Introduction

Living with psoriasis can be a challenging and often misunderstood experience.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the skin, causing red, itchy, and scaly patches. Beyond the physical symptoms, psoriasis can have a significant impact on mental and emotional well-being.

The good news is various treatments and management options are available for those living with this autoimmune skin disease.

It is crucial to establish a supportive environment, exchange practical advice, and enhance understanding for more effective control and handling of the condition.

In this blog, we will explore the ins and outs of living with psoriasis, from understanding the condition and its symptoms to exploring treatment options and tackling the mental health challenges that often accompany this condition.

Understanding Psoriasis

When a person has psoriasis, the genes responsible for regulating the immune system send inaccurate signals, leading to excessive growth of skin cells.

Consequently, this rapid cell division results in the formation of thick, red, and scaly patches known as plaques.

The severity of the condition varies from person to person. For some, it is just a minor irritation, but for others, it can affect their quality of life significantly.

It is a lifelong condition that can go through periods of remission when there are no symptoms or mild symptoms, followed by flare-ups when symptoms are more severe.

Although psoriasis primarily affects the skin, it can also give rise to other illnesses. These additional health issues are commonly known as comorbidities.

A comorbidity is a health problem that arises due to or is connected with an existing health condition, like psoriasis.

Frequently associated comorbidities of psoriasis include psoriatic arthritis, cardiovascular (heart) disease, metabolic syndrome, and mental health issues.

Successfully treating or managing your psoriasis doesn't just handle the symptoms on your skin—it can also play a role in potentially lowering the risk of developing these illnesses.

Managing the condition effectively and leading a fulfilling life with the right approach and self-care strategies is possible which we will get to later in the blog.

Types of Psoriasis

Plaque Psoriasis:

This type is the most prevalent and manifests as elevated, red areas of skin covered by scales that are white with a silvery hue. It typically occurs on the scalp, torso, and limbs, particularly on the elbows and knees.

Guttate Psoriasis:

Typically affecting children or young adults, this type presents as small red spots, commonly found on the torso or limbs. An upper respiratory tract infection, such as strep throat often triggers it.

Pustular Psoriasis:

In this type, there is the appearance of pus-filled bumps known as pustules surrounded by red skin. Typically, it targets the hands and feet, although there is a version that extends to cover a significant portion of the body.

Inverse Psoriasis:

This type of psoriasis affects the areas where the skin folds, such as the armpits, groin, and beneath the breasts. Instead of the typical scales, they appear smooth, and shiny and have red patches. It can be particularly uncomfortable due to the friction and moisture in these areas.

Erythrodermic Psoriasis:

It is a severe and rare form of psoriasis that affects the entire body. It causes widespread redness, scaling, and shedding of the skin, often accompanied by intense itching and pain. This condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.

What Causes Psoriasis?

The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown. However, it is believed to be a combination of genetic factors, immune system dysfunction, and environmental triggers.

Family history plays a significant role, as individuals with a family member affected by psoriasis are more likely to develop the condition.

However, it is possible to develop psoriasis with no family history of the condition.

Additionally, certain triggers, such as stress, cold weather, sleep deprivation, infections, and medications, can exacerbate or trigger psoriasis flare-ups.

It is important to know that psoriasis is not contagious.

Common Triggers of Psoriasis

Triggers for psoriasis differ from individual to individual. What might exacerbate your psoriasis could not affect someone else.

Common psoriasis triggers include:

• Stress
• Sleep Deprivation
• Cold weather
• Illness (especially Strep infection)
• Injury to the skin (sunburn, insect bites, vaccinations)
• Allergies (certain foods, alcohol, or other environmental triggers)

A helpful approach to understanding your specific triggers involves tracking them over time.

Maintaining a record of your symptoms and potential triggers can assist you in anticipating and managing flare-ups effectively.

Psoriasis Symptoms

Psoriasis manifests in different ways, with symptoms varying from person to person. The symptoms of psoriasis can also differ based on the type.

The most common symptoms include:

• Red patches of skin with silvery scales
• Itching
• Dryness and scaly skin
• Joint pain & inflammation (psoriatic arthritis in severe cases)

The patches can be red with white scales on lighter skin, and darker skin, the patches can be purplish, violet, or brown with grey scales. They can surface anywhere on the body, but most appear on the scalp, eyelids, elbows, knees, and lower back.

The severity of symptoms can fluctuate, and flare-ups can happen due to many triggers that we already discussed.

Mental Health Aspect of Living with Psoriasis

The visible nature of psoriasis lesions, coupled with potential discomfort and associated health concerns, can create challenges that reach into various aspects of daily life.

The visible nature of the condition can lead to self-consciousness, low self-esteem, negative self-image, embarrassment, and shame. Simple activities like getting dressed or going swimming can become sources of anxiety.

The social stigma associated with the condition can lead to isolation and a diminished sense of self-esteem. The condition may lead to challenges in forming relationships and participating in social activities.

Coping with the unpredictability of flare-ups and the chronic nature of the disease can contribute to emotional distress.

It is not uncommon for individuals with psoriasis to experience depression, anxiety, or a decreased quality of life.

Seeking support from loved ones, joining support groups, or consulting with a mental health professional can be beneficial in coping with the emotional challenges of psoriasis.

Treatment of Psoriasis

While there is currently no cure for psoriasis, various treatment options are available to manage and control the symptoms.

Recent research indicates that effectively managing the inflammation caused by psoriasis can reduce the risk of developing heart disease, stroke, metabolic syndrome, and other ailments associated with inflammation.

There are many treatments for psoriasis. Usually, the treatment is to keep the condition under control.

The treatment option can vary depending on the type, severity of the condition, and the area of skin affected.

Common treatments include:

Topical Treatment: Creams, ointments, and shampoos to reduce inflammation and itching.

Phototherapy: Exposure to certain ultraviolet light

Systemic Medications or Biologic Therapy: Oral and injected medications

It is crucial to work closely with a dermatologist to find the right treatment plan. Always consult with a physician before taking any medications.

How to Manage Physical and Emotional Well-being while Living with Psoriasis?

Moisturize

Regular moisturising, appropriate use of prescribed topical treatments, and avoiding triggers can help manage psoriasis symptoms. Opt for fragrance-free products to avoid skin irritation.

Avoid Triggers

Identifying and avoiding triggers that worsen psoriasis symptoms can be helpful. Flare-ups can be minimised when specific triggers are identified and managed.

Healthy Diet

Although there is no specific psoriasis diet, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet benefits overall well-being. Incorporate foods rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins into your meals.

Stress Management

Stress can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms. Stress-relieving activities like yoga, meditation, or exercise can help manage stress levels and improve overall well-being.

Seek Support

Seeking support from mental health professionals, support groups, or friends and family can provide an outlet for emotional expression and coping strategies.

Raise Awareness

Raising awareness about psoriasis, educating friends and colleagues, and joining psoriasis support groups can help combat misconceptions and create a supportive social environment free from judgment  or stigma.

Financial Support

The cost of psoriasis treatments and medications can lead to financial strain. Exploring insurance coverage, and patient assistance programs, and discussing cost-effective treatment options with healthcare providers can help alleviate this burden.

Educational Empowerment

Understanding psoriasis, its triggers, and effective management strategies is empowering. Regularly updating oneself on the latest treatment options, participating in patient education programs, and staying informed about advancements in psoriasis research can contribute to a sense of control and self-efficacy.

FAQs

Is psoriasis contagious?

Psoriasis is not contagious. It is an autoimmune condition, and individuals cannot "catch" it from someone with psoriasis.

Can psoriasis be cured?

There is currently no cure for psoriasis, but various treatment options are available to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

How can I manage psoriasis flare-ups?

Managing psoriasis flare-ups involves identifying and avoiding triggers, following prescribed treatment plans, and adopting a healthy lifestyle.

Is there a link between diet and psoriasis?

While there is no specific psoriasis diet, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet may help manage symptoms. Some individuals find relief by avoiding certain trigger foods.

Conclusion

Living with psoriasis may present challenges, but it doesn't define who you are or what you're capable of. Each day becomes an opportunity to embrace your uniqueness and strive for a fulfilling life.

It is crucial to remember that you are not alone in this journey. 

Seeking support from healthcare professionals, building a strong support network, and adopting proactive strategies for self-care can empower people living with psoriasis to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives despite the challenges posed by the condition.

You need to let their voice be heard, express your emotions, and seek the help you need. 

The collective effort can break down the barriers of judgment and stigma, leading to the creation of a world where everyone can thrive. 

References

• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, Psoriasis, Available at: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/psoriasis#:~:text=Overview%20of%20Psoriasis,can%20be%20affected%20as%20well.
  
• Mayo Clinic, Psoriasis, Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355840
• WebMD, Psoriasis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment. Available at: https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/psoriasis/understanding-psoriasis-basics
• Cleveland Clinic, What It is, Symptoms, Causes, Types & Treatment, Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/6866-psoriasis
• National Psoriasis Foundation, About Psoriasis, Available at: https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis/
• National Health Service, Living with Psoriasis, Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/psoriasis/living-with/