Dealing With Chronic Skin Conditions? Expert Explains Ways To Manage Them

From onlymyhealth.com

Did you know there are skin conditions that can persist throughout a person's life and cannot be cured? Skin conditions can be chronic and have varying aetiology. Many of them, such as psoriasis, vitiligo, atopic dermatitis, and rosacea can have a genetic predisposition. Not only this, environmental and lifestyle factors significantly influence the impact of these persistent skin issues on quality of life. We spoke to our expert Dr Sonali Kohli, Consultant Dermatology, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospitals, Mumbai, who explained chronic skin conditions and how to manage them. 

According to the Indian Dermatology Online Journal, skin conditions are a serious health issue that a large section of the Indian population suffers from. Patients suffering from skin diseases may experience severe emotional and psychological distress that surpasses the medical consequences.

According to a 2012 study, normal skin serves as a primary physiological defence against the majority of microorganisms. However, individuals suffering from chronic skin conditions often experience compromised epidermal barrier function, potentially leading to a decrease in antimicrobial peptide levels. 

Consequently, patients with chronic skin diseases may face heightened susceptibility to severe infections, necessitating prolonged courses of antibiotic therapy and yielding poorer prognosis compared to those with healthy skin. 

How To Manage Chronic Skin Conditions

Tips To Manage Psoriasis 

Psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune disease, manifests as red, scaly patches on the skin due to accelerated skin cell growth. This condition can cause discomfort, itchiness, and emotional distress. Dr Kohli listed ways to manage psoriasis as follows:

• Moisturise: Keeping the skin hydrated can help reduce itching and irritation associated with psoriasis.
• Topical Treatments: Corticosteroids, retinoids, and vitamin D analogues are commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation and slow skin cell growth.
• Phototherapy: Controlled exposure to Ultraviolet (UV) light can help alleviate symptoms by reducing inflammation and slowing skin cell turnover.
• Systemic Medications: In severe cases, oral or injectable medications, such as biologics or immunosuppressants, may be prescribed to manage symptoms.
• Lifestyle Changes: Avoiding triggers, such as stress, alcohol, smoking, and certain medications can help minimise flare-ups.

Tips To Manage Rosacea

Rosacea, on the other hand, is a chronic inflammatory disorder characterised by facial redness, visible blood vessels, and in some cases, papules and pustules resembling acne. Here are some ways to manage this condition, as listed by the expert:

• Gentle Skincare: Use mild, non-irritating cleansers and moisturisers to soothe sensitive skin.
• Sun Protection: Protecting the skin from UV exposure with broad-spectrum sunscreen and wearing protective clothing can help prevent flare-ups.
• Topical Treatments: Prescription creams containing antibiotics, azelaic acid, or metronidazole can help reduce redness and inflammation.
• Oral Medications: In more severe cases, oral antibiotics or isotretinoin may be prescribed to control symptoms.
• Trigger Avoidance: Identifying and avoiding triggers, such as spicy foods, alcohol, hot beverages, and extreme temperatures can help manage symptoms.

Tips To Maintain Other Skin Conditions

• Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, and stay hydrated.
• Practice Stress Management: Stress can exacerbate skin conditions, so incorporating relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga can be beneficial.
• Gentle Skincare Routine: Avoid harsh scrubs and abrasive products, and opt for gentle cleansers and moisturisers suitable for your skin type.
• Regular Skin Checks: Schedule regular visits with your dermatologist for skin screenings and to monitor any changes in your condition.
• Stay Informed: Keep yourself informed about your condition and treatment options, and don't hesitate to ask questions or seek support from healthcare professionals or support groups.

Bottom line

Dr Kohli concluded, “By understanding the nature of lifelong skin conditions like psoriasis and rosacea and following a comprehensive management plan, you can effectively manage symptoms and maintain healthy and radiant skin throughout your lives.”

[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your dermatologist if you notice any skin issues to get the necessary treatment.]

https://www.onlymyhealth.com/amp/what-are-chronic-skin-conditions-and-how-to-manage-them-1712665492