Everyday life with psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease characterized by an overreaction of the skin’s immune system. It can appear as inflammation and cause rashes on the body’s largest organ, the skin. The disease varies greatly from person to person in terms of size, location, and duration of outbreaks. Affected individuals experience quiet periods that can last from weeks to years, but the risk of new outbreaks is always present. It initially appears as a red rash covered with adherent white scales. This skin change is also called a psoriasis plaque. The rash formation can cover larger areas or appear as smaller, round or drop-shaped red spots. It is not contagious and is only mildly irritating for most people in daily life. However, about 10-20% of people with psoriasis experience severe itching. Psoriasis can also affect the nails, which is often painful and problematic, as the nails may fall off and the skin underneath can be red and scaly. This form of psoriasis is often accompanied by psoriatic arthritis, which can be significantly disabling in severe cases.

The Cause of Psoriasis

It is impossible to determine the exact cause of psoriasis. However, a certain connection between psoriasis and specific environmental factors has been proven. Among other things, psoriasis is a hereditary disease, and it is estimated that a child has a 40-50% chance of inheriting the disease if both parents have it. Stress is also a contributing factor, and a connection between drug use and certain types of medications has also been found.

What Relieves Psoriasis?

You can treat psoriasis locally with ointments and creams prescribed by your doctor. These are typically creams with vitamin D and/or corticosteroids. In special cases, it is believed that the effect is better if the affected skin area is covered with plastic wrap after applying the cream. Tar is also an effective treatment in the form of tar baths, where a rubbing with tar is applied after a hot bath. However, this treatment is usually carried out in an inpatient setting.

Psoriasis that occurs on the scalp is often treated with a special tar-containing shampoo or alcoholic solutions that contain corticosteroids. If this is not enough, treatment with infrared light therapy can be added. The infrared light, such as from a sauna towel, soothes the body and skin while reducing the risk and severity of outbreaks. It is important to contact your doctor to ensure the most effective combination of treatments.

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