Psoriasis is a common inflammatory skin condition that causes the body to create new skin cells too quickly.
As these cells accumulate on the surface of the skin, they become thick, red, dry, itchy patches called plaques. Many plaques become covered in a silvery-white coating called scale. Psoriasis can affect men and women of all ages and can appear anywhere on the body. Psoriasis is a chronic condition and has a relapsing and remitting course. Treatment focuses on controlling symptoms and reducing flares through lifestyle modifications, prescription medication and in-office procedures.
What causes psoriasis?
The definitive cause of psoriasis is not yet known, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors is likely at play. Some, though not all, patients who develop psoriasis have a family history of the condition. Others experience their first flare following a trigger such as infection or stress. It may be that a person inherits a genetic predisposition to psoriasis but does not show symptoms unless exposed to an environmental stimulus that activates the condition.
What triggers psoriasis?
A variety of external factors can cause psoriasis to flare. Some of the most common triggers include:
- Stress
- Skin injury or infection
- Sunburn
- Alcohol and cigarette consumption
- Winter weather
- Hormones
- Certain medications
Flare-ups often occur following an earache, bronchitis, tonsillitis or a respiratory infection. If you experience a flare, speak to your doctor about a strep throat test, as a certain type of psoriasis often follows strep throat even if no symptoms are present.
What foods should I avoid when I have psoriasis?
At-home management plays a key role in treating psoriasis. Psoriatic skin is more vulnerable to damage than healthy skin and should be treated with care.
- Use a gentle, soap-free cleanser
- Regularly moisturise your skin
- Avoid skin injury
- Avoid picking at psoriasis or the scale, as this repetitive injury can worsen the condition
What medical treatment is available for psoriasis?
Dr. Hughes can recommend an appropriate medical treatment approach based on the type of psoriasis, the area(s) of the body involved and the severity of the condition. Typically, treatment consists of a steroid to reduce inflammation and a vitamin D analogue to decrease skin cell turnover and scale. Infrared LED therapy has been shown to improve psoriasis. If systemic treatment is required, you will be referred to a dermatologist for treatment in a hospital setting.
Book in an appointment to explore your psoriasis treatment options
Although there is currently no known cure for psoriasis, it generally responds well to treatment and can be effectively managed. Schedule an appointment by phoning 087 4223492 or book in for a dermatology consultation online.
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