What Is Psoriasis And Do You Have It?
Psoriasis is an overproduction of skin cells afflicting the skin. Uniquely, the body produces skin cells quicker than it can shed them.
The production of new skin cells happens in a matter of days in someone with this condition which should occur in a month approx.
There are several types, which have different appearances. Plaque psoriasis is the most common form.
It appears as a rough patch on the skin that is red and scaly. Some sufferers experience a mild to intense itchy sensation.
Furthermore, this condition can appear anywhere on the body. It most often occurs in adults ages 30-50 but can occur in children as well.
Different types can look similar to other conditions such as eczema or fungal infection. Therefore, it is dire to seek a professional to diagnose the condition.
Who Treats Psoriasis?
Several specialists provide psoriasis treatment. These include a Dermatologist, a Naturopath, an Osteopath, and a Chiropractor.
Since the condition can affect multiple systems in the body, a Dermatologist may refer you to an alternative specialist to provide additional treatment.
Dermatologist- Treat conditions affecting the skin, hair, and nails.
Naturopathic Doctor – Naturally treats illness using holistic methods and herbs.
Osteopath- Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine can prescribe modern medication. They also perform manual therapy and massage to restore joint function and other processes of the musculoskeletal system.
Chiropractor- Perform adjustments to the spine to correct misalignments to improve immune function. They do not prescribe medication.
Where Psoriasis Comes From?
The cause of the condition is widely unknown and chalked up to be the result of immune dysfunction. The immune system becomes hypersensitive and views healthy parts of the body as an invader.
Some alternative medicine practitioners like John Pagano believe the condition is due to a “leaky gut.” The intestinal lining weakens and thins, allowing excessive toxins to escape and enter the bloodstream.
The body then tries to purge the toxins through the skin’s sweat glands, resulting in psoriasis. Dr. John Pagano, a chiropractor from Englewood, wrote Dr. John’s Healing Psoriasis Cookbook dedicated to healing psoriasis through food.
Why Psoriasis Flares Up?
Flare-ups happen due to various factors like stress, hormones, infection, medication, sunburn, cold weather, injury, drugs, and alcohol use. Additionally, certain types of foods and drinks can worsen the condition.
Which Psoriasis is Dangerous?
The severity is determined by the type and the percentage of body coverage. Erythrodermic Psoriasis is considered life-threatening, provided that a large portion of the body is affected by increased inflammation and shedding.
The inflammation occurs as intense itching, redness, and pain. It can fatally affect the sufferer’s body temperature and heart rate.
However, this is a rare form of the condition, affecting a small percentage of the population.
Can You Catch It?
Psoriasis is not contagious. It is an autoimmune response that can’t spread to others.
How It Affects Mental Health?
Psoriasis can negatively impact mental health for sufferers causing low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety. Some choose to isolate themselves from society and report that it prevents them from working due to constant stares and questions.
Dealing with the pain and treating the symptoms can result in another downward toll on mental health.
If you have this condition, you are not alone. An estimated 125 million people worldwide; are impacted by psoriatic disease. If you need someone to talk to for emotional support, contact 800-723-9166, the National Psoriasis Foundation Helpline.
The Foundation currently offers a free guide on Psoriasis.org with the most up-to-date information on treating and understanding Psoriasis.
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