Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes skin cells to grow too quickly, resulting in thick, scaly patches on the skin.
1 It’s not contagious, but it can be uncomfortable, itchy, and even painful. While there’s no cure for psoriasis, there are various treatments and lifestyle strategies that can help manage symptoms and improve skin health.
This blog aims to provide information about living with psoriasis, including its different types, treatment options, and self-care strategies.
Types of Psoriasis
There are several types of psoriasis, each with its own characteristics:
- Plaque Psoriasis: The most common type, characterized by raised, red patches covered with silvery scales.
- Guttate Psoriasis: Small, drop-shaped lesions that often appear after a strep throat infection.
- Inverse Psoriasis: Smooth, red patches that occur in skin folds, such as the armpits or groin.
- Pustular Psoriasis: White pustules surrounded by red skin.
- Erythrodermic Psoriasis: A severe form that covers most of the body with widespread redness and scaling.
Treatment Options
Treatment for psoriasis depends on the type, severity, and location of the condition. Common options include:
- Topical Treatments: Creams, ointments, and lotions applied directly to the skin to reduce inflammation and slow skin cell growth.
- Light Therapy: Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light to slow skin cell growth.
- Oral Medications: Systemic medications that work throughout the body to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system.
- Biologics: Injections or infusions that target specific parts of the immune system involved in psoriasis.
Lifestyle Strategies for Managing Symptoms
In addition to medical treatments, several lifestyle strategies can help manage psoriasis symptoms:
- Skincare:
- Moisturize: Keep your skin well-hydrated with thick, oil-based moisturizers.
- Gentle Cleansing: Use mild, fragrance-free soaps and avoid harsh scrubbing.
- Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid triggers that worsen your psoriasis, such as stress, certain foods, or skin injuries.
- Stress Management: Practice stress-reducing techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
- Healthy Lifestyle:
- Balanced Diet: Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to improve overall health and reduce stress.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking can worsen psoriasis symptoms.
- Support: Connect with others living with psoriasis through support groups or online communities.
Living Well with Psoriasis
While psoriasis can be a challenging condition, it’s important to remember that it doesn’t define you. With the right treatment and self-care strategies, you can manage your symptoms, improve your skin health, and live a full and active life.
If you have concerns about psoriasis, consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.
Additional Resources:
- National Psoriasis Foundation: www.psoriasis.org [invalid URL removed]
- American Academy of Dermatology: www.aad.org
Dr. Kre Johnson is a Board Certified Family Medicine Physician and the sole owner of Brownstone Healthcare and Aesthetics. She is the Medical Director of the City of Birmingham’s Employee Health Clinic-Brownstone BWell Birmingham. She is the Event Producer of Wifeology and the founder of Three Twenty Girls, Inc. She loves God, traveling, and all things Southern!!
Brownstone BWell: Brownstone Healthcare has partnered with the City of Birmingham to offer primary care services to the employees of the City of Birmingham for $0 copayment. This partnership is for preventative services & screenings and sick visits. We partner with your current primary care physician and our goal is to keep you out of the ER and urgent care. We do not share your information with the City of Birmingham. We uphold HIPPA and professional standards. You can visit us at our downtown location 1700 5th Ave N Birmingham, AL 35203 or Trussville: 4643 Camp Coleman Road #117 Trussville, AL 35173 205-202-5650 call for your appointment today.
