Psoriasis
This chronic inflammatory skin condition causes red, scaly, and inflamed patches on the skin, leading to discomfort, self-consciousness, and emotional distress. The irony is that emotional distress, a common consequence of psoriasis, can also trigger and exacerbate the condition, creating a vicious cycle. If left unmanaged, this snowball effect can lead to worsening symptoms, decreased quality of life, and a significant impact on mental health. That's why it's essential to work with experts in the field who can help you break this cycle and develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
While it may seem rare, psoriasis actually affects 2-3% of the world's population, making it more common than you might think. It's a condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity.
The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but it's associated with:
An abnormal inflammatory response, where the skin's natural defense mechanisms go into overdrive
Genetic predisposition, which may play a role in its development
Environmental triggers, such as stress, cold weather, infections, injuries, certain medications, and hormonal changes
Treatments
Topical steroids, vitamin D analogues, and retinoids to reduce inflammation and slow skin cell growth
Light therapy, including ultraviolet (UV) light exposure and laser therapy, to slow skin cell growth and reduce inflammation
Systemic medications, such as “biologics”, to target the inflammatory response and reduce inflammation
Lifestyle changes, including maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, reducing stress, avoiding triggers, and keeping the skin moisturized