Topicals: Psoriasis

Psoriasis

Overview and Psoriasis Facts

Psoriasis is a common noncontagious skin condition that causes the skin to turn red and become irritated. It is characterized by thick red skin with flaky white patches called scales, and develops when a person's immune system send faulty signals that tell skin cells to grow too quickly, causing new skin cells to form in days rather than weeks. Approximately 8 million people in the United States are affected by the condition.

Psoriasis Signs and Symptoms

Patients with psoriasis may experience periods of flare-ups followed by periods of remission, during which there are no signs seen on the skin. Although it can appear anywhere on the body, the red, irritated skin of psoriases is mostly seen on the elbows, knees, scalp, back, face, palms, and feet.

Common symptoms include:
Red, thick, dry, itchy skin
Scales on the skin
Genital lesions in men
Joint pain
Alterations in nails (eg, thickening, yellow-brown spots, and separation from base)
Dandruff

Causes/Common Triggers

The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown at this time. However, the immune system is thought to have a role in the disease in which healthy skin cells are attacked causing an immune response.
Common triggers of a flare-up include:
Upper respiratory infection
Dry skin
Skin injury (eg cuts, burns, bites)
Sunburn or not enough sun exposure
Stress
Excessive alcohol intake

Test and Diagnosis

Psoriasis is usually diagnosed by examining an individual's skin, nails, and scalp for signs. A dermatologist might also inquire as to whether any family members have psoriasis, and ask about any recent illnesses or medications being taken. A skin biopsy may be performed to test for other conditions that may be causing the symptoms.

Prevention

Although no specific methods have been established to prevent psoriasis, flare-ups may be reduced by keeping the skin clean and moist and avoiding known triggers.

Day-to-Day Management

Psoriasis can be managed by following a few key steps:
Maintaining proper skin hygiene
Using OTC medications as indicated by a physician and/or pharmacist
Taking medications as prescribed by a physician
Avoiding known triggers

Treatment and Care

A number of factors must be considered in determining the right course of treatment for psoriasis, including:
Type of psoriasis
Severity (the amount of skin affected)
Area of the body affected
Patient's age and medical history

Treatment may include prescription or OTC medication use such as topical ointments or creams, medications taken orally or by injection, phototherapy, and/or proper skin hygiene techniques.

Homeopathic and Alternative Remedies

A number of alternative treatment options are available to help manage the symptoms of psoriasis, including:
Oatmeal baths
Proper amount of sunlight exposure
Relaxation exercises to relieve stress

Self-Care

OTC topical medications such as corticosteroid creams, moisturizers, and dandruff shampoos can help manage psoriasis .It is important to consult with a pharmacist before choosing an OTC medication, and to discuss all medications that are being taken to prevent any drug interactions or contradictions.