Psoriasis is a skin disease affecting approximately three percent of the world’s population. It has a range of physical, emotional and social effects, but how much do we actually know about it?
The facts
• Psoriasis is a chronic (long term) skin disease associated with the over production of skin cells usually resulting in flaky, scaly and irritable skin
• It is not an infectious disease – it isn’t contagious
• If one parent has psoriasis, their child has a 10-25 percent chance of developing it too – it is hereditary. If both parents have psoriasis the chance will be higher
• Psoriasis cannot be cured but it can be treated and managed effectively
• It occurs in both men and women equally and can present at any age
• The first occurrence of psoriasis is usually triggered by something such as a wound to the skin, a throat infection, and certain types of medication or even stress
• Some studies indicate that lifestyle factors such as being obese, smoking and alcohol consumption can contribute to psoriasis symptoms – triggering them or making them worse
• Treatment for psoriasis depends on the severity and the personal circumstances of the individual. They range from ointments and creams to medications and phototherapy
• Untreated moderate to severe psoriasis may lead to complications such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, liver disease and psoriatic arthropathy. Fortunately, early and effective treatment of psoriasis may reduce this possibility
What are the emotional and social effects of psoriasis?
The unusual and sometimes severe appearance of psoriasis in prominent locations can have emotional and social consequences, such as social stigma, low self-esteem and even depression.
It is important to understand and take care of the emotional aspect of the condition; some patients isolate themselves because they feel uncomfortable with how they look. As a physician I can help them to treat the symptoms but we also need to educate the general public to let them know the facts about psoriasis and that it will cause them no harm.
Managing the condition by avoiding triggers
Certain things can cause psoriasis to trigger. If you have psoriasis and understand your triggers you have a greater chance of avoiding an episode. Triggers may be psychological stress, some bacterial infections, a sore throat, some medications (e.g. beta blockers or lithium) and skin wounds: If you know or suspect such triggers like stress, or a certain medication or smoking has worsened your symptoms, you can use that knowledge to make lifestyle changes and avoid a reoccurrence. You should talk to your doctor about this.
What should I do if I think I have psoriasis?
If you think you have psoriasis you should make an appointment to see a primary physician. If diagnosis of psoriasis is confirmed you may be treated by them or referred to a dermatologist. Before treatment begins your doctor will assess the severity of your condition and try to understand how much it is affecting your everyday life – this may determine what course of treatment to take. Treatment for psoriasis is very effective for most people.
Contributed by Hamad Medical Corporation
