Demystifying Psoriasis: Causes, Symptoms, and Therapies

• Written by Mudit Handa

  Reviewed by Akhil Pillai

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Many people in the world's temperate zones suffer from various skin pigmentation issues that affect their appearance. One of the most common skin pigmentation conditions that is prevalent even in the northern parts of India is psoriasis.

Psoriasis arises from an immune system malfunction that accelerates skin cell growth. Genetic predisposition and environmental triggers play significant roles in developing these skin diseases. However, many lifestyle factors can be a reason for psoriasis.

This article will illuminate various causes and symptoms of psoriasis and the treatment methods to deal with this skin problem.

What are the Factors Responsible for Psoriasis?

Various factors are responsible for developing psoriasis.

• Overactive Immune System: Normally, skin cells mature and shed over about a month. However, this process accelerates dramatically with psoriasis, with new cells forming every three to four days. Instead of shedding, these excess cells build up on the skin's surface, resulting in inflammation, redness, and itchy patches. Additionally, the inflammation from psoriasis can affect other organs and tissues in the body.
• Genetics: A family history of skin diseases, along with specific genes, can increase susceptibility to psoriasis.
• Lifestyle Factors: Adverse medications, smoking, alcohol use, extreme weather changes, stress, or certain infections can trigger or initiate psoriasis symptoms if you are already susceptible to this disease. Sometimes, a particular skin disease, such as eczema, may also cause this disease, which is called psoriasis eczema.

Research is still being done regarding the additional factors responsible for this disease, though the exact reason for psoriasis is unknown. However, one thing is certain: psoriasis is not contagious and does not spread by physical contact.

Various Types of Psoriasis

Psoriasis can occur in various forms, each with its distinct features and impact on the affected area. Accordingly, here are the different types of psoriasis:

Plaque Psoriasis is the most prevalent form, characterised by elevated, red patches covered with silvery scales.

• Guttate Psoriasis: This type manifests as small, dot-like lesions, frequently appearing after a streptococcal infection.
• Inverse Psoriasis: Presents as smooth, red, and inflamed patches located in skin folds such as the armpits, groin, and under the breasts.
• Pustular Psoriasis: Characterised by white, pus-filled blisters surrounded by reddened skin, which can be localised or widespread.
• Erythrodermic Psoriasis: A severe type involving widespread, fiery redness and skin shedding, necessitating immediate medical care.

What are the Symptoms of Psoriasis?

Psoriasis symptoms vary by type and severity. Some are evident, while others are not apparent, but are felt equally. Common symptoms include:

• Skin: The most evident symptom of psoriasis include red patches or silvery scales on the skin. Besides, your skin may become dry and cracked, with an itching and burning sensation, soreness, and small scaling spots.
• Nails: Nails may become thickened, pitted, discoloured, and separated from the nail bed.
• Joints: Severe psoriasis often causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, which is called psoriatic arthritis.

These are some noticeable signs of psoriasis that must be treated immediately upon observation.

Different Techniques for Treatment of Psoriasis

Psoriasis treatment aims to alleviate symptoms and manage the accelerated skin cell turnover. Various medications and therapies are employed, including:

• Topical Treatments: Certain creams and ointments containing corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues, retinoids, or calcineurin inhibitors are directly applied to the skin.
• Light Therapy: Exposure to controlled amounts of natural or artificial ultraviolet (UV) radiation helps slow the accelerated skin cell turnover.
• Systemic Medications: Oral or injected medications for moderate to severe psoriasis work throughout the body to manage the symptoms.
• Biologic Infusions: Certain medications derived from and containing some live organisms are given as injections or infusions that target specific parts of the immune system for moderate to severe psoriasis.
• Alternative Therapies: The alternative psoriasis therapies involve using herbs like aloe vera, argan (fish-oil) supplements, and dead Sea salts, though their effectiveness is not consistently proven. It is always advised to consult a dermatologist regarding their proper use.

These are some of the well-known approaches of skin psoriasis treatment.

How to Cure Psoriasis Permanently?

Currently, there is no known cure or permanent treatment that can completely eradicate psoriasis. However, certain treatment techniques, medications, and alternative therapies can effectively mitigate the symptoms, reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups, and improve the quality of life for those suffering from psoriasis. Besides, there is no way to prevent the onset of psoriasis, as this can be either genetic or an autoimmune dysfunction.

Living with psoriasis can be a significant challenge. Psoriasis affects various spheres of life, such as relationships and emotional health. A patient can easily cope with psoriasis with a proper skincare routine and stress management.

Besides managing stress related to skin diseases like psoriasis, coping with the financial stress associated with various health emergencies is essential. For that, you must have adequate health coverage.

>> Also Read: Diseases Covered under Health Insurance Policy

Mitigate your Health Emergency Stress with Ultimate Coverage

Skin-related issues like psoriasis bring certain challenges in daily life that can cause stress. Adding to it, the financial burden of treating such a disease can further increase your stress. Hence, you must have a comprehensive health insurance plan such as Ultimate Care that can assure you of complete coverage of all types of advanced medical treatment, with a promise of return of base coverage after completing five policy years. When selecting health coverage, thoroughly reviewing the terms and conditions outlined in the policy document is essential.

Disclaimer: It is essential to verify the policy details and coverage with the official policy documents. Also, kindly consult a professional medical expert to verify the details of health concerns.