Psoriasis

With age we notice changes in our skin from dry skin, to wrinkles, to more fragile skin that bruises easier than it did when we were younger.  Psoriasis is a very common skin disorder that you or your loved one may be familiar with.  It is characterized by scaly, itchy skin patches that are caused from an overproduction of keratin (a structural protein of your skin).  The overproduction of keratin can occur at a rate up to seven times the rate of normal skin cells, and it is thought to be an autoimmune disorder (when the body attacks its own healthy cells) due to its periods of flare-ups and remissions. 

Some individuals who are diagnosed with psoriasis may also notice changes in their joints that result in arthritis pain that may even limit their range of motion.  Risk factors for psoriasis include:

·      Infections (severe strep throat infections, upper respiratory infections, and more)

·      Trauma to the skin and/or recent surgery

·      Genetics (it may skip generations within families)

·      Stress, which will cause an overstimulation of the immune system

·      Changing of seasons (warm weather generally improves symptoms)

·      Fluctuations of hormones

·      Certain medications (lithium, beta-blockers, and more)

Psoriasis may take on different forms, and each form of course has its own clinical symptoms, including:

·      Psoriasis Vulgaris

o   Scaly skin with silvery white colored patches

·      Exfoliative Psoriasis

o   Appears as redness and scaling due to a severe inflammatory reaction.

o   The reaction can also cause dehydration and hypo/hyperthermia.

·      Palmoplantar Pustulosis

o   It’s not as complicated as it sounds, thank goodness.

o   Appears as red areas that have accumulated skin cells present from an inflammatory disorder.

o   Plaques form and the areas will turn brown, peel and form a crust on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet.

Psoriasis patches can range from a few spots of dandruff-like scaling here and there to major eruptions that cover large areas of the body.  Most types of psoriasis will go through cycles, flaring for a few weeks or months, and then subsiding for an unknown period of time…it may even go into complete remission, hopefully!  Other general signs and symptoms of psoriasis to be aware of include:

·      Scaly patches of skin

·      Bleeding upon removal of scaly skin

·      Skin lesions that are primarily on the scalp, elbows, knees, buttocks, and lateral areas of the extremities

·      Pitting nails that break easily

·      Itching, burning and/or soreness

·      Swollen and stiff joints

If you suspect that you or a loved one may have psoriasis, do not hesitate to contact your doctor for an examination of your signs and symptoms.  You should especially seek medical attention if your psoriasis:

ü  Progresses beyond the stage of being a nuisance, causing you pain and discomfort

ü  Interferes with your daily tasks and routines

ü  Causes you concern about your skin appearance

ü  Leads to joint problems (pain and/or swelling)

Those who suffer from psoriasis understand that their condition is uncomfortable and could possibly even be disfiguring, while being difficult and a nuisance to treat.  Psoriasis will come and go throughout the lifespan, and while there are medications and lifestyle measures to help manage your symptoms and clear up your skin…there is currently no cure. 

Total Home Health has a program for you in which we will provide your care within the comforts of your own home.  Our primary goal of your treatment will be to stop skin cells from growing so rapidly and manage your symptoms when your psoriasis is at its worst.  Our professionals will be attuned to any adjustments that need made in your treatment plan so that you get the most relief from your symptoms, and that you are able to continue a happy, healthy life…without a constant bother from psoriasis.  Enroll with Total Home Health today to find out more!