Psoriasis

This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace consultation with a healthcare professional. If you experience symptoms of psoriasis, consult a dermatologist for timely diagnosis and treatment.

Does Rilassáre's complementary medicine replace traditional medicine?

No. Our complementary medicine protocols (nutrition, psychological support, and general medicine) are designed as an adjunct to the treatment a patient may already be receiving, never as a substitute. Every case is individually assessed by our medical team, since no intervention is free of risk and its suitability depends on each person's clinical history.

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that evolves in flare-ups. It is characterized by red patches with whitish scales, typically found on the scalp, elbows, and knees, and may cause a burning sensation and itching.

Symptoms of psoriasis

Common signs and symptoms of psoriasis include:

• • An irregular rash that varies greatly from person to person, ranging from a few dandruff-like scaling spots to widespread outbreaks across the body.
• • Rashes that vary in color, appearing violet with gray scales on darker skin tones or pink/reddish with silver scales on lighter skin tones.
• • Small, scaly spots (commonly seen in children).
• • Dry, cracked skin that may bleed.
• • Itching, burning, or soreness.
• • Cyclical rashes that last for a few weeks or months and then subside.

Causes of psoriasis

Psoriasis is believed to be an immune system disorder that causes skin cells to grow faster than normal. In the most common type, plaque psoriasis, this rapid cell turnover results in dry, scaly patches.

The exact cause of psoriasis is not fully understood. It is thought to involve an immune malfunction where infection-fighting cells mistakenly attack healthy skin cells. Both genetic and environmental factors likely play a role. The condition is not contagious.

Types of psoriasis

There are several types of psoriasis:

• • Plaque psoriasis. The most common form, it causes dry, raised, itchy patches covered with scales. It usually appears on the elbows, knees, lower back, and scalp.
• • Nail psoriasis. Can affect fingernails and toenails, causing pitting, abnormal growth, and discoloration.
• • Guttate psoriasis. Mainly affects children and young adults. It is typically triggered by a bacterial infection, such as strep throat.
• • Inverse psoriasis. Mainly affects skin folds in the groin, buttocks, and breasts, causing smooth patches of inflamed skin that worsen with friction and sweating.
• • Pustular psoriasis. A rare form that causes clearly defined, pus-filled blisters.
• • Erythrodermic psoriasis. The least common type, it can cover the entire body with a peeling rash that may itch or burn intensely.

Psoriasis diagnosis

Psoriasis is typically diagnosed clinically, and a biopsy is rarely needed for confirmation. Diagnosis and treatment selection should always be handled by a doctor or dermatologist.

Psoriasis treatment

Psoriasis treatment depends on the severity and extent of symptoms, and should always be directed by a doctor or dermatologist. It generally focuses on skin care, aiming to remove scales and slow down rapid skin cell growth.

• • Topical ointments, phototherapy, and medications your doctor may prescribe to provide relief.
• • Medical procedures, such as photodynamic therapy.
• • Medications such as steroids, vitamin A derivatives, anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, and vitamins, always under medical prescription.
• • Self-care measures, such as stress management, petroleum jelly, ultraviolet light therapy, emollients, urea, and coal tar, as recommended by your treating physician.

Risk factors

Anyone can develop psoriasis. About one-third of cases begin in childhood. The following factors may increase the risk:

• • Family history. Psoriasis is hereditary. If one parent has it, the risk increases; if both do, the risk is even higher.
• • Smoking. Tobacco use not only raises the risk of psoriasis but may also worsen the severity.

Complications of psoriasis

• • Psoriatic arthritis, causing joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.
• • Temporary skin discoloration in areas where plaques have healed.
• • Eye conditions such as conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and uveitis.
• • Obesity.
• • Type 2 diabetes.
• • High blood pressure.
• • Cardiovascular disease.
• • Other autoimmune diseases such as celiac disease, sclerosis, and inflammatory bowel disease.
• • Mental health conditions such as low self-esteem and depression.

Psoriasis prevention

There is no known way to prevent psoriasis. Keeping the skin moisturized and clean and avoiding identified triggers may help reduce the frequency of flare-ups. Consulting a dermatologist for a personalized care plan is recommended.

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