Many people imagine psoriasis as a skin condition. But it’s important to realize and understand that this chronic disease begins deeper, underneath the skin.
Knowing the case of skin condition symptoms such as psoriasis and getting proper treatment can help you cope with the lifelong skin condition and even find relief.
What Exactly Is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that starts beneath the skin, and the symptoms show themselves in different ways. The most common type, plaque psoriasis, affects most people with psoriasis. Red, itchy and dry or scaly patches appear on the skin. These inflamed patches develop as a result of an overactive immune system. The body is producing more new skin cells at a faster rate than other people. Old skin cells are not able to be shed as quickly, and so this build-up appears.
Although these patches can appear anywhere on the body, the most common places for psoriasis is on the elbows, knees, and scalp. About 80 percent of patients with psoriasis will have these patches like these, which can be very itchy and often become dry to the point of cracking and bleeding.
Can Psoriasis Skin Conditions Be Treated?
Those who live with psoriasis have a lifelong struggle. And while there aren’t yet cures, it is possible to seek treatments to relieve the unsightly spots and uncomfortable symptoms. Topical as well as systemic medications can be effective in reducing the lesions. The goal of these medications and treatment is to help heal the immune system so that it functions as normally as possible.
Alternative Psoriasis Therapies for an Ideal Lifestyle
Light therapy or phototherapy and acupuncture or meditation are also being used as a way to treat psoriasis and help cope with it. With light therapy, the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays, and this can bring temporary relief.
California Dermatology & Clinical Research Institute currently has an open study on treating plaque psoriasis using light therapy. Click here to learn how you can participate in the study.
Psoriasis and Your Overall Health
When your body is inflamed, a number of health problems may occur.
Patients with psoriasis flare-ups may experience some form of other illness, including heart disease, diabetes, depression or even cancer. Although you may think, “It’s just a skin irritation,” it’s important to recognize and understand the more complex problems.
This is why psoriasis is not something to be taken lightly. It is a complex and chronic health condition whose symptoms aren’t always visible. If your health provider suggests treatments to target specific inflammatory pathways, you’re more likely to see and feel better results.
Some Reasons Why People Don’t Seek Psoriasis Treatments
1. People are sometimes scared of the side effects of psoriasis treatments
The good thing is that those side effects are reversible. You should try the recommended medication, and if you don’t like it you can always quit. A good doctor will never become angry with you for discontinuing treatment.
2. Many assume the disease isn’t that serious
The truth is that psoriasis affects every patient’s quality of life. Think of the things you have learned to avoid because you have psoriasis. This includes certain clothing (shorts, dark shirts or blouses), outdoor activities like going swimming or playing sports because you want to cover your skin. Don’t limit our life because you have psoriasis. You don’t have to.
3. They think psoriasis treatments are too expensive
If budget is a problem or you have no insurance, CDCRI might be the answer. Research studies are free, and some even pay you to undergo research.
4. Failed psoriasis treatments
There are now more great treatments for psoriasis than ever before and lots more being developed. If you watch television, you must see ads for psoriasis medications. Ask yourself if it’s time to try one. At CDRI, we believe that proper dermatology clinic research and understanding is key to living healthier lives.
Contact California Dermatology and Clinical Research to Treat Psoriasis
Call us today at 760-203-3839 for a consultation for your skin condition and find relief through tried and proven therapy or medication.
