Cochineal lichen is one of the most common dermatological diseases. It is known that about 5% of the inhabitants of the planet experience the symptoms of skin psoriasis of the first stage (scaly). The cause of this disease lies in the inadequate reaction of the body when exposed to external stimuli. And if in a healthy body the duration of the period of skin cell renewal is about 3-4 weeks, then in patients with this pathology it is reduced to 4-5 days.
Causes and signs of the initial stage of psoriasis
To date, the reasons why psoriasis appears at an early stage have not yet been fully elucidated. However, the trigger leading to the disease is thought to be severe stress. In addition, among the possible reasons, experts distinguish the following:
- transferred infections;
- response to cold climates;
- certain dietary habits (abuse of spicy dishes, marinades);
- unhealthy lifestyle (especially alcoholism);
- hereditary factor.
Stage One Psoriasis Symptoms
It is important to recognize psoriasis at an early stage. After all, the timely start of treatment helps to avoid the deterioration of the condition and the spread of the disease to other organs.
The first signs of the disease can be seen on the elbows. Psoriasis of the initial stage looks more like a small rash, a little later small nodules form. After a while they grow, connect with each other. Then plaques of different sizes appear on the affected areas of the skin. They whiten and peel off.
Does psoriasis itch in the initial stage? Dermatologists often give a positive answer to this question. Especially bothersome itching where plaque buildup is greatest:
- on the elbows;
- on the knees;
- in places where the integrity of the skin is broken (there are cuts or cracks).
The first signs of the disease often appear in places that are constantly touched by clothing. This is especially evident in children. That is why psoriasis in the first stage is often confused with manifestations of diathesis or allergies to products used for laundry. This is the most dangerous mistake. After all, treatment started as soon as the first rash appears is much more effective than therapy prescribed later.
Experts distinguish three main signs that accurately indicate an autoimmune problem and do not allow to confuse it with another skin disease:
- A stain that looks like crushed stearin. This happens due to the exfoliation of the scales.
- The appearance of the so-called terminal film under the scales.
- The appearance of bruises on the skin (dew droplets of blood).
In the initial stage of psoriasis, the symptoms (rashes) disappear after about 2 months. If left untreated, they will reappear after some time, but in a much larger volume.
Treatment of the initial stage of psoriasis
Doctors carefully approach the treatment of the initial form of the disease. And, if two decades ago, at the first signs, quite serious drugs were often prescribed, including hormonal drugs and cytostatics, then modern tactics are aimed at eliminating the cause of the exacerbation - patients are advisedto avoid stress, to review their nutrition, to lead a measured lifestyle. To eliminate unpleasant symptoms, specialists prescribe topical non-hormonal agents, including ointments, gels, shampoos prepared on the basis of:
- birch, pine or juniper tar;
- fat;
- oil;
- anti-inflammatories (salicylic ointment and zinc).
With psoriasis of the initial stage, treatment also involves the use of fatty creams enriched with vitamins A and E. Ointments containing hormonal agents are used in cases where the use of topical non-hormonal agents does not bring reliefrelief.
Also, a good effect in psoriasis at the initial stage is observed after applying a course of physiotherapy procedures:
- electrosleep, which has a sedative effect;
- ultraviolet irradiation with waves of different lengths (311-312 nm, as well as 310-340 nm);
- ultrasonic exposure to vibration with a wide frequency range (800-3000 kHz);
- laser therapy;
- cryotherapy.
Drugs and procedures used to treat the initial stage of psoriasis, the doctor prescribes them individually, focusing on the severity of symptoms, the patient's age and the body's response to treatment.
Home treatment
To alleviate the condition at the initial stage of psoriasis, home treatment should be combined with a prescribed doctor. For most patients, dermatologists recommend starting with a change in diet, completely giving up fatty meats, smoked meats, hot spices, coffee, chocolate, and alcohol. You need to diversify the diet with fresh fruits and vegetables (especially leafy), sour milk and fish products.
In order not to further irritate the skin, it is recommended to use baby or tar soap for washing. Baths with collections of medicinal herbs (tricolor violets, succession, celandine, hops and others) and sea salt help well.
Experts also recommend not to refuse trips to resorts where mud treatment is practiced, to the sea coast. At the same time, you should not choose the hottest months of the year to relax. At moderate temperatures, spa treatments, mud applications and seawater baths provide a lasting effect.
Conclusion
When wondering whether it is possible to cure psoriasis at the initial stage, there is no doubt. By consulting a doctor in a timely manner, there is a high probability of forgetting about the problem for a long time.