Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide, including many residents of Abu Dhabi. At American Crescent Healthcare Center, we understand the impact that Psoriasis can have on your life. With our experienced dermatologists, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care and support for individuals dealing with Psoriasis.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells, leading to scaling on the skin’s surface. This buildup can form scales and red patches that are sometimes painful and itchy. Typically, skin cells grow deep in the skin and slowly rise to the surface, eventually falling off. This process usually takes about a month. However, in people with Psoriasis, it can occur in just a few days because the skin cells rise too quickly and pile up on the surface.
Types of Psoriasis
Psoriasis can manifest in several forms, each with distinct characteristics:
- Plaque Psoriasis: The most common type, causing dry, raised, red skin lesions (plaques) covered with silvery scales. These plaques can be itchy or painful and may occur anywhere on the body, including the genitals and soft tissue inside the mouth.
- Guttate Psoriasis: This type often starts in childhood or young adulthood and is characterized by small, water-drop-shaped, scaling lesions on your trunk, arms, legs, and scalp. These lesions are covered by a fine scale and are not as thick as plaque Psoriasis.
- Inverse Psoriasis: This affects the skin folds of the groin, buttocks, and breasts. It causes smooth patches of red, inflamed skin that worsen with friction and sweating. Fungal infections may trigger this type of Psoriasis.
- Pustular Psoriasis: This rare form of Psoriasis causes clearly defined white pustules (blisters of non-infectious pus) surrounded by red skin. Pustular Psoriasis can occur on localized areas of the body, like the hands and feet, or cover most of the body.
- Erythrodermic Psoriasis: The least common type, erythrodermic Psoriasis can cover your entire body with a red, peeling rash that can itch or burn intensely. It can be life-threatening, so immediate medical attention is necessary.
Symptoms of Psoriasis
The symptoms of Psoriasis vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common signs and symptoms include:
• Red patches of skin covered with thick, silvery scales
• Small scaling spots (commonly seen in children)
• Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
• Itching, burning, or soreness
• Thickened or ridged nails
• Swollen and stiff joints
Psoriasis symptoms can come and go, flaring for a few weeks or months, then subsiding for a time or going into complete remission.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of Psoriasis isn’t fully understood, but it’s believed to be related to an immune system problem with T cells and other white blood cells. These T cells normally protect the body against infection and disease. In people with Psoriasis, T cells attack healthy skin cells by mistake as if to heal a wound or fight an infection.
Several factors can trigger or worsen Psoriasis, including:
- Stress: Which can affect your immune system
- Infections: Such as strep throat or skin infections
- Injury to the skin: Cuts or scrapes, insect bites, or a severe sunburn
- Weather: Particularly cold, dry conditions
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Certain medications: Including lithium, medications for high blood pressure, and antimalarial drugs
- Smoking: Which can increase the risk and severity of Psoriasis
Treatment Options
At American Crescent Healthcare Center, our experienced dermatologists tailor treatment plans to meet the individual needs of each patient. The goal of Psoriasis treatment is to stop the skin cells from growing so quickly and to remove scales. There are several treatment options available:
- Topical Treatments: These are often the first line of defence and include corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues, retinoids, calcineurin inhibitors, salicylic acid, and coal tar.
- Light Therapy (Phototherapy): This treatment uses natural or artificial ultraviolet light. The simplest form of phototherapy can also involve exposing your skin to controlled amounts of natural sunlight.
- Systemic Medications: For severe cases, medications taken orally or by injection can be prescribed. These include methotrexate, cyclosporine, and biologics. Biologics are drugs that target specific parts of the immune system.
- Lifestyle and Home Remedies: Regular moisturizing, taking daily baths, and managing stress can help improve symptoms. Additionally, avoiding triggers such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can help prevent flare-ups.
- Alternative Therapies: Some patients find relief through alternative therapies such as acupuncture, herbal remedies, and dietary supplements. It’s important to discuss these options with your doctor to ensure they are safe and effective for your specific situation.
Living with Psoriasis
While Psoriasis is a chronic condition, many people with Psoriasis live full and active lives. Managing stress, following a healthy lifestyle, and sticking to your treatment plan can help you control your symptoms. Support groups and counseling can also provide emotional support and help you cope with the challenges of living with Psoriasis.
While there is currently no cure for Psoriasis, effective treatments can reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life. At American Crescent Healthcare Center, Dr. Karrar Khalid is dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible outcomes in managing your Psoriasis. Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can support you on your journey to healthier skin!
