World Psoriasis Day
World Psoriasis Day (29 October) is an annual event specially dedicated to people with psoriasis/psoriatic arthritis.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis patients commonly present with red thickened, scaling skin. The thick scales are caused by rapid replication of skin cells triggered by inflammatory response. The same inflammatory chemicals can also attack the joints causing joint pain (arthritis) if left untreated. On contrary to public’s understanding, psoriasis is NEITHER cancerous NOR contagious and therefore it does not spread from close contact and touching.
What will you experience if you have psoriasis?
Most types of psoriasis go through cycles, flaring for a few weeks or months, then subsiding for a time or even going into complete remission.
- Red patches of skin covered with thick, silvery scales
- Small scaling spots (commonly seen in children)
- Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
- Itching, burning or soreness
- Thickened, pitted or ridged nails
- Swollen and stiff joints
What can increase the chances of getting psoriasis?
- Positive family history of psoriasis
- Alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Stressful life events
- Infections
- Injury / Trauma to skin (cuts, abrasions, sunburn)
- Excessive sun exposure
- Lacking of Vitamin D
- Medications
What can we do to control psoriasis?
- Avoid unhealthy lifestyle (smoking, consumption of excessive of alcohol)
- Have a balance diet
- Prevent dry skin by apply sufficient moisturizers that does not contain fragrance (cream, lotion)
- Remove excessive dead skin and reduce inflammation by using pine tar solution
- Avoid perfume and take daily bath with gentle shower gel
- Take supplements that may reduce the intensity of inflammation
- Omega 3 Fatty acid (with not least than 2000mg per day)
- Turmeric
- Vitamin D
- Reduce stressful event and occasion
- Get sufficient sun exposure at the right time (best at morning and evening) avoid noon time
- If you are on treatment, follow the doctor and pharmacist advices on proper management plans
- Control psoriasis is similar to completing a marathon not sprint; there are not short cuts or instant cure. The key of managing is patience and consistent
Up to date, psoriasis can be effectively controlled with current modern treatment. Support from family members and friends can largely improve the Quality of Life of the affected individuals. Seek aid from your doctors to understand more on your condition and ask your fellow pharmacist regarding the proper use of medicine and supplement.
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