From timesofindia.indiatimes.com
Often mistaken as just a skin condition, Psoriasis has been neglected and vastly misunderstood. Did you know that roughly 2.5 crore Indians suffer from this chronic progressive condition? Despite of these alarming numbers, most people are either ignorant of the condition, or falsely believe it to be a contagious disease. This leads Psoriasis patients to deal with not just physical suffering, but also mental instability social seclusion, and loss of confidence.
Traditionally, lack of knowledge has barred patients from getting professional advice, leading to the patient suffering because of poor disease management. It also categorically led patients away from newer and better treatment options that could have offered them relief and peace of mind. Over a period, it has been proven that with the right choice of treatment combined with adherence to treatment can stop the pain, agony and help the patient lead a more confident and happy life.
Using new therapies like biologics has proved life changing in some patients as they helped control their symptoms and worked better than many other treatments. But remember, effectiveness of any treatment primarily depends on the patient’s discipline and regularity in the treatment. As per the National Psoriasis Foundation, even if initial symptoms of psoriasis are not very severe, it is recommended that anyone living with psoriasis should consult a dermatologist regularly. It can help one gain control of their condition at the right time with the help of the right treatment plan customised as per the severity of the symptoms and the condition, overall health history and personalised responses to individual treatment options.
It is important for all of us to be aware of these facts as it will help psoriasis patients get the care, respect, and acceptance that they have missed in the past. Therefore, let’s dig deep into psoriasis and know the truth with Myths vs. Facts about Psoriasis:
- Myth: Psoriasis is simply a skin condition and is caused by poor hygiene
Fact: Psoriasis has nothing to do with hygiene. It is a genetically transferred disorder, i.e., it runs in the family. It is also not a simple skin condition that will heal by itself. You need to consult a dermatologist and follow recommended treatment plan to avoid flare ups.
- Myth: There is no treatment for psoriasis
Fact: In Psoriasis, adopting a holistic treatment plan depending on the severity of the condition is the key. Dermatologists can recommend medicines best suited depending on the patient’s condition considering the recent advancements in psoriasis treatment. Newer medicines like biologics are effective and safe and can make skin clearer. Relief from flares restores quality of life and self-confidence.
- Myth: Psoriasis is contagious
Fact: The thick, red, scaly patches of skin and the cracks make psoriasis look like an infection or a contagious disease. This leads to the common reaction of distancing from the person with contempt affecting patient’s confidence and mental health with overall impact on quality of life. However, the fact is that psoriasis is NOT contagious and does not spread by touch or proximity.
- Myth: Psoriasis is self-limiting & may not be treated
Fact: Visible discoloured skin patches & scales indicate psoriasis, but they also indicate inflammation inside the body. Effective treatment of psoriasis not only manages skin symptoms but may also help reduce inflammation inside the body that could lead to other diseases like psoriatic arthritis. That is why treating psoriasis is important.
With Psoriasis myths busted, let us all offer care and respect to all psoriasis patients. Living with Psoriasis can be challenging, but with the right information, right support and right treatment can make it easier to cope with this condition and help psoriasis patients focus on those aspects of life that make them happier and confident.
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