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Living with psoriasis can feel like you're dealing with something others may not fully understand. It's more than just a skin condition, it can affect both your physical and emotional well-being. Whether you’ve just been diagnosed or have been managing it for years, psoriasis can impact everything from your confidence to your daily routine. But you’re not alone in this. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at what it’s really like to live with psoriasis, offer practical advice, and explore the latest treatment options. Let’s dive in and find solutions that work for you.
What is psoriasis? Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes the rapid growth of skin cells, leading to thick, red, scaly patches on the skin. These patches can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.
Living with psoriasis can significantly affect mental health, leading to low self-esteem and body image concerns due to its visible nature. It can cause anxiety about flare-ups and how others perceive you, as well as depression from the emotional strain of managing a chronic condition.
Causes
The exact cause of psoriasis isn't fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and immune system factors.
Genetics: A family history of psoriasis can increase the likelihood of developing the condition, as certain genes are associated with the immune system's response in psoriasis.
Immune System Dysfunction: Psoriasis is considered an autoimmune disease, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, causing inflammation and rapid skin cell turnover.
Environmental Triggers: Certain environmental factors can trigger or worsen psoriasis in people who are genetically predisposed. These triggers may include stress, infections (such as strep throat), skin injuries, or even certain medications.
Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and obesity are also linked to an increased risk of developing psoriasis or worsening existing symptoms.
While these factors contribute to the development of psoriasis, the condition varies widely from person to person and not everyone with these risk factors will develop it.
Diagnosing Psoriasis
Diagnosing psoriasis typically starts with a visit to the doctor, who will examine your skin for the telltale red, scaly patches that are characteristic of the condition. They'll also ask about your medical history, any family history of psoriasis, and details about your symptoms and flare-ups. In some cases, if the diagnosis isn't clear, the doctor may recommend a skin biopsy where they take a small sample of your skin which is examined under a microscope to confirm whether it's psoriasis or something else. It’s a straightforward process, but it’s always important to get an accurate diagnosis so you can start managing your symptoms with the right treatment.
Treatments
There are several treatments available for managing psoriasis, and the right one depends on the severity of the condition and how it affects you.
Topical Treatments: These are applied directly to the skin and are often the first line of treatment. Common options include corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, vitamin D analogs to slow skin cell growth, and coal tar or topical retinoids to control scaling and redness.
Phototherapy: For more persistent cases, ultraviolet (UV) light therapy can help. This involves exposing the skin to UVB light under controlled conditions to slow down the rapid skin cell turnover that causes psoriasis. A stronger version of this, called PUVA therapy, combines light therapy with a medication that makes the skin more sensitive to light.
Systemic Treatments: For moderate to severe psoriasis, systemic treatments might be needed. These can be taken orally or by injection and work throughout the entire body. Examples include methotrexate, cyclosporine, and biologic drugs, which target specific parts of the immune system to reduce inflammation and skin cell production.
Lifestyle and Home Remedies: Keeping the skin moisturized is essential, as dryness can trigger flare-ups. Stress management, healthy diet, and avoiding known triggers like alcohol or smoking can also help reduce symptoms. Some people find relief through natural remedies or by using gentle skincare products.
Finding the right treatment often involves trial and error, so working closely with a healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your individual needs is key.
Support
Facing psoriasis can be really hard but we hope this article has brought you some support during this time. If you are looking for further guidance please visit the links below:
- Psoriasis Association Support Forum
- National Psoriasis Foundation
Coda Pharmacy is here to support you every step of the way. From helping you face psoriasis to offering expert advice and delivering your NHS prescriptions free of charge. If you have any questions about what you have read in this article or any of the services that Coda Pharmacy can provide you with, please do not hesitate to reach out and contact us here.