was on show but it was necessary and practical.
"I think I unconsciously thought I shouldn’t have to cover up any more than anyone else should.
“I fear the flares. When it’s calmer I forget how horrific the flares are but when it starts coming back, I remember and panic.
"But ultimately all I can do is ride the wave and get through it. I just have to be strong with myself to not let it get me down.
“I have my moments of tears and feeling very down, but I’ve always made myself get on with life, whether it be work or children.
"I’ve never missed work due to my psoriasis as I never felt it was something that warranted time off.”
Finally, Laura shared her words of advice to other psoriasis sufferers.

“I’d say not to let psoriasis define them. Don’t let it control what they choose to do in life. I always say I have it but it doesn’t have me, I have to really remind myself of this sometimes though, I’d say don’t cover up because of what others might think, cover up if you want to but not for anyone else,” she said.
“I’d also say get online and join the huge community out there on Instagram. I thought I’d be the first to start a psoriasis account and couldn’t believe there’s thousands of others like me. It’s a huge support network.
“The more people who share and show their skin will help raise awareness and make it more normal, then no one would have to hide it.”
For more information see www.instagram.com/morethanskindeep1

https://www.thesun.co.uk/fabulous/9871414/psoriasis-sufferer-job-healed-naturally/

What You Need to Know About Psoriasis

From india.com/lifestyle

A dermatologist explains key facts about psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a chronic and recurrent inflammatory skin condition caused by an overactive immune system. Incidence of psoriasis occurs with equal frequency in men and woman. Mean age of onset is 27 years of age but can range between neonates to geriatrics. Psoriasis is an inherited skin disorder. Dr Pallavi Sule, dermatologist and aesthetic physician explains, “The symptoms of Psoriasis, are red inflamed patches with thick silvery white scales. The areas involved can vary from localised to generalised patches. But the disease has a predilection for the scalp, nails, extensors of the limbs, umbilical region and sacrum. Subjective symptoms like itching, burning may be present and may cause extreme discomfort to the patient.”
Here are the different types of psoriasis, treatment, diagnosis, triggers, treatment and diet.

TYPES:
· Guttate psoriasis: Typical coin like or water drops like lesions of size 2-5mm in diameter appear as an abrupt eruption following acute infection (respiratory infections). The age group affected is generally below 30 years.

· Pustular psoriasis: Lakes of pus develop on palms of hands and soles of feet. The patient is frequently ill with fever, redness of skin and cachexia.
· Inverse psoriasis: This variant selectively involves the folds, recesses and flexor surfaces that is ears, axillae, groins, inflammatory folds, navel, lips, web spaces.
· Napkin psoriasis: Psoriasis in the diaper area, affects the infants, ages 2months to 8 months of age. Bright red patches in the diaper area, which respond to creams but psoriasis may appear in adulthood.
· Psoriatric arthritis: The variant affects the joints of the fingers and feet which may result in permanent deformity.
· Erythrodermic psoriasis: Patients with psoriasis may develop generalised erythroderma

COURSE: The course of psoriasis is unpredictable. The onset may be sudden and widespread. It usually begins on the scalp or elbows with symmetrical involvement of the body parts.

TRIGGERS: Psoriasis is a majorly an inherited inflammatory skin disorder. Few triggers are respiratory infection caused by streptococci bacteria, stress, drugs like beta-blockers, anti-malarials, lipid-lowering drugs, cold climatic conditions.

TREATMENT: Psoriasis is treated according to the extent and severity of the disease. Local applications of steroid-based creams and ointments are recommended for limited plaque psoriasis. At times keratolytic agents like salicylic acid can be included. An ultraviolet light or phototherapy is another modality of treatment. For generalised psoriasis oral steroids, methotrexate, cyclosporine or biologic agents can be included.

DIET: Including inti inflammatory fish oils and polyunsaturated fatty acids helps.

https://www.india.com/lifestyle/what-you-need-to-know-about-psoriasis-3756184/

Psoriasis Awareness Month: Top 10 questions about the skin condition answered

From her.ie/health

August is Psoriasis Awareness Month.

The month marks a series of campaigns to raise awareness about the common skin condition and to provide support for the millions of people who suffer from it around the world.
According to the Irish Skin Foundation, at least 73,000 people across the country are living with psoriasis.

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And understandably, plenty of those people have been Google searching the condition over the years - to try and educate themselves, to find treatments, and even to figure out if they have it.

So, in order to learn more about psoriasis, we turned to Bupa UK's dermatology clinical lead Dr Stephanie Munn. 

She filled us in on all of the answers to some of the most common queries about the skin condition.

1. What is psoriasis? 
Psoriasis is a skin condition that a person can develop at any age.
It is a chronic illness that affects a person's skin cells and causes them to grow faster than a regular rate, often leading to red, crusty patches on the skin.

According to Dr Munn, the condition occurs in around two in every one hundred people in the UK.
"For people without psoriasis, skin cells shed their top layer and replace themselves with new ones around every twenty-three days," she says.
"If you have psoriasis, this skin cell cycle occurs at a much more frequent rate."

2. What are the symptoms of psoriasis? 
There are many different kinds of psoriasis that come with a variety of symptoms, but most of them tend to be characterised by thickened red patches on the skin.
These patches are called plaques and vary in size and location on the body.

3. What helps psoriasis? 

Although psoriasis cannot be cured entirely, there are many different treatments and medicines available to effectively manage the symptoms.

Prescribed creams, shampoos, tablets, and injections can all ease the symptoms of the condition, depending on what type of psoriasis a person has.
Dr Munn also recommends some over-the-counter creams that can help with the condition - especially when applied right after a shower or bath.

4. Is psoriasis painful? 
The condition can be painful during a particularly bad flare-up, causing changes to the skin that could lead to itching or sores.
These changes are generally most painful when on the scalp or near the groin.
More severe cases, called plaque psoriasis, can cause the skin around a person's joints to crack and bleed.

5. Can psoriasis spread? 

No, psoriasis is not contagious so it cannot be spread from one person to another.

However, a person with psoriasis could find that the infection spreads from one part of their own body to another.

6. What is psoriasis caused by? 
Dr Munn says that although there is "no definitive answer" as to why some people develop psoriasis and others don't, the condition can be triggered by environmental factors and certain genes.
However, if a person's family member has psoriasis, it doesn’t necessarily mean that that person will develop it too.

7. Can psoriasis go away? 
No, not entirely.

There is no out-right cure for psoriasis which means that a person who suffers from the condition will have it for the rest of their life.
However, sometimes a person may not have any symptoms and other times they will be experience flare-ups, causing the plaques to return to the skin.

8. Is psoriasis a fungus? 
No, it's not.
Dr Munn says that although fungal infections can cause scaly plaques, they tend to appear on different parts of the body and are generally a lot smaller.
"Psoriasis is caused by inflammation and does not occur due to an infection from a fungus," she says.
"Furthermore, the two conditions have two separate causes: fungal infections are contagious; psoriasis isn’t."

9. Is psoriasis an autoimmune disease? 
Yes, psoriasis is caused by an overactive immune system, which leads to skin inflammation and skin tissue growing at a faster rate than usual.
Dr Munn says that the condition is a result of the immune system malfunctioning, where it "can't distinguish between your own skin cells and other cells that could make you ill, i.e. antigens like bacteria and viruses.
"This results in your body mistakenly trying to protect you from your own skin cells, which causes the inflammation."

10. Can stress cause psoriasis? 
While stress cannot cause psoriasis, it can lead to flare-ups in people who already have the condition.
"For others who may have a tendency towards the condition, it could cause the symptoms to present themselves," says Dr Munn.
"Along with stress, there are other external triggers that may cause a flare-up, including smoking, drinking too much alcohol and throat infections."
You can find out more about psoriasis, and the different treatments available, here. 

https://www.her.ie/health/psoriasis-awareness-month-478255