In some patients, the chronic inflammatory skin diseases psoriasis and
eczema are similar in appearance. Up to now, dermatologists have
therefore had to base their decision on which treatment should be
selected on their own experience and an examination of tissue samples. A
team of researchers has now analyzed the molecular processes that occur
in both diseases and discovered crucial differences. This has enabled
them for the first time to gain a detailed understanding of the ways in
which the respective disease process occurs.
A better understanding of molecular processes
"Both diseases have a highly complex appearance, which often varies
widely from one patient to another," says Dr. Stefanie Eyerich, who
heads the Specific Immunology working group at the Institute of Allergy
Research (IAF) at the Helmholtz Zentrum München. "This has led previous
attempts to compare their molecular signature to fail." In this study,
the researchers identified 24 patients who were suffering simultaneously
from psoriasis and eczema and in each analyzed at the molecular level
the characteristic differences they demonstrated between psoriasis and
eczema compared to clinically unremarkable skin.
"We were thus able to drastically reduce random genetic or
environmental influences and gain a detailed picture of the development
of these two diseases," explains Prof. Fabian Theis of the Institute of
Computational Biology (ICB) at the Helmholtz Zentrum München.
Paving the way for personalized medicine
In recent years, many new specific treatments have been developed for
psoriasis and eczema. However, in each case, these are only effective
for one or other of the two diseases. And they are very expensive: one
such treatment generally costs several tens of thousands of euros per
year, per patient. The ability to make an exact diagnosis therefore has a
considerable economic impact.
If it cannot be clearly determined on presentation which of the two
diseases is involved, the newly developed diagnostic tool will help to
differentiate them. It involves a test which compares samples of
diseased and healthy skin and is concluded within one day. The
researchers have now filed a patent application for it.
The procedure, moreover, marks the first step towards the
introduction of personalized medicine also for chronic inflammatory skin
diseases. "Whereas this is practiced increasingly in oncology, for
example in the form of mutation analyses and the subsequent decision in
favor of the best individual treatment option, it is not common in the
case of inflammatory skin diseases," says Kilian Eyerich of the Clinic
and Polyclinic for Dermatology at the Technical University of Munich.
The researchers plan to purse this path with a view to characterizing
even more precisely the molecular processes involved in inflammatory
skin diseases and combining them with clinical information, such as the
choice of certain treatments. In this way, their goal is to determine
the best possible treatment option for each individual patient.
Further information
*Psoriasis is a non-contagious, inflammatory skin disease, and it can
also be a systemic disease that affects other organs. It generally
presents as very flaky patches of skin varying in size from spots to
larger areas the size of one's palms (frequently on the knees, the
elbows and on the scalp, and also on the anus) -- often with severe
itching as well as nail changes. Worldwide about 125 million people
suffer from this disease. In Germany it affects about two million
people.
**Eczema is a skin disease that presents as a non-infectious
inflammatory skin reaction. Eczema can be triggered by different
factors. It is characterized by a typical sequence of skin reactions
(reddening of the skin, blistering, weeping, scabbing, scaling).
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/07/140710081210.htm
Thursday, 28 August 2014
Saturday, 23 August 2014
Reducing stress may help lead to clearer skin
Anyone
who's had a pimple form right before an important event may wonder if
stress caused the break out. While commonly linked anecdotally, proving
the relationship between stress and inflammatory skin conditions, such
as acne, psoriasis and rosacea, is another matter.
"Nearly everyone has some form of stress in their life, so it's
difficult to determine whether stress can actually make the skin's
appearance worse," said board-certified dermatologist Richard D.
Granstein, MD, FAAD, the George W. Hambrick Jr., professor and chairman
of the department of dermatology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New
York. "However, it's been known for a long time that the nervous system,
which processes our stress, has an impact on conditions such as
psoriasis."
Dr. Granstein discusses the latest research on the impact stress has on inflammatory skin conditions and his thoughts on how this research could change treatment options.
How does stress play a role in inflammatory skin conditions? Dr. Granstein said research linking the nervous system and the skin has long been understood. "If you interrupt the nerves' path to an area of a patient's skin affected by psoriasis, the psoriasis improves," said Dr. Granstein. "In addition, the condition improves if you inject local anesthetic into psoriasis patches. This information strongly suggests that nerves play a role in how psoriasis operates."
Dr. Granstein notes that animal studies have demonstrated that stress can make inflammatory skin conditions worse. In a Japanese study , mice genetically prone to develop a rash similar to the inflammatory skin condition atopic dermatitis did so when stressed, while mice that were not exposed to stress did not develop the rash.
Dr. Granstein said experimental data support the idea that the nervous system and stress affect inflammatory skin conditions in humans. Many types of cells in the skin, including immune cells and endothelial cells (cells that line blood vessels), can be regulated by neuropeptides and neurotransmitters, which are chemicals released by the skin's nerve endings. Stress can result in the skin's nerve endings releasing an increased level of these chemicals. When this occurs, it can affect how and at what level our body responds to many important functions, such as sensation and control of blood flow, and can contribute to the symptoms of stress that we feel. In addition, the release of these chemicals can lead to inflammation of the skin.
"If we could block specific steps in certain pathways between the nervous system and the skin -- without impacting the whole body -- we would likely have new ways to prevent or treat some skin disorders," said Dr. Granstein. "We're gaining a greater understanding of the mechanisms underlying many skin conditions, which will help us develop new therapies."
Has stress been shown to impact the skin in other ways? While commonly believed, Dr. Granstein said research has not proven that stress causes skin aging.
When combined with exposure to ultraviolet rays, Dr. Granstein noted that animal studies have shown that stress could have an impact on the development of skin cancer. "When exposed to ultraviolet radiation, stressed mice developed skin cancers more quickly than mice that were not exposed to stress," he said.
How does current research impact how people with inflammatory skin conditions are treated? Dr. Granstein said more research needs to be done to further understand the role of the nervous system and stress on inflammatory skin conditions, especially since other factors play a role, including genetics. He encourages people with inflammatory skin conditions to tell their dermatologist if they believe stress is impacting their condition. They can experiment with stress reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or tai chi, but they should continue their treatment plan as prescribed by their dermatologist.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/08/140807103642.htm
Dr. Granstein discusses the latest research on the impact stress has on inflammatory skin conditions and his thoughts on how this research could change treatment options.
How does stress play a role in inflammatory skin conditions? Dr. Granstein said research linking the nervous system and the skin has long been understood. "If you interrupt the nerves' path to an area of a patient's skin affected by psoriasis, the psoriasis improves," said Dr. Granstein. "In addition, the condition improves if you inject local anesthetic into psoriasis patches. This information strongly suggests that nerves play a role in how psoriasis operates."
Dr. Granstein notes that animal studies have demonstrated that stress can make inflammatory skin conditions worse. In a Japanese study , mice genetically prone to develop a rash similar to the inflammatory skin condition atopic dermatitis did so when stressed, while mice that were not exposed to stress did not develop the rash.
Dr. Granstein said experimental data support the idea that the nervous system and stress affect inflammatory skin conditions in humans. Many types of cells in the skin, including immune cells and endothelial cells (cells that line blood vessels), can be regulated by neuropeptides and neurotransmitters, which are chemicals released by the skin's nerve endings. Stress can result in the skin's nerve endings releasing an increased level of these chemicals. When this occurs, it can affect how and at what level our body responds to many important functions, such as sensation and control of blood flow, and can contribute to the symptoms of stress that we feel. In addition, the release of these chemicals can lead to inflammation of the skin.
"If we could block specific steps in certain pathways between the nervous system and the skin -- without impacting the whole body -- we would likely have new ways to prevent or treat some skin disorders," said Dr. Granstein. "We're gaining a greater understanding of the mechanisms underlying many skin conditions, which will help us develop new therapies."
Has stress been shown to impact the skin in other ways? While commonly believed, Dr. Granstein said research has not proven that stress causes skin aging.
When combined with exposure to ultraviolet rays, Dr. Granstein noted that animal studies have shown that stress could have an impact on the development of skin cancer. "When exposed to ultraviolet radiation, stressed mice developed skin cancers more quickly than mice that were not exposed to stress," he said.
How does current research impact how people with inflammatory skin conditions are treated? Dr. Granstein said more research needs to be done to further understand the role of the nervous system and stress on inflammatory skin conditions, especially since other factors play a role, including genetics. He encourages people with inflammatory skin conditions to tell their dermatologist if they believe stress is impacting their condition. They can experiment with stress reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or tai chi, but they should continue their treatment plan as prescribed by their dermatologist.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/08/140807103642.htm
Tuesday, 22 April 2014
Psoriasis On The Breast Might Be Cancer
The rare breast cancer disease - Paget's disease (Paget's disease of the nipple or Mammary Paget's disease) is often confused with the two common skin conditions eczema and psoriasis. All which are very similar, and which often force doctors to send their patients to specialists for correct diagnosis.
However, there are certain detectable differences between both Paget's disease and other skin conditions that many women can look for when self-checking the breasts for cancer. Usually common skin conditions that affect the breasts are nothing to be worried about; however, with Paget's disease, it is different.
1. Eczema - is a relatively common skin complain; although, it is considered a chronic inflammatory condition of the skin that consists of dry skin with red patches, together with an often itchy sensation that tends to provoke the condition to become worse when scratched (eczema rarely affects the nipple).
2. Psoriasis - is similar to eczema, but with patches of raised skin that are usually red in color, together with thick silvery scales (often considered a more hereditary disease [one in every two psoriasis cases is usually hereditary]) that appears on the skin (doctors are still unable to explain what causes it).
3. Paget's disease - can affect both men and women (men in more extreme cases), and is considered a rather deadly form of cancer. Not only is the disease dangerous in itself, but 50% of women who suffer from it are also diagnosed with having one or more breast tumors (ductal carcinoma in-situ, or invasive breast cancer [stages I - III]) within the same breast where the disease is present.
Symptoms - are usually in the form of a red scaly rash that affects the nipple (an extension to the areola [the dark skin circle around the nipple] may often be present too) that may itch or burn. With Paget's disease - malignant cells are usually present in the epidermis (the surface layer of skin) of both the areola, and the nipple (malignant cells may be found either singularly or formed in small groups).
Also an inverted nipple (pulled inwards) together with a nipple discharge are both common signs that a rash is more than just a common skin complaint. However, in comparison with the disease and more common skin complaints, it usually only affects one breast (most skin complains affect the two breasts).
The three main dangers of Paget's disease are as follows:
1. Is because Paget's disease is so similar to both eczema and psoriasis; it may well get mis-diagnosed.
2. It is because of the presence of malignant (cancerous) cells.
3. Around 50% of women sufferers may also be diagnosed with tumors of the breast.
Note: All three of these dangers may result in either a woman losing a breast, or becoming just another statistic of breast cancer fatality. Regular self-checks are seen prudent for early diagnosis of breast cancer. Any doubt (even minor) over anything unusual found: within, on, or around (the nipple area) the breast, being put to rest by an early consultation with either a doctor or health adviser.
Philip is a Freelance Writer, Author, and Owner of Cancer Cry. He was born in Oxfordshire, England; however, today he lives in Mexico where he has been based for many years writing about cancer and other health related issues. If you would like to read more of his articles, check out his blogsite - http://www.cancercry.com Thank you for reading Philip's articles!
Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8329160
Monday, 24 March 2014
Scalp Psoriasis
What is scalp psoriasis?
What is the cause of scalp psoriasis?
What are topical treatments and home remedies for scalp psoriasis?
The most important consideration in treating scalp psoriasis is getting an effective medication into the skin. Both the hair and any scale covering the disease is an impediment to treatment. Removal of the scale in a nontraumatic fashion is very important. This can be accomplished by washing the hair with a shampoo frequently. Using tar, selenium, or salicylic acid-containing shampoos can be helpful. This may have to be done at least twice a day initially if the scale is sufficiently thick. Gently rubbing the scale with the fingertips and not the nails is important.It should be appreciated that scaling is not due to dryness but to the excessive production of the horny layer of the skin. Occasionally it may be necessary cover the scalp overnight with mineral oil. To avoid an unpleasant mess, it is necessary to cover the scalp with a shower cap or swim cap. With moderate or severe scalp disease, the addition of a topical steroid is often required. The strength of the steroid would depend on the severity of the condition. The type of vehicle (lotion, solution, or foam) depends on physician and patient preference. It is important to remember that the medication must get past the hair in order to reach the scalp skin. Occasionally other medications may be of benefit, such as topical calcipotriene (Dovonex, Sorilux) in a lotion or foam form.
http://www.medicinenet.com/scalp_psoriasis/page3.htm
Sunday, 16 March 2014
Daily Tips for Easing Psoriasis
By Anne L. Fritz
Psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune condition marked by white, silvery, or red patches of flaking skin, can be itchy, painful, and difficult to manage. Everything from the temperature of your shower to the fit of your clothing can trigger a reaction, so it’s important to take care to prevent and treat your outbreaks, also known as flares. Read on for advice from dermatologist Jessica Wu, MD, Everyday Health's skin and beauty expert.
Showers and Baths for People With Psoriasis
Showering and bathing can improve psoriasis lesions by softening and hydrating the thick, scaly patches, says Dr. Wu, but staying in the water too long can dry out your skin and lead to more itching and flaking. She advises limiting showers and baths to ten minutes and using lukewarm water, because hot water increases blood flow to the skin, which can make psoriasis plaques more red and irritated. It is also important to use a non-irritating soap. Dr Wu recommends using a body wash instead of bar soap, which can be drying. She recommends Aveeno Active Naturals Daily Moisturizing Body Wash, which contains oatmeal proteins and lipids to help soothe and hydrate scaly skin.
Moisturizer for People With Psoriasis
Applying moisturizer after a shower or bath helps lock in hydration and minimizes the flaking of psoriatic scales. Dr. Wu advises patients to pat dry after a shower — rubbing can irritate skin — and use a moisturizer with rich emollients, such as glycerin and shea butter. Dr. Wu suggests trying Olay Body Quench Mousse in the morning, because it absorbs quickly, and the heavier Olay Body Quench Body Lotion in the evening.
Clothing for People With Psoriasis
Since psoriasis is often itchy, it's best for those with the condition to avoid clothes made with wool and synthetic fibers, which can trap heat and further irritate skin that's already inflamed, says Dr. Wu. Wear looser-fitting, soft clothing made of lightweight natural fibers such as cotton, linen, and bamboo, which wick away sweat and won't rub against irritated skin. If you're experiencing lots of flaking, stick to lighter colors, which help to hide the flakes. Some people with psoriasis are sensitive to bleach and/or fabric softener, so it's best for them to avoid these products or run clothes and sheets through an extra rinse cycle.
Diet, Exercise and Stress Management for Psoriasis
A high BMI (25 or higher) is associated with an increased incidence of psoriatic outbreaks, so this is another important reason to eat nutritiously, exercise, and maintain a healthy body weight, says Wu. As for specific foods that may ease or aggravate psoriasis, the jury is still out. People may report that omega-3 fatty acids seem to improve their psoriasis, but the evidence so far is inconclusive. Wu suggests keeping a food journal to look for possible links between specific foods and changes in the condition of your skin. One item proven to aggravate psoriasis: alcohol. Those with psoriasis should consider cutting it out entirely during an outbreak.
Stress plays a major role in the occurrence of psoriatic outbreaks, so it's especially important for those with psoriasis to keep it in check. The exact reason is unknown, but stress hormones may stimulate an already overactive immune system and can increase itching, says Dr. Wu. Meditation, yoga, and acupuncture are all effective stress relievers. Although the scientific evidence of the effect of these practices on psoriasis is mixed, some patients have reported that they are helpful.
Smoking, too, aggravates psoriasis, which is yet another reason to quit.
Sun Exposure for People With Psoriasis
Sunlight can be an effective treatment for psoriasis, says Dr. Wu, because it contains ultraviolet B (UVB) rays, which have been shown to suppress inflammation in the skin. It is best to receive phototherapy treatments in the safety of a doctor's office. These treatments are time-consuming, however, which makes them impractical for many people. As a substitute, it's okay to get some natural sunlight, but limit your sun exposure to no more than five to ten minutes at a time, two to three times a week, cautions Wu. It's extremely important to avoid getting sunburned, as a sunburn can worsen existing plaques and trigger new outbreaks. Those with psoriasis should always discuss sun exposure and phototherapy treatments with their doctor first; certain medications can actually increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun.
http://www.everydayhealth.com/psoriasis/managing/tips/daily-tips-for-easing-psoriasis.aspx
Psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune condition marked by white, silvery, or red patches of flaking skin, can be itchy, painful, and difficult to manage. Everything from the temperature of your shower to the fit of your clothing can trigger a reaction, so it’s important to take care to prevent and treat your outbreaks, also known as flares. Read on for advice from dermatologist Jessica Wu, MD, Everyday Health's skin and beauty expert.
Showers and Baths for People With Psoriasis
Showering and bathing can improve psoriasis lesions by softening and hydrating the thick, scaly patches, says Dr. Wu, but staying in the water too long can dry out your skin and lead to more itching and flaking. She advises limiting showers and baths to ten minutes and using lukewarm water, because hot water increases blood flow to the skin, which can make psoriasis plaques more red and irritated. It is also important to use a non-irritating soap. Dr Wu recommends using a body wash instead of bar soap, which can be drying. She recommends Aveeno Active Naturals Daily Moisturizing Body Wash, which contains oatmeal proteins and lipids to help soothe and hydrate scaly skin.
Moisturizer for People With Psoriasis
Applying moisturizer after a shower or bath helps lock in hydration and minimizes the flaking of psoriatic scales. Dr. Wu advises patients to pat dry after a shower — rubbing can irritate skin — and use a moisturizer with rich emollients, such as glycerin and shea butter. Dr. Wu suggests trying Olay Body Quench Mousse in the morning, because it absorbs quickly, and the heavier Olay Body Quench Body Lotion in the evening.
Clothing for People With Psoriasis
Since psoriasis is often itchy, it's best for those with the condition to avoid clothes made with wool and synthetic fibers, which can trap heat and further irritate skin that's already inflamed, says Dr. Wu. Wear looser-fitting, soft clothing made of lightweight natural fibers such as cotton, linen, and bamboo, which wick away sweat and won't rub against irritated skin. If you're experiencing lots of flaking, stick to lighter colors, which help to hide the flakes. Some people with psoriasis are sensitive to bleach and/or fabric softener, so it's best for them to avoid these products or run clothes and sheets through an extra rinse cycle.
Diet, Exercise and Stress Management for Psoriasis
A high BMI (25 or higher) is associated with an increased incidence of psoriatic outbreaks, so this is another important reason to eat nutritiously, exercise, and maintain a healthy body weight, says Wu. As for specific foods that may ease or aggravate psoriasis, the jury is still out. People may report that omega-3 fatty acids seem to improve their psoriasis, but the evidence so far is inconclusive. Wu suggests keeping a food journal to look for possible links between specific foods and changes in the condition of your skin. One item proven to aggravate psoriasis: alcohol. Those with psoriasis should consider cutting it out entirely during an outbreak.
Stress plays a major role in the occurrence of psoriatic outbreaks, so it's especially important for those with psoriasis to keep it in check. The exact reason is unknown, but stress hormones may stimulate an already overactive immune system and can increase itching, says Dr. Wu. Meditation, yoga, and acupuncture are all effective stress relievers. Although the scientific evidence of the effect of these practices on psoriasis is mixed, some patients have reported that they are helpful.
Smoking, too, aggravates psoriasis, which is yet another reason to quit.
Sun Exposure for People With Psoriasis
Sunlight can be an effective treatment for psoriasis, says Dr. Wu, because it contains ultraviolet B (UVB) rays, which have been shown to suppress inflammation in the skin. It is best to receive phototherapy treatments in the safety of a doctor's office. These treatments are time-consuming, however, which makes them impractical for many people. As a substitute, it's okay to get some natural sunlight, but limit your sun exposure to no more than five to ten minutes at a time, two to three times a week, cautions Wu. It's extremely important to avoid getting sunburned, as a sunburn can worsen existing plaques and trigger new outbreaks. Those with psoriasis should always discuss sun exposure and phototherapy treatments with their doctor first; certain medications can actually increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun.
http://www.everydayhealth.com/psoriasis/managing/tips/daily-tips-for-easing-psoriasis.aspx
Friday, 7 March 2014
Psoriasis Help Organisation
Welcome to the Psoriasis Help Organisation, otherwise known as PHO. This is a web site dedicated to helping people suffering from the Chronic Skin Disease Psoriasis. This site contains information about Treatments, Handy Tips for living with the Psoriasis and other topics. This is a privately owned site (not a charity), run and administered by psoriasis sufferers, for psoriasis sufferers.
We are not medical professionals, just enthusiastic amateurs, with a goal to provide an informative and friendly environment to learn about Psoriasis and discuss topics with others in similar situations. The primary idea for this site is to provide a discussion forum. A place where fellow Psoriasis sufferers can exchange views and advice on how to live with and treat Psoriasis.
There are many types of psoriasis including Guttate, Plaque, Pustular, Psoriatic Arthritis and Flexural Psoriasis which can affect most areas of the body including the Scalp, Genitals and Nails, both fingernails and toenails. We have some Pictures of Psoriasis which show most of the different types of psoriasis and locations on the body which it can appear. See the menu link on the left.
We also have information on many different types of treatment, Including PUVA, UVA, UVB, Biological, Systemic, Steroid and Non-Steroid based psoriasis treatments. Many of these psoriasis treatments are discussed in greater detail in the Psoriasis Help Forum.
Click on "The Forum" Link to enter the forum
Please use the forum to ask questions about Psoriasis that you would like answered, express views that you have regarding Psoriasis and discuss treatments that you have used or are interested in using. We encourage you to talk about anything that you feel may be beneficial to others and to become part of the friendly community that we have created. Psoriasis can be an isolating, depressing disease and it often helps to discuss your feelings with others that really understand. You are not alone.
http://www.psoriasis-help.org.uk
Wednesday, 5 March 2014
Psoriasis - Take It Seriously
By James Daniel Smith
Psoriasis can be defined as an inveterate, non-communicable and persistent skin problem which is illustrated by thick patches of red over the skin which is covered with white scales. It spreads to all over the body unless proper treatment is done at the right time. The disease causes patches of various colours ranging from red to white on the skin. It is a very embarrassing problem as people tend to look ugly while suffering from this disease. Various kinds of treatment help to keep the disease under control. It can affect various body parts which include the scalp, genital region and nails.
Causes of Psoriasis • Psoriasis normally occurs when the immune system of a person's body tends to overreact. • In many cases, psoriasis has been found to be hereditary as the disease has been passed from one generation to the next. • The condition can aggravate in times of stress, infection and extreme weather conditions. It becomes really difficult to bear the flare-ups. • Scientists have found smoking to be a very important cause for psoriasis to occur. • However the disease is not at all contagious.
Symptoms and diagnosis of Psoriasis • Initially, rash takes place in patches of skin and causes scaling of skin to take place. It becomes very uncomfortable to bear them. • The joints in various parts of the body become swollen. This is very painful. • The nails can be affected due to this disease and that is another very important symptom. • Usually the doctors diagnose this skin disease just by inspecting the patches on the skin. • In order to eliminate chances of a fungal infection, a KOH test is performed on the skin. • However, there is no need to conduct any special test to diagnose this disease.
Treatment of Psoriasis The treatments of this disease are normally performed by the patient himself at his home. The doctors instruct the patient to take certain care. The patients just need to follow those instructions. • The main intention during the treatment is always keeping the skin moist. Various kinds of lotions and creams are prescribed to do so. • The patients are advised not to expose the skin to the ultraviolet rays of the sun. • The crusts of the patches can be gently peeled off after application of the lotions for a period of time. This helps in faster recovery from this disease. • Certain herbal skin medicines can be applied. However the patient should test which product suits him the best and use that product. • Any kind of injury to the skin or infections must be avoided at all costs. Psoriasis is thus a very serious disease and treatment must be started as soon as the disease is diagnosed. The procedures available for treating Psoriasis should be employed immediately after the appearance of embarrassing patches on the skin. You can check the details of the treatment methods on many sites in the web. For example, to go over this article and to read this post will help you learn more about the disease. http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Daniel_Smith">
Psoriasis can be defined as an inveterate, non-communicable and persistent skin problem which is illustrated by thick patches of red over the skin which is covered with white scales. It spreads to all over the body unless proper treatment is done at the right time. The disease causes patches of various colours ranging from red to white on the skin. It is a very embarrassing problem as people tend to look ugly while suffering from this disease. Various kinds of treatment help to keep the disease under control. It can affect various body parts which include the scalp, genital region and nails.
Causes of Psoriasis • Psoriasis normally occurs when the immune system of a person's body tends to overreact. • In many cases, psoriasis has been found to be hereditary as the disease has been passed from one generation to the next. • The condition can aggravate in times of stress, infection and extreme weather conditions. It becomes really difficult to bear the flare-ups. • Scientists have found smoking to be a very important cause for psoriasis to occur. • However the disease is not at all contagious.
Symptoms and diagnosis of Psoriasis • Initially, rash takes place in patches of skin and causes scaling of skin to take place. It becomes very uncomfortable to bear them. • The joints in various parts of the body become swollen. This is very painful. • The nails can be affected due to this disease and that is another very important symptom. • Usually the doctors diagnose this skin disease just by inspecting the patches on the skin. • In order to eliminate chances of a fungal infection, a KOH test is performed on the skin. • However, there is no need to conduct any special test to diagnose this disease.
Treatment of Psoriasis The treatments of this disease are normally performed by the patient himself at his home. The doctors instruct the patient to take certain care. The patients just need to follow those instructions. • The main intention during the treatment is always keeping the skin moist. Various kinds of lotions and creams are prescribed to do so. • The patients are advised not to expose the skin to the ultraviolet rays of the sun. • The crusts of the patches can be gently peeled off after application of the lotions for a period of time. This helps in faster recovery from this disease. • Certain herbal skin medicines can be applied. However the patient should test which product suits him the best and use that product. • Any kind of injury to the skin or infections must be avoided at all costs. Psoriasis is thus a very serious disease and treatment must be started as soon as the disease is diagnosed. The procedures available for treating Psoriasis should be employed immediately after the appearance of embarrassing patches on the skin. You can check the details of the treatment methods on many sites in the web. For example, to go over this article and to read this post will help you learn more about the disease. http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Daniel_Smith">
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