A common skin disease, psoriasis appears as red patches on the skin with silvery scales. It is a chronic skin disorder, which can affect any part of the body or sometimes even the whole body.

Even after a lot of research, the real cause is not yet known. Some say it is a disorder of excessive growth and reproduction of skin cells. Some others relate it to the immune system.

Plaque, Guttate, Pustular, Generalised, Inverse, Erythrodermic and Nail are the different types of psoriasis commonly found. The most common one is the Plaque psoriasis in which the skin is thickened, red and covered by silvery white scales. This appears on the knees, scalp, chest, elbows and lower back parts of the body. Mostly appearing in children and adults, Guttate psoriasis is the second most common type. Trunk, arms and legs are the parts that are affected by Guttate psoriasis.

Pustular psoriasis is found in adults and is usually triggered by infections, sunburn and medications. Usually appearing in the palms and soles, the skin becomes red, swollen and dotted with pus. This form is a rare one, usually seen in older people. It affects wide areas and the skin would be swollen with small, white pus filled blisters. Inverse psoriasis is not that commonly found and is usually found in the genital area between the buttocks and breasts. The least commonly found is the Erythrodermic psoriasism, but which is life threatening. The skin tends to lose its protective functions, which is dangerous. Infection, stress and alcoholism are said to be the cause of Erythrodermic psoriasis. The red parches and scales appearing in the fingers and nails.

Even with all the various types of this skin condition, there is nothing to worry, as treatment is available. But it depends on the type, the age, gender and other factors. The treatment usually begins with the topical treatment, which is considered to be the basis of all treatments. If only this fails, the other methods like phototherapy, photo-chemotherapy is considered.

Topical treatment involves using medicated ointments and creams. Basically ointments containing coal tar, dithranol, carticosteroids, vitamins and retinoids are used. Phototherapy involves the daily short exposure to sunlight. The sunlight contains a lot of rays, including the Ultra Violet rays that are good for psoriasis. Photochemotherapy or Psoralen Plus Ultra Violet (PUVA) is a mixture of medication and Ultra Violet rays. There is Excimer laser, which treats only the affected parts. Normally oral medication is not prescribed as it has several side effects. Retinoids, Methotrexate, Hydrozyme, Azathioprine, Cyclosporine are the common medicines that are given.

But it cannot be treated on its own. It is always good that you consult a doctor as soon as you detect it. Though you can’t cure it, you can at least improve the conditions by taking some measures. Take baths daily as it helps to remove the scalp and also the inflamed skin. Bath oils, oatmeal and Epsom salt can be poured in the water before taking the bath. Use only mild soaps and use moisturiser immediately after the wash. It is also preferred to apply moisturiser often during the day.

Psoriasis is a condition that can make a person emotionally stressfull and also dejected. It is really a challenge that one faces in the society and the only thing that can be done is to improve upon the conditions.

You do not need to suffer from psoriasis

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