What is psoriasis and why is it dangerous? Full description of the disease

Psoriasis is presented as a non-infectious skin pathology of a chronic nature. Statistics indicate that 3. 7% of the inhabitants of the planet are prone to this disease, which is called squamous lichen. Gender in this case does not matter, psoriasis is not a contagious disease, while the risk group is represented by people aged 14-27 years. A mottled red peel with white scales appears on the skin.

Localization is possible on any part of the body, but the most common places are the scalp, lower back, knees and elbows. Since the disease in question is chronic, it is manifested by periods of remission and exacerbations. How does the pathology affect the life of the patient and how to permanently get rid of psoriasis?

Reasons for the appearance

To understand the causes of psoriasis, it should be understood that the process of the formation of pathology is systemic, the skin and the whole human body are involved in it. The reasons are not entirely clear, they can be viral, infectious, hereditary, neurogenic or mixed. Humoral and cellular immunity is activated, which contributes to the initiation of an autoimmune process of cell damage, mainly epidermal cells.

The metabolism is also disturbed, and the burdened heredity also exacerbates skin psoriasis. As a result, cell regeneration is accelerated by 3-5 times, which leads to the formation of psoriatic plaques. So why does psoriasis occur, in which the quality of life is 80% dependent on the correct treatment and timely detection of the disease:

1. Bad heredity;
2. Depression, constant stress;
3. Dysbacteriosis;
4. Hormone issues;
5. allergic diseases;
6. Candidiasis and streptoderma;
7. Viral pathologies;
8. Addiction;
9. Infections of a parasitic nature;
10. Metabolism problems.

Symptoms

The amount of rashes at the very beginning of the pathology can be considered insignificant. Studying the symptoms will let you know what psoriasis looks like on the body and how to recognize it. Psoriatic plaque plays the role of a key symptom. This is a hyperemic area of skin with scales. Against the background of healthy skin, it looks noticeable and sublime. The presence of the following signs is the reason to consult a dermatologist urgently:

• Convex patches on the skin with light scales;
• Itching in problem areas;
• Excessive dryness of the skin and peeling;
• Painful cracks, blisters in the palms and feet;
• Deformed and exfoliating nail plates.

Types of Psoriasis

The classification of psoriasis involves the division of the disease into different types and forms. The following types of psoriasis should be considered, taking into account the localization of the pathology and the nature of the rashes:

1. Plaque psoriasis on the body is often referred to as vulgar, ordinary or simple. This is the most common variant, which is diagnosed in 85% of the total number of patients. The inflamed areas of the skin have a typical appearance for the disease in question - they easily exfoliate, redden, with fever. The red skin under the scales is easily injured and may bleed. Over time, the plaques coalesce into the so-called paraffin lake.
2. Inverse cutaneous psoriasis affects the surfaces of the flexors. The inflamed areas of the skin are devoid of peeling and almost do not protrude above healthy skin. The localization is represented by the skin folds, namely the folds under the breast, in case of psoriasis in women, the armpits, the area of the external genital organs, the inner surface of the thighs and the skin folds of the groin. When sweat is released, the skin is injured or friction occurs, the condition of the inflamed areas worsens. Diabetics and children are the most common patients.
3. Pustular psoriasis on the skin is characterized by the most complex symptoms. Blisters with a transparent, uninfected exudate of an inflammatory nature rise above healthy areas of the skin. Around the pustules thickened, inflamed, red skin with fever.
4. Rupioid psoriasis in men is characterized not only by plaque-like rashes, but also by acute inflammation of the epidermis. The surface of the skin under the patches is bright pink and oozing.
5. Guttate psoriasis in adults is characterized by an abundant number of small purple or red blisters. The shape of the bubbles can look like circles, teardrops, dots or drops. The affected area is often quite large, it can be psoriasis on the head, neck, shoulders, back, lower legs or thighs. Angina or streptococcal pharyngitis are often provocateurs for the development of the underlying pathology.

Forms of psoriasis

As for the forms of psoriasis, it can be psoriatic erythroderma, arthropathic psoriasis or psoriatic onychodystrophy:

• Psoriatic onychodystrophy, affecting the nails, leads to deformation of the nail plate on the fingers of the lower or upper limbs. It is possible to change the color of the nail itself or the nail bed. This type of psoriasis also leads to the formation of thickenings, cross lines, spots, dots, as well as increased brittleness and delamination. Even complete nail loss is possible.
• Erythrodermic psoriasis in men and women develops gradually and leads to complications. This is a consequence of ignored plaque psoriasis, when the epidermis becomes very red and swollen, characterized by a clear acute inflammatory process. Peeling and inflammation spread over large areas, accompanied by pain, itching and swelling of the subcutaneous tissue. With this form of pathology, a fatal outcome is more likely than with others, since the body loses the ability to regulate body temperature due to severe inflammation, peeling and detachments.
• Psoriatic arthritis, in addition to the main symptoms, is complemented by an inflammatory process in the joints and connective tissues. This form of pathology can affect any joint, but it is most often small joints of the upper and lower limbs. If the disease spreads to the knee or hip joints, there is a high chance of losing the ability to move. The considered form of the disease accounts for 10-15% of all cases of skin disease diagnosis of psoriasis.

Stages of development

The evolution of psoriasis is characterized by three successive stages. Each patient with the disease in question goes through them all, but with proper treatment, the duration of the second stage can be significantly reduced:

1. The progressive phase is characterized by an increase in the first signs and a deterioration of the general condition;
2. In the stationary stage, there is a peak in the development of pathology;
3. The regression stage is represented by a disappearance of symptoms and a significant improvement in general health.

Diagnostic

A dermatovenereologist is engaged in the diagnosis and further treatment of psoriasis, a skin disease. There is usually no difficulty in determining the disease, since the skin lesions are of a special nature. Rarely, additional laboratory tests are needed in the form of a rheumatoid factor determination and a complete blood count. The involvement of a rheumatologist becomes relevant if psoriatic arthritis is diagnosed. In such a situation, it is necessary to make an X-ray of the joints. The advisability of a skin biopsy is observed in extreme cases, when it is difficult to make a differential diagnosis.

Life quality

The occurrence of psoriasis leads to a significant decrease in quality of life. Difficulties may arise during social adaptation and in the sphere of work due to physical and emotional discomfort. Severe itching and pain can complicate basic life processes: sleeping, body care, walking, playing sports, running errands, caring for the house, pets.

On the part of patients, excessive concern for their own appearance is often manifested, they are afraid of a negative reaction from others and have low self-esteem. The pain associated with itching and emotional discomfort often leads to social isolation, anxiety disorders, social phobia and depressive states.

Processing

Getting rid of psoriasis involves an integrated approach using the following categories of drugs and drugs.

Creams and ointments

Ointments and creams allow you to quite effectively fight psoriasis with minimal side effects. These funds are usually applied directly to the inflamed areas:

• Hormonal ointments are among the most effective, they eliminate the main symptoms and block the proliferation of keratinocytes. The strongest means of this category can irritate the skin, cause dryness and thinning of the epidermis.
• Salicylic acid removes psoriatic scales by cleansing the skin. The dosage when using this remedy is extremely important, as excessive use leads to hair loss and skin irritation.
• Retinoids are the active form of vitamin A, they are almost as effective as hormonal ointments, but the clinical effect is achieved longer. Hypersensitivity to ultraviolet light is the most common adverse syndrome.
• Tar ointments reduce the severity of negative symptoms and block the growth of skin cells. Side effects include alopecia, acne or folliculitis.
• An ointment or gel in the form of vitamin D. The combined use with hormonal agents gives the maximum effect.
• Moisturizing creams help to eliminate negative secondary symptoms in the form of dryness and itching, but they are unacceptable as the main method of treatment.
• Anthralin in the composition of ointments helps remove scales, blocks the proliferation of keratinocytes. After applying to the inflamed area, the product should be washed off after some time.

Pills for psoriasis

Since it is not always possible to overcome psoriasis with local therapy, it becomes necessary to supplement the treatment strategy with a tablet form of medication. Side effects can increase dramatically, so it's a must to constantly monitor your overall health through testing and visiting a doctor:

1. Systemic glucocorticosteroids reduce the inflammatory process, swelling and itching, block the increased activity of skin cells. Since side effects are extremely numerous, tablets of the Anna group are rarely prescribed.
2. Psoriasis all over the body can be treated with methotrexate, which has an effective cytostatic and anti-inflammatory effect. The body reacts quite positively to low doses. Rare side effects include increased fatigue, decreased appetite, and digestive issues.
3. Retinoids are effective in cases where psoriasis, a skin condition, cannot be treated by other means. Among the side effects are alopecia and inflammation of the lip area. After using the tablets of this group, you cannot give birth for 3 years, since retinoids provoke the appearance of birth defects.
4. Ciclosporin has a lot in common with methotrexate and belongs to the category of immunosuppressants. An increase in blood pressure and the occurrence of kidney disease are the most common side effects.
5. If the listed drugs cannot be used due to the characteristics of the patient's body, it becomes expedient to prescribe hydroxyurea.

injections

Medications that help get rid of psoriasis can be presented in the form of injections with the following components:

• Antihistamines instantly block acute itching;
• Glucocorticosteroids in the form of injections are used if tablets and ointments containing this component are not effective;
• Biological preparations are the result of the synthesis of human and animal proteins. They have a beneficial effect on the body's immune system, but their price is too high for many patients.

Shampoo application

It is also worth considering special therapeutic shampoos, since only they can get rid of psoriasis on the head:

1. Antifungal shampoos are effective if the causative agent of pathological inflammation is a fungal infection;
2. shampoos containing corticosteroids;
3. Tar soap or shampoo is used to remove psoriatic scales, as well as to reduce burning and itching. It is also acceptable to add birch tar directly to the shampoo that the patient usually uses.

Medications

If the onset of psoriasis is diagnosed in time, many drugs can bring the right result, the specialist will recommend the most suitable.

Biologically active substances

As it is rarely possible to get rid of psoriasis quickly, dietary supplements should be taken as additional maintenance treatment:

1. Vitamin D is useful because calcium is one of the most important minerals in the fight against the skin disease in question, and vitamin D is necessary for its absorption. Use of this supplement at the transition stage from the active phase to the stationary phase is most effective.
2. Silicon in the composition of vitamin-mineral complexes plays the role of a sorbent that attracts antigens, and also improves the condition of the skin.
3. Lecithin is able to quickly restore epithelial cells, which die in this pathology. The integrity of the skin is restored much faster, and the inflammatory process becomes less pronounced.
4. Omega-3 acids and fish oil also contribute to the elimination of the inflammatory process.

Folk approaches to treatment

To increase the effectiveness of drugs, complex therapy can be supplemented with other treatment methods, but do not forget that psoriasis on the back and other areas can be sensitive to allergenic substances. You should therefore first consult your doctor:

• Chinese green tea helps reduce discomfort due to itchy skin, clear up patches. The application is possible inside in the form of a drink or outside in the form of masks on the affected areas.
• Sunbathing can reduce the manifestations of psoriasis, especially in combination with sea water. Ultraviolet exposure should not be direct, it is better to sunbathe in the shade. If you ignore this recommendation, the manifestations of psoriasis are eliminated only for a while, but soon the disease will return with even more pronounced negative symptoms.
• Ointment based on birch tar, salicylic alcohol and sea buckthorn oil should be applied directly to the affected areas for 2 hours. If the psoriasis on the abdomen or back is extensive enough, it is worth putting gauze on the ointment. After washing off the ointment, it is necessary to apply tincture of celandine in the form of oil.
• An infusion of flaxseed can eliminate the clinical symptoms of the disease in question within a week. For a day, soak a spoonful of seeds in a glass of boiling water, then boil, cool and strain, take in the morning before meals in combination with activated carbon (1 tablet per 10 kg of weight). The course should be continued for 20 days, even if the manifestations of psoriasis have disappeared. Products containing caffeine in the composition should not be consumed.
• Propolis and butter in the form of an ointment in a ratio of 1: 20. Mix the ingredients, boil for 15 minutes, strain and apply to the affected areas. The product should be stored in the refrigerator.
• Celery decoctions can be taken orally once a day and a compress can be applied for 2 hours for 21 days. Three courses with a one-week break will be enough to forget about the disease for several years.
• Celandine powder and petroleum jelly in the form of an ointment should be used for 3 days, applied to inflamed skin areas. After a 4-day break, the course continues until the external manifestations completely disappear. To prepare the product, all components are mixed in equal proportions.

Prevention

The prevention of psoriasis, as well as measures to prevent exacerbations, are as relevant as the treatment itself:

1. The cleanliness of the skin should be monitored very carefully, use moisturizers based on natural ingredients.
2. Monitor your general health, especially if you have immune problems. Taking multivitamin complexes is a mandatory part of the prevention of psoriasis.
3. Regular massage improves lymph circulation and blood circulation, due to which the products of decomposition are eliminated faster and the skin is better cleansed.

4. Any contact with household chemicals should be kept to a minimum. Gloves and household respirators are mandatory protective equipment if it is not possible to transfer household chores to other family members. When choosing household chemicals, pay attention to the presence of dyes, chemicals and fragrances. The level of the Christmas tree should be equal to the natural level. It is also worth minimizing the use of cosmetics for skin care and decorative cosmetics.
5. Often the first signs of the disease appear after nervous tension, so it is important to master various methods of relaxation and self-control. The benefits of healthy sleep should not be overlooked. With frequent stress, it is permissible to take soothing herbal tinctures and teas.
6. Smoking is a direct provocateur of exacerbations and the disease itself initially. We are talking about smokers who consume more than 20 cigarettes a day. Under the influence of cigarette smoke, immunity decreases, blood vessels are affected, and the body's antioxidant defense weakens. As for alcohol, it does not influence the appearance of this cutaneous pathology, but it can aggravate its development.

Psoriasis and pregnancy

Pregnancy significantly aggravates the treatment of psoriasis, since the use of far on all drugs is allowed. It is also worth understanding in detail the issue of planning pregnancy and other situations related to this period of a woman's life.

Pregnancy planning

The reproductive function of women and men is not affected by the disease. As for possible harm to the baby, psoriasis is not transmitted by contact, so breastfeeding and communication with the baby will not be a problem. Another thing is the ability of the disease to be transmitted at the genetic level, but the probability is not so great - 8-15% if one of the parents is sick. The risk increases if both parents are affected - 50-60%.

When planning a pregnancy, you must first undergo other treatment to achieve remission. We are talking specifically about a woman, since the condition of the father does not affect the bearing of the fetus. Stress should also be minimized and dealt with responsibly in this aspect.

Pregnancy

As for the pregnancy itself, many note that the course of the pathology is greatly facilitated, but the symptoms worsen immediately after childbirth. This is due to the woman's weakened immune system, as the child actually exhausts the body by absorbing nutrients through the umbilical cord. If there is a need for treatment during gestation, it is worth giving preference to safer means with a minimum likelihood of side effects. Analyze your condition and you can understand how the disease will behave in future pregnancies. Then it should be determined which remedies can be used and which should be avoided.

	Prohibited	advised
Local treatment	Vitamin A preparations are categorically contraindicated.	Glucocorticosteroids in the composition of ointments and creams are acceptable in minimal quantities. On the shoulders, abdomen and in the area of the mammary glands, use is not recommended, since cortisone can cause the appearance of stretch marks.
	Vitamin D preparations are only permitted in small amounts in certain problem areas.	Soothing and moisturizing creams have no contraindications.
Systemic treatment	Methotrexate and acetritin cause miscarriages or fetal malformations. Treatment with these drugs before childbearing requires abstinence from pregnancy for 4 months. moreover, these drugs negatively affect the state of men's sperm, so the rule of observing this period also applies to men.	UV-B phototherapy is not harmful to the unborn child or the mother.
	PUVA therapy during pregnancy is also not suitable, as it requires the prior use of photosensitizing agents.	In severe cases of the disease, cycloporine can be prescribed, which does not have a negative effect on the child's body, but can cause side effects in the mother.

caesarean section

The presence of psoriasis is not a reason to perform a caesarean section during childbirth, but the possibility of Koebner's phenomenon should be considered. We are talking about the appearance of psoriasis in areas where the skin has been damaged. So far, no formal studies have been conducted regarding the healing rate of these areas and the risk of infection.

Psoriasis after childbirth

After childbirth, in most cases, there is an exacerbation of the pathology, the cause of which is stress, fatigue, chronic lack of sleep, irregular and limited diet and hormonal imbalance. Breastfeeding is allowed, since the pathology is not transmitted to the child with milk, however, when using drugs on large areas, lactation is not recommended, since some components can get intoMilk.

No drug can guarantee 100% safety for the mother and the fetus, therefore consultations with the doctor who directs the pregnancy are mandatory.

Despite the fact that psoriasis is chronic, with well-planned treatment, it is possible to successfully eliminate negative symptoms and avoid a decrease in quality of life due to the many limitations associated with the disease.