Health Services
Self Care

Psoriasis

Description
Psoriasis is a skin disorder affecting 2-5% of the population. It is a chronic condition equally common in men and women and usually develops between the ages of 20-40. Although psoriasis appears to be at least partially hereditary, the exact cause of the disease is unknown. The first episode may be triggered by injury to the skin, some infections (for example, strep throat), and some drugs. As some individuals may be self-conscious because of the appearance of the lesions, most cases can be managed effectively.

The manifestations of psoriasis are extremely variable. There may be one or many affected areas. Psoriasis may persist for a lifetime or go into a long period of remission. It frequently improves in the summer due to exposure to the sun.

Symptoms
Areas of the skin affected by psoriasis are red and raised with a sharp border. These areas are usually covered by silvery or white flakes; the flakes are caused by a rapid overgrowth of skin cells. Psoriasis can occur anywhere on the body but is most commonly found on the elbows, knees, scalp, and extremities. The nails may be affected which can result in pitting or deformity. Approximately 10% of those with psoriasis develop an associated arthritis. Other skin lesions may look like psoriasis so it is important to seek medical care to verify diagnosis.

Treatment
No medication which consistently reduces psoriasis has been identified, but many medications are available which control the disease. The goals of treatment involve trying to decrease the rapid overgrowth of skin cells, reducing itching or other irritation, and minimizing the recurrence of the rash.

The following suggestions may help to ease the symptoms of psoriasis:

Apply bland moisturizing creams to soothe dry skin and help relieve itching.

Use steroid (cortisone) creams to soothe dry skin and help alleviate more severe symptoms. Consult with your clinician for continuing treatment with steroid preparations because they can cause thinning of the skin if used for more than a week.

Exposure to sunlight helps ease psoriasis. Individuals with sensitive skin, however, should be cautious and avoid the risk of severe sunburn. Excessive sun can also lead to premature aging and skin cancer.

Other treatments such as topical tar shampoos and other preparations, exposure to light, and oral medications may help resistant cases. See your clinician at the Health Center for more information on these.

Prevention
To avoid triggering psoriasis:

• Prevent skin injuries which may either prompt an attack or make psoriasis worse. For example, avoid irritating the skin by plucking eye brows, using too dull or sharp a razor, or wearing clothing or shoes that rub or pinch.
• Consumption of alcoholic beverages may make skin diseases worse.
• Use a humidifier if the environment is to dry.
• Do not use detergents, harsh soaps or chemicals that may dry the skin further.
• To minimize itching, use a moisturizer.
• Minimize stress which may aggravate symptoms.

More Information/Questions
For more information, Messiah students may call the Health Center at 691-6035.