LIFESTYLE NEWS - Psoriasis is a common skin condition that can affect anyone, although it is more common in people between the ages of 15 and 35. If you have psoriasis, your skin cells grow faster than normal.
The body naturally develops new skin cells every month to replace skin that sheds or flakes off. With psoriasis, new skin cells form within days rather than weeks. This rapid growth causes dead skin cells to accumulate on the skin's surface, resulting in thick patches of red, dry and itchy skin.
Psoriasis can occur on the scalp, skin, nails and affects joints as well. Psoriasis is a chronic condition, but symptoms may improve over time. Psoriasis is not contagious. The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown.
Risk factors for psoriasis include:
- Family history of the condition
- Having a viral or bacterial infection
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Uncontrolled stress
- Use of certain medications, such as those used to treat bipolar disorder and high blood pressure
Psoriasis can mimic other skin conditions like ringworm and dermatitis. Doctors sometimes need to perform a skin biopsy to rule out other skin conditions. There is no cure for psoriasis.
Your doctor may prescribe creams or ointments for your skin or scalp. These can include:
- Topical corticosteroids
- Vitamin D analogues
- Topical retinoids
- Salicylic acid
- Moisturisers
- Light therapy
This therapy exposes skin to natural or artificial ultraviolet light under medical supervision. This treatment helps slow the growth of new skin cells.
Your doctor may prescribe medications to suppress your immune system.
You can take other steps to reduce symptoms. Oatmeal baths may soothe irritated, red skin. Applying moisturizer to dry, itchy skin immediately after a shower can also reduce flare-ups. Psoriasis may also improve if you limit alcohol consumption and learn ways to manage stress.
This article is for informative purposes only. Please be advised to see your doctor if you have any queries or e-mail questions@walkindoctor.co.za.
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