Blog Entry

Understanding Psoriasis: Raising Awareness for Psoriasis Awareness Month

At Clear Choice Dermatology we are committed to providing comprehensive care and support for patients with a variety of skin conditions. As we observe Psoriasis Awareness Month, it’s crucial to shed light on this chronic autoimmune disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Our team of experts is dedicated to helping those with psoriasis manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life through personalized treatment plans.  

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a condition that speeds up the growth cycle of skin cells, causing cells to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin. These extra skin cells form scales and red patches that are often itchy and sometimes painful. While it can appear anywhere on the body, common areas include the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. Psoriasis affects over 8 million people in the United States alone.

Types of Psoriasis

There are several types of psoriasis, each with its own unique symptoms:

1. Plaque Psoriasis: The most common form, characterized by raised, red patches covered with a silvery-white buildup of dead skin cells.
2. Guttate Psoriasis: Often starts in childhood or young adulthood, marked by small, dot-like lesions.
3. Inverse Psoriasis: Causes bright red lesions that are shiny and smooth, often found in skin folds.
4. Pustular Psoriasis: Appears as white pustules (blisters of noninfectious pus) surrounded by red skin.
5. Erythrodermic Psoriasis: A severe, very rare type that leads to widespread, fiery redness over most of the body.

Causes and Triggers

The exact cause of psoriasis isn't fully understood, but it involves an immune system problem with T cells and other white blood cells, which attack healthy skin cells by mistake. Genetics and environmental factors play significant roles in its development. Common triggers include:

• Stress: Emotional or physical stress can trigger or exacerbate psoriasis flares.
• Skin Injuries: Cuts, scrapes, bug bites, or severe sunburns can cause a psoriasis flare-up in a phenomenon known as the Koebner response.
• Infections: Certain infections, such as strep throat, can trigger the onset of psoriasis or cause a flare-up in people already affected by the condition.
• Medications: Some medications, including lithium, antimalarials, and beta-blockers, can trigger or worsen psoriasis.
• Weather Conditions: Cold, dry weather can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms, while warm, sunny climates may help improve them.

Impact on Quality of Life

Psoriasis is more than just a skin condition; it can significantly impact a person's quality of life. Those with psoriasis may experience physical discomfort and emotional distress, leading to challenges in daily functioning and mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. The visibility of the condition can also affect social interactions and self-esteem.

Research shows that psoriasis is associated with an increased risk of other serious health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain types of arthritis, particularly psoriatic arthritis. This emphasizes the importance of comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of the disease.

Treatment Options

While there is no cure for psoriasis, several treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These include:

1. Topical Treatments: Corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues, and topical retinoids can reduce inflammation and slow skin cell turnover. These are often the first line of treatment for mild to moderate psoriasis.
2. Phototherapy: Controlled exposure to ultraviolet light, either natural sunlight or artificial UVB light, can help control psoriasis symptoms. Phototherapy is usually administered in a clinical setting, but home units are also available for some patients.
3. Systemic Medications: Oral or injected medications that work throughout the body, such as methotrexate, cyclosporine, and biologics, are used for moderate to severe psoriasis. Biologics are a newer class of drugs that target specific parts of the immune system.
4. Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy diet, reducing stress, avoiding known triggers, and using moisturizing lotions can help manage flare-ups and improve overall skin health.

The Role of Diet and Lifestyle

Diet and lifestyle play crucial roles in managing psoriasis. Although no specific diet has been universally proven to improve psoriasis symptoms, some evidence suggests that certain dietary changes can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health. For instance:

• Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts, may help reduce inflammation. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are also beneficial.
• Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms and improve the effectiveness of treatments.
• Alcohol and Smoking: Reducing alcohol consumption and quitting smoking can lead to significant improvements in psoriasis symptoms and overall health.

Mental Health and Psoriasis

The psychological impact of psoriasis should not be underestimated. Living with a visible, chronic condition can lead to feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, and depression. It's important for patients to seek support from healthcare providers, support groups, or mental health professionals.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) are effective strategies for managing the emotional burden of psoriasis. Engaging in regular physical activity and practicing stress-reduction techniques, such as yoga and meditation, can also improve mental well-being.

Support and Resources

Living with psoriasis can be challenging, but numerous resources and support networks are available. Organizations like the National Psoriasis Foundation offer education, advocacy, and support groups to help those affected by the condition. They provide resources on the latest treatments, clinical trials, and strategies for managing daily life with psoriasis.

Conclusion

Psoriasis Awareness Month is an opportunity to educate the public about this chronic condition, advocate for better treatment options, and support those living with psoriasis. At Clear Choice Dermatology, we are committed to providing comprehensive care and support to our patients. If you or a loved one is struggling with psoriasis, our team of dermatology experts in Oregon and Washington is here to help.

By raising awareness and promoting understanding, we can improve the quality of life for those affected by psoriasis and work towards more effective treatments and ultimately a cure.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit Clear Choice Dermatology’s website or contact one of our locations in Oregon or Washington.

References

National Psoriasis Foundation. (n.d.). About Psoriasis. Retrieved from https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis/

Mayo Clinic. (2022). Psoriasis. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355840

American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). Psoriasis: Overview and More. Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/psoriasis

National Psoriasis Foundation. (n.d.). Get Involved. Retrieved from https://www.psoriasis.org/get-involved/

Thursday August 1, 2024