Psoriasis
POSTED August 23, 2010 - 17:44 | POSTED BY Anonymous
Last edited by Rakhi on August 23, 2010 - 17:47
Psoriasis, a non-contagious chronic skin disorder affects the skin and joints. Typically characterized by the appearance of red scaly patches, which are areas of inflammation and excessive skin production, the recurring skin disorder is triggered by the overproduction of skin cells. As the red scaly patches that may itch and bleed, the condition is often painful. Severity ranging from minor localized patches to complete body coverage, the condition typically afflicts fingernails and toenails also.
Causes
The exact cause of psoriasis is not known, but experts believe it has a genetic link. Several stimuli like stress, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, sunburn, cold temperatures, dry air and skin injuries are known to trigger the onset.
Prevention
A high intake of carrots, tomatoes and fresh fruits (all good sources of antioxidants) may help control the flare-ups of psoriasis. Essential fatty acids (found in fish oil and flaxseed oil), grape seed extract, vitamin A helps maintain a healthy skin and promotes healing. To prevent dry skin and reduce itching, apply an Aloe Vera based moisturizer all over the body.
Symptoms:
-Patches of raised, inflamed red skin with white, flaking scales.
-Itching
-Loosened, pitted or discolored fingernails or toenails.
-Cracked or blistered skin with pain in severe cases.
-Joint pain, swelling and stiffness.
Cures:
Bath solutions and moisturizers are among the most commonly used treatments that help soothe affected skin and reduce dryness. Medicated creams containing coal tar, dithranol (anthralin) and retinoids, applied directly to psoriatic plaques can also help reduce inflammation and remove built-up scales.
Phototherapy, short, non-burning exposure to sunlight (15-30 minutes daily) may help improve psoriasis lesions.
Systemic treatment: In severe cases where patients fail to respond to topical treatment and phototherapy, medications particularly drugs and injections are brought into use. The three main systemic treatments include methotrexate, cyclosporine and retinoids. While methotrexate and cyclosporine are immunosupressant drugs, retinoids are synthetic forms of vitamin A.
