How can psoriasis be recognized?What disease is this?Why does my skin hurt?

People who encounter this skin disease with very unpleasant symptoms for the first time want to know what psoriasis is and how to get rid of this disease.This is a disease that primarily affects the upper layer of the epidermis and its appendages: the nail plate and bed, hairs.According to statistics, psoriasis affects about 4% of the entire world population.In addition, the disease is more common at a young age: between 18 and 23 years of age.

There are many diseases associated with psoriasis, so it is important to know its symptoms in order to choose the right treatment.

In general, you should not self-medicate this disease, as psoriasis develops very quickly and can cause serious complications.Visiting a dermatologist is the only right decision if you discover signs of the disease.

Species

There are many types of this skin disease.When classifying psoriasis, the nature of the rash, the severity of the course and the location of the lesions are taken into account.There are the following main types of psoriasis:

• Plaque psoriasis (common).This is the most common type of the disease, occurring in 85% of all patients.It is characterized by the presence of gray or silvery-white plaques that rise above the surface of the skin and are easily detached.Psoriasis vulgaris is another name for this form of the disease.
• Guttate psoriasis.The damaging elements of this type of disease look like drops or dots ranging from red to purple.
• Pustular psoriasis.The most severe form of this skin disease.It is characterized by the presence of pustules on the body - blisters filled with clear, non-infected fluid.When the disease is advanced, the fluid becomes purulent.
• Psoriatic nail damage (onychodystrophy).The symptoms of this form of psoriasis affect the nail plates and the area around them: the shade of the nail changes, spots appear on its surface, the skin around the bed thickens, the plate breaks and detaches.

• Arthropathic psoriasis.The disease is characterized by inflammation of small joints.This form of psoriasis most often leads to disability.
• Inverse psoriasis (fold or inverse).The disease affects the skin folds in the groin area, inner thighs, armpits and under the mammary glands (in women).
• Palmoplantar psoriasis.With the development of this form of the disease, all characteristic symptoms appear on the legs and hands.In severe cases, the disease affects the nails and other areas of the body.
• Seborrheic psoriasis.With this form, rashes are localized on the head, face and back.

Symptoms of the disease

What does psoriasis look like?How not to confuse it with another skin disease?In the early stages of the disease, the following symptoms of psoriasis appear:

• the appearance of pinkish, red or bluish papules on the skin, symmetrically located in specific areas of the body;
• general weakness;
• chronic fatigue;
• depression or apathy.

Gradually, the rash merges into plaques - easily removable scaly formations.The area of inflammation increases towards the edges.

At this stage of psoriasis, there are signs that can help distinguish the disease from other skin conditions.If you scrape off the scales, you may observe the psoriasis triad phenomenon, which consists of the following symptoms:

• stearin stain: after scraping off the plaque, silvery-white scales come off that look like stearin shavings;
• terminal film: at the site of the scraped formation, a very thin shiny film remains, which covers the papule;
• "bloody dew": pin-point bleeding may occur at the site of the removed terminal film, which occurs due to damage to the vascular network under the skin.

The symptoms of psoriasis vary depending on the stage of the disease and the season.In most patients, the manifestations of psoriasis intensify in winter.The "summer" form of the disease is quite rare, as the patient's condition improves under the influence of ultraviolet radiation.

How does psoriasis manifest itself in different stages?In total, there are 3 stages of the development of the disease.

1. In the progressive stage, new rashes constantly appear and existing plaques increase in size.The patient feels strong itching, the skin constantly peels.
2. What does psoriasis look like when it is stationary?During this period, papules stop growing.Small folds can be observed in the area of the plaques.Still very itchy.
3. In the regression phase, the plaques disappear, the peeling disappears, and the itching ceases.Pigmented areas may appear at the site of formations.

Some types of psoriasis have characteristic symptoms.

For example, if the scalp is affected, plaques resembling dandruff appear first.In this case, only the skin suffers;the condition and growth of the hair is not affected by the disease.From the head, the rash spreads to the area behind the ears, neck and forehead.

The occurrence of psoriasis on the palms and feet is accompanied by thickening of the skin and the appearance of cracks.At the initial stage of the disease, pustules with transparent contents are formed, which gradually become purulent.Later, scars appear at the site of such formations, which cause discomfort and pain during physical activities (manual work, walking).In the future, the disease may spread to the back of the hand and fingers.

The description of psoriasis of the nails is as follows: first, the plate is covered with small indentations that resemble needle marks, it changes color and begins to flake and peel off.The tissue around the nail thickens and becomes inflamed.

Main reasons

The pathogenesis of psoriasis has not been fully investigated to date.Scientists have put forward many theories as to why this disease occurs.There are two main causes of psoriasis.

1. The causes of the disease are a malfunction of the immune system.Cells that are designed to protect the body from bacteria and viruses enter the upper layer of the epidermis, where they produce substances that trigger the inflammatory process.This causes the skin cells to divide rapidly and the affected area thickens.This theory is supported by an examination of a psoriatic plaque, which revealed a large accumulation of immune cells.
2. The skin disease psoriasis is caused by damage to the division and maturation of epithelial cells.As a result of this pathology, diseased skin cells are attacked by immune cells.

The development of psoriasis is influenced by many factors.The risk of diseases increases if the body is affected by several of the following conditions at the same time.

• With dry and thin skin.Experts noted that people with thick, oily and hydrated skin rarely suffer from psoriasis.This is due to the structural characteristics of the epidermis and the protective functions of sebum.
• Excessive love of hygiene.Unreasonable desire to keep the body constantly clean, too frequent use of soap and wipes damages the skin and reduces its protective properties.
• Bad habits.When smoking and drinking alcohol, the condition of the epidermis deteriorates: subcutaneous blood circulation and tissue nutrition are disrupted.
• Negative factors from outside.According to statistics, the skin disease occurs more often in those who regularly come into contact with detergents, household chemicals, alcoholic solutions, etc.
• Medicines.Chronic use of certain medications, such as antidepressants and anticonvulsants, can cause psoriasis symptoms.
• Infectious diseases.Often the pathology occurs immediately after a disease caused by a fungus or staphylococcus.
• Climate change.Sometimes, moving to a different climate zone is enough to develop psoriasis.
• Skin damage.The first symptoms of psoriasis can be caused by constant wearing of uncomfortable, rough-stitched clothes or poor-quality shoes, and the habit of scratching the same area.
• Tension.Both psychological and physical shocks (such as prolonged hypothermia) can prevent the development of the disease.
• Severe eating disorders.The course of the disease can be complicated by abuse of sweet foods, carbonated drinks, citrus fruits, smoked meats, and salty foods.
• Genetic predisposition.Is it possible to inherit psoriasis?According to scientists, the genes responsible for the activity of the immune system are the carriers of the disease.Therefore, the disease spreads from parents to children.

The life of psoriasis patients

Despite the fact that psoriasis is not an infectious disease and cannot be spread during physical contact with the patient, many patients consider themselves ostracized from society and therefore experience severe psychological discomfort.

The biggest problem is the presence of rashes on the head, ears and face.  More than half of those affected constantly focus on their appearance and fear public condemnation and rejection by society, as psoriasis often looks like lichen.As the disease progresses, the person limits communication with people.Only a quarter of people with psoriasis do not experience stress due to their own appearance.

The disease also causes severe physical discomfort.The constant itching and burning limits the patient's ability to work, interferes with proper rest, often causes insomnia and hinders exercise.Psoriatic arthritis adds joint pain to the unpleasant symptoms.

The psychological distress and physical discomfort can trigger severe depression, and some patients may also experience social phobia.The long-term and expensive treatment of the disease also affects the patient negatively, in addition, it takes away strength and disrupts his socialization.

Why is psoriasis dangerous?

In the initial stage, the disease causes discomfort in a person, which is accompanied by the manifestation of symptoms: itching, burning, peeling.

If psoriasis is not treated, it becomes advanced, which is dangerous for the patient's health and even life.

In many cases, the following dangerous complications develop:

• pathological changes occur in metabolic processes;
• heart function deteriorates, there is a risk of stroke, myocarditis;
• there are disorders in the functioning of the kidneys and liver;
• the joints are affected (most often the fingers, elbows, knees);
• mucous membranes are affected: eyes, gastrointestinal tract, bladder;
• as a result of severe psoriasis, the brain and nervous system are affected;
• potency may weaken in men;
• due to the spread of plaques on the skin, the respiratory function of the skin and the functioning of the sweat and sebaceous glands are disturbed;
• thermoregulation is disrupted, leading to inflammation of the epidermis, which can cause septicemia and, as a result, death.

Erythroderma can be the result of an aggravating disease.

This complication occurs in only 2% of all patients.In the initial stage, it is characterized by the appearance of bright red lesions on the skin, reminiscent of burns.Over time, scales appear in such areas, which peel off in large layers.The skin in this area becomes hot and very sensitive.Other symptoms also appear: tightness, constant itching, brittle nails, severe hair loss, enlarged lymph nodes.

If you notice signs of psoriasis, see a dermatologist immediately.The diagnosis is based on the external examination of the skin and nails.Additional tests are usually not prescribed.If the patient complains of joint pain, X-rays and blood tests are performed to rule out other forms of arthritis.

Only a doctor can make the correct diagnosis and decide how to treat psoriasis.

Treatment methods

It should be noted right away that psoriasis cannot be completely cured.

Winston Churchill also said: "I will erect a monument of pure gold to whoever learns all about psoriasis and finds an effective treatment for this disease."

External preparations

Whatever the cause of psoriasis, the doctor first of all prescribes local remedies that help alleviate the unpleasant symptoms.First, they use non-hormonal lotions, ointments, and creams that contain tar, oil, zinc, or herbs.In most cases, such drugs help to forget the unpleasant signs of psoriasis after 3-4 weeks of use.

If non-hormonal ointments are ineffective, hormone-based drugs are used to treat psoriasis.They must be used strictly as prescribed by the specialist, in no case may you exceed the dose or increase the duration of the treatment.With the help of hormonal ointments, you can quickly forget what it is - psoriasis, but there is a high risk of serious side effects.

Even the newest topical medications must be used with other medications.In addition to ointments, enterosorbents are prescribed, which remove toxic substances from tissues, and immunosuppressants, which are designed to reduce the reaction of the immune system.Treatment is impossible without vitamin complexes, especially vitamins B, A, C, D.

Physiotherapy

These psoriasis treatment methods are widely used in all stages of the disease.Procedures such as baths, light therapy and ultraviolet irradiation give excellent results.

New methods of treating the disease include cryotherapy, electrosurgery, hirudotherapy and PUVA therapy.

In advanced forms of the disease, the use of ultraviolet light has a good effect.Thanks to this method, in just 20-30 procedures, damaged cells are destroyed, exfoliation ceases, damaged skin is restored, and the immune system returns to normal.Before the full procedure is performed, a test session is performed, which exposes a small area of the patient's body to the rays.If the skin reaction is normal, a full course is prescribed.In the summer, the patient is offered to continue the ultraviolet treatment under the natural rays of the sun.

Traditional medicine

Folk remedies for any type of psoriasis can only be used in consultation with a doctor.

It is important to understand that the severe symptoms of psoriasis cannot be eliminated at home.

Traditional recipes only help to soften peeling skin and temporarily eliminate itching.The following products received the best reviews from patients.

Contains:

• in the first days of the onset of the disease, apply tar to the affected areas with a cotton ball for 10 minutes, then wash with tar soap;
• the 4-5.day, increase the duration of the procedure to 40 minutes;
• the entire course is 12 days;
• It is better to use tar before going to bed, as the smell completely disappears during the night.

Celandine:

• put several celandine bushes through a meat grinder, plucked;
• Squeeze the juice from the resulting mass;
• anoint all affected areas of the body with fruit juice;
• repeat the procedure until the external signs of the disease disappear completely.

Egg and vinegar:

• prepare the ointment by beating 2 eggs and 20 ml of vegetable oil;
• add 10 ml of acetic acid to the mass;
• Apply the resulting product to the rashes and plaques every night;
• course: 3-4 weeks.

Herbs:

• Grind 20 g of St. John's wort flowers, 20 g of celandine root, 10 g of marigold flowers and 10 g of propolis into a paste (it is better to do this in a clay bowl);
• add 20 ml of vegetable oil to the herbs;
• Apply the prepared product to the affected areas three times a day;
• You can stop the treatment as soon as the visible signs of the disease disappear.

Elderberry infusion:

• pour 0.5 liters of boiled water into 10 g of elder leaves and flowers;
• leave the infusion at room temperature for half an hour;
• take 80 ml of infusion each time the itching increases after eating;
• course - 10 days.

Diet

No matter what method is used to treat psoriasis, not much improvement can be achieved without following a special diet.To adjust the diet, it is better to contact a specialist who will prepare a menu, taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient.In order for the entry "psoriasis" to no longer appear in the medical history, you must know and follow the general rules of nutrition for patients.In case of this disease, the following should be excluded from the menu:

• any nuts;
• citrus fruits;
• smoked meats;
• spices;
• salinity;
• spicy foods;
• fatty foods;
• alcohol;
• blue cheese.

If you have been diagnosed with psoriasis in your medical history, you should ensure that your diet is balanced.Every day, there should be foods on the table that supply the body with all the necessary substances.

It is especially important to obtain fatty acids, which all types of fish contain in sufficient quantities.

Recommendations for the patient

In order to forget about the disease for a long time, regardless of the type of psoriasis you suffered from, follow the following important rules during and after treatment:

• use gentle skin care: wash with warm water and a neutral product, don't rub your body with a towel, but soak it up carefully;
• give up the usual cosmetics for a while, avoid using products that are new to you;
• Wear protective gloves when doing any household work;
• limit contact with allergens;
• wear clothes and shoes made of natural materials without rough seams;
• drink at least 1.5 liters of clean water per day.

You must understand that it is impossible to completely cure psoriasis.However, if you choose the right means to fight the disease, you can get rid of its unpleasant symptoms and achieve a stable remission.

Keep your skin clean, pay attention to even the smallest changes in your condition, and contact a specialist in case of suspicious symptoms.Taking care of your own body allows you to always stay healthy and beautiful.If you want to stay up to date with interesting information and current news, subscribe to our articles and be sure to share them with your friends on social networks.Goodbye!

This article is for educational, encyclopedic and informational purposes only.You should get your doctor's approval before using the tips and recommendations in this article.Do not self-medicate!