Psoriasis

The fast overproduction of skin cells that causes thick, red, scaly patches to grow on the skin’s surface is the hallmark of psoriasis, a persistent autoimmune skin disorder. Although these so-called plaques can appear anywhere on the body, the elbows, knees, scalp, lower back, and nails are the most typical places to find them.

Common Presentation: The typical presentation of psoriasis includes:

1. Red patches of skin:

These spots can hurt or itch and are frequently covered in silvery scales.

2. Thickened or pitted nails:

Psoriasis can cause pitting, which is characterized by tiny dents or holes the size of pinpricks, discolouration, or detachment from the nail bed.

3. Joint pain and swelling:

Psoriatic arthritis, a disorder that causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints, can sometimes result from psoriasis that also affects the joints.

Treatment Options:

1. Topical treatments:

These are applied directly to the skin and include corticosteroids, retinoids, vitamin D analogs, and calcineurin inhibitors. Their goals are to reduce inflammation, slow down the proliferation of skin cells, and relieve symptoms.

2. Phototherapy:

Often known as light therapy, is a medically supervised process that exposes the skin to ultraviolet (UV) radiation with the goal of reducing inflammation, slowing down skin cell proliferation, and improving psoriasis symptoms.

3. Systemic drugs:

Oral or injectable drugs such as methotrexate, cyclosporine, retinoids, or biologics may be recommended to suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation in moderate-to-severe instances of psoriasis that do not respond to topical therapies or light therapy.

4. Lifestyle Modifications:

Psoriasis symptoms can be managed and flare-ups lessened by adopting specific lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding triggers (such as stress, certain drugs, infections, or skin injuries), eating a nutritious diet, managing stress, and abstaining from smoking and excessive alcohol use.

5. Moisturizers and Emollients:

Frequent hydration of the skin can help relieve psoriasis-related dryness, itching, and irritation while also enhancing the general comfort and health of the skin.

It’s important for individuals with psoriasis to work closely with a dermatologist to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to their specific needs and symptoms. While there is no cure for psoriasis, various treatment options can help control symptoms, reduce flare-ups, and improve overall quality of life.