Psoriasis: Beyond The Scaly Surface

Overview:

Psoriasis is a persistent inflammatory skin condition characterized by thick, scaly areas of irritated and red skin coated with silvery scales. This disorder affects more than 2% of the world’s population, with more cases reported from developing countries. In the US, around 7.55 million people have Psoriasis. It can range from mild to severe, with some people enduring painful and incapacitating symptoms. 

Psoriasis commonly affects the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back, but it can appear anywhere on the body. According to some research studies, Psoriasis is more severe in males than females. Although there is no permanent cure for Psoriasis, paid clinical trials are an effective way to find potential treatment options for various severe conditions.

In this blog, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and how Psoriasis affects the well-being of an affected individual. 

What Causes Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is not communicable, and the specific etiology is undefined, however, genetics and immune system dysfunction have a significant part in the development of Psoriasis. T cells are the major type of immune cells that are involved in defense and help fight infections, and in the case of Psoriasis, they begin to attack healthy cells. This causes the skin’s innermost layer of cells to create more T cells in defense.

Genetics is another aspect that contributes to the development of Psoriasis. If someone has a family member with Psoriasis, they are more likely to develop it themselves, however, this is not always the case.

Triggers of Psoriasis:

Psoriasis can be caused by a variety of triggering factors. Some of these include:

• Smoking
• Infection
• Weather
• Alcohol intake
• Certain medications, oral or injectable corticosteroid
• Stress
• Hormonal changes
• Throat infection: Guttate psoriasis is a condition that occurs in children following a streptococcal infection.

Symptoms of Psoriasis:

Some of the major symptoms of Psoriasis include:

• Dry skin patches called plaques
• Scaly skin
• Itching
• Burning
• Joint stiffness 

Types of Psoriasis:

The following are the five primary forms of psoriasis:

• Plaque psoriasis: It is the most common form of psoriasis, accounting for around 80% of cases. It shows elevated, inflammatory patches of red or pink skin covered in silvery-white scales.
• Guttate psoriasis: It is characterized by tiny, drop-like red patches on the skin. It is frequently caused by a bacterial infection or an upper respiratory illness.
• Inverse psoriasis: This condition affects skin folds or rubs together, such as the armpits, crotch, or beneath the breasts. It manifests itself as red, smooth, and shiny areas of skin.
• Pustular psoriasis: It is a rare but deadly form of psoriasis characterized by painful, pus-filled blisters on the skin. It can be caused by drugs, infections, or other factors.
• Erythrodermic psoriasis: It is the most severe form of psoriasis, characterized by extensive redness, scaling, and itching over broad areas of skin. If not treated promptly, it can be fatal.

Is There A Link Between Psoriasis and Hygiene?

Since Psoriasis is a skin condition, most people feel that inadequate cleanliness is to blame. Contrary to popular belief, Psoriasis is mostly caused by genetics and has little to do with cleanliness. However, it is important to maintain appropriate hygiene in order to keep the illness under control.

What Is the Relationship Between Psoriasis and the Immune System?

Psoriasis does not affect or weaken the immune system, rather, it may signal faulty immune system function. Anything that stimulates the immune system may cause a flare-up of Psoriasis. Additionally, Infections of the ear or respiratory tract might trigger a flare-up.

How Does Psoriasis Affect Mental Health?

Psoriasis is linked to bodily discomforts such as itching, burning, and pain. It can, however, have a substantial impact on mental health, resulting in anxiety, despair, and low self-esteem.

The apparent presence of psoriasis lesions on the skin can be embarrassing, shameful, and socially isolating, leading to feelings of poor self-worth and negative self-image. Furthermore, the condition’s unexpected flare-ups and chronic nature can generate ongoing stress, increasing mental health issues.

Also, psoriasis patients are more likely to acquire psychological illnesses such as sadness and anxiety. Those with psoriasis have a two to three times higher chance of getting depression and anxiety than those without the disorder, according to research.

In conclusion, psoriasis can have a substantial impact on an individual’s mental health by reducing self-esteem, producing feelings of social stigma and isolation, and inducing psychological stress. Those suffering from psoriasis should seek both medical and psychological treatment in order to properly control their symptoms and ensure their overall health.

Psoriasis and Social Anxiety:

A strong fear of social settings, such as meeting new people, speaking in public, or participating in group activities, characterizes social anxiety. Besides the physical discomfort, Psoriasis can cause emotional suffering and interfere with a person’s social life. This is due to the fact that some of the affected areas, such as the face, arms, legs, and scalp, may be plainly noticeable. A person may feel self-conscious and nervous about how others view them as a result of their looks. Individuals suffering from Psoriasis may develop social anxiety as a result of their fear of being criticized, mocked, or rejected. It can also affect their ability to form new relationships or participate in social events.

Difference Between Psoriasis and Eczema:

Psoriasis and eczema are two common skin conditions that can cause inflammation, redness, and irritation. While the two disorders have certain symptoms, there are significant variations between them:

1. The precise cause of psoriasis is uncertain, however, it is thought to be associated with an overactive immune system. Eczema, on the other hand, is assumed to be the result of a combination of hereditary and environmental causes.
2. Psoriasis is distinguished by thick, scaly areas of skin that are generally silvery or white in appearance. Eczema, on the other hand, usually manifests as red, itchy, and occasionally blistering patches of skin.
3. Psoriasis usually appears in certain parts of the body, such as the elbows, knees, and scalp. Eczema can appear everywhere on the body, but it is most typically found on the hands, feet, and in skin creases.
4. Psoriasis often manifests in adulthood, whereas eczema manifests in childhood.
5. Both illnesses are treatable with topical treatments, although more severe cases may necessitate oral medications or light therapy. The specific treatments utilized to manage each illness, however, may vary. Psoriasis, for example, is frequently treated with immune-stimulating drugs, whereas eczema may be treated with steroid creams or antihistamines.

Outlook:

Despite the fact that psoriasis is a chronic condition, many people with it are able to control their symptoms and live happy and productive lives. Those with psoriasis, on the other hand, should work closely with their healthcare providers to design a specific treatment plan and monitor for any potential consequences. Moreover, Psoriasis Clinical Trials may be another option to find a potential and effective treatment for this debilitating skin condition. 

Also Read: The basic goal of Ayurveda therapy is health.