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Treating Psoriasis
Before we can begin treating
psoriasis we must first be clear on exactly what it is.
Psoriasis (pronounced /səˈraɪəsɪs/) is
a chronic, non-contagious disease that affects mainly the skin. It is currently suspected to be autoimmune in origin. It commonly causes red,
scaly patches to appear on the skin, although some patients have no dermatological symptoms. The
scaly patches caused by psoriasis, called psoriatic plaques, are areas of inflammation and excessive skin production.
Skin rapidly accumulates at these sites and takes on a silvery-white appearance. Plaques
frequently occur on the skin of the elbows and knees, but can affect any area including the
scalp, palms of hands and soles of feet, and
genitals. In contrast to eczema, psoriasis is more likely to be found on
the extensor aspect of the joint.
The disorder is
a chronic recurring condition that
varies in severity from minor localized patches to complete body coverage. Fingernails and toenails are
frequently affected (psoriatic nail dystrophy) and can be seen as an isolated finding. Psoriasis
can also cause inflammation of the joints, which is known as psoriatic
arthritis. Ten to fifteen percent of people with
psoriasis have psoriatic
arthritis.
The cause of psoriasis is not known, but it is believed to have
a genetic component. Factors that
may aggravate psoriasis include stress, withdrawal of
systemic corticosteroid, excessive alcohol consumption,
and smoking. There are many treatments available, but because of its chronic
recurrent nature psoriasis is a challenge to treat.
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
O.K. So that is what psoriasis IS. Now how do you go about
treating psoriasis?
As you can see, Psoriasis is not a simple condition/problem to
deal with.
Treatments tend to fall into one of two different
categories:
1. Symptonic relief - to lower the pain, the itching and other
symptoms.
To accomplish this there are several alternatives. You could start
by looking for a good Psoriasis Ointment and Psoriasis Shampoo or checking out the Psoriasis Creams listed here on this website.
2. Preventive measures - to identify what triggers outbreaks in
the particular psoriasis sufferer and avoid triggering future attacks.
That is the approach taken at Psoriasis Free for Life, for which
you can get all the details when you Click
Here.
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