A huge number of individuals are plagued by a variety of skin disorders that may or may not have adverse effect with their appearance. Plaque psoriasis however often stands out with their identifiable traits appearing as raised, red patches covered with a silvery white buildup of dead skin cells or scale. They are often itchy while at the same time painful and this is because they can crack and bleed. Let us look at what causes plaque psoriasis as well as the remedies available that offers relief to the skin disorder.

The Cause of Psoriasis

The direct cause of psoriasis is still unclear to many scientists. With that being said, contrary to popular belief, one cannot get plaque psoriasis through contact with someone who has it. Genetics and family history are one of the main contributing factors that can cause someone to develop the disorder. For instance, if a person has an immediate family with the skin condition, the risk of developing psoriasis increases.

Your body’s immune system can also be attributed in the development of plaque psoriasis. Some patients reported that a stressful event, an injury or an infection led to its development. In some cases, patients got the disease by taking certain medicines, such as lithium, or medicine to prevent malaria.

Finding Relief for Plaque Psoriasis

It should be noted that an absolute plaque psoriasis treatment is not available as they do not exist yet. There is no cure for psoriasis however; patients will be able to reduce the severity of its symptoms. This in turn makes the condition more manageable and less troubling than before.

One of the main goals for treating psoriasis is to reduce the inflammation and plaque formation while at the same time, stop the skin cells from quickly growing. Another goal is to help the skin become smoother by removing the scales.

It is good to hear that patients today will not be finding any shortage of plaque psoriasis treatments that are available in the present. This in turn gives patients the option to choose a particular treatment that is able to cater to their preference and needs. This includes topical treatments, light therapy and systemic medications.

Topical treatments can range from topical corticosteroid, vitamin D analogues, topical retinoids, salicylic acid, coal tar and even moisturizers. On the other hand, sunlight is a good source of light therapy and is also basically free. Patients can also get controlled doses of UVB coming from their doctors with UVB phototherapy. Last but definitely not the least are the oral or injected medications for psoriasis which includes retinoids, methotrexate, cyclosporine and the likes.

Psoriasis can also affect the scalp and treating the affected area may prove to be quite a challenge especially since the hair can get in the way. Fortunately, there are over the counter treatment options for scalp psoriasis which includes shampoos that have coal tar as well as salicylic acid ingredients that works great in the hair without damaging them. Consider the remedies mentioned above in treating plaque psoriasis.

Plaque psoriasis is a troublesome disease that affects the skin. It is a persistent skin disorder that is identified by patches of abnormal skin. Since plaque psoriasis is considered to be a chronic condition, patients are expected to manage them long term. For that matter, many find it important to know what causes the development of this long-lasting autoimmune disease. Is plaque psoriasis genetic?

The Role of Genetics

Research have shown some links between psoriasis and genetics. Around one-third of people with psoriasis have reported to have a family history of the disease. Parents have 10 percent chance of spreading psoriasis to their child if they have one. Furthermore, studies suggest that there is a 70% chance that an identical twin may develop the same disorder if the other sibling has one. This in turn has led to the assumption the plaque psoriasis is considered to be a genetic disease. With that being said, genetics and heredity are not the only factors that can lead to the development of psoriasis especially since there is a likelihood that it can skip generations. This is the reason why genes are simply not enough to determine what causes psoriasis especially since the environment has also played an integral role with their development.

Environmental Factors

People can also develop early symptoms of plaque psoriasis due to their lifestyle. These include chronic infections, stress, and changes in season and climate. Other factors such as hot water, scratching psoriasis skin lesions, skin dryness, excessive alcohol consumption, cigarette smoking, and obesity are also known to contribute greatly in making a person susceptible to the disease. Aside from that emotional stress and trauma can also can cause an episode of psoriasis and the same can also be said with regard to certain drugs which can have a risk of aggravating psoriasis as well.

Is Plaque Psoriasis Contagious?

Now that we know the role of genetics with psoriasis, others have negative stigma behind it assuming it to be contagious. However, psoriasis is not considered to be a skin infection so it cannot magically transfer from one person to another. They cannot be not transmitted sexually nor be transferred through airborne or physical contact. Psoriasis, however, can spread from one area of the skin resulting to additional body sites developing psoriasis lesions. These include elbows, knees, scalp, ears, low back, as well as between the buttocks.

For patients who have discovered that their families have a history of psoriasis, they know that there are treatments and medications you can pursue to help alleviate the symptoms. In fact, there are even home remedies available offering quick and easy relief from these symptoms. However, the best form of treatment is offered by the professionals. For that matter, make sure that you get in touch with your doctor on a regular basis as you work hand in hand together in managing your skin condition. These individuals will also be able to provide you with timely and effective treatment that caters to your preference and needs. Schedule an appointment today!

 

Scalp psoriasis is defined as psoriasis that grows on the scalp. It is a common condition that affects about half of those who are affected by psoriasis in general. This has to be researched well since it is not that easy to treat this condition. Most often, it requires especially formulated medications.

This type of psoriasis grows in the same manner as the other types, but the problem is that it gets entangled in the hair and is easily rubbed off on other parts. With scalp psoriasis, it is quite easy for the scales to build up which results to thicker plaque which can be more difficult to eliminate. Treating it is made more complicated with the presence of hair since it serves as physical barrier when applying ointment or cream on the affected area.

It’s quite easy to know if a person has scalp psoriasis. It is indicated by scales and redness that are visible on the hairline, forehead, behind the ears, and also at the nape. The symptoms can range from mild, to slightly fine, and severely crusted and thick scaling that affects the entire head, and at times it brings about temporary hair loss.

It is essential to have appropriate diagnosis of psoriasis on the scalp to implement the right treatment. There are several skin disorders that have almost the same symptoms as psoriasis, such as seborrhoeic dermatitis. The only difference seborrhoeic dermatitis has is that its scales are yellowish and greasy. What makes it frustrating and embarrassing is that you would have a constant supply of flakes on your shirt collar or shoulders.

When it comes to scalp psoriasis treatment, it’s the same for both adults and children. Yes, children can suffer from this type of psoriasis too. There are many treatment options for this condition, but the important thing is that it has to be applied regularly. It can be time-consuming as well; hence, it is crucial to choose one that matches your lifestyle. This type of psoriasis is also known for spontaneous remissions but it also has the tendency to stay on the scalp for a long period of time.

The following are some popular scalp psoriasis treatment options:

Tar creams, ointments, shampoos, and gels are popular treatments for psoriasis on the scalp. This can be used along with salicylic acid that removes the scale and coconut oil for moisturizing the scalp. Tar is known for effectiveness; but it is also known for staining the clothes and jewelry, and it gives off an awful smell.

There are also topical steroids that can be used in the form of gels, shampoos, foams, sprays, and liquids. They may range from super mild to the strongest, and they should not be used for a long period. It has to be used for a few weeks regularly until gradually stopping its application. For maintenance, one may use tar shampoo.

Vitamin D analogues can also be applied through water- or oil-based solutions. They should be applied to the scalp once or twice daily and left there. They’re easy to apply, and they don’t smell or stain.

 

Scalp psoriasis is a cause for concern to a huge number of individuals all over the world. Although it does not directly cause hair loss, scalp psoriasis brings to the table a lot of itching and discomfort along the way. This in turn makes sufferers prone to scratching their head a lot while picking at the scaly spots which can lead to temporary hair loss. The same can also be said with regard to stress and harsh treatments as this can also contribute to gradual hair loss. Many however were able to find a huge amount of relief from their scalp psoriasis in the form of shampoos. Let us look at a few shampoo options you can use to help treat the condition.

The Role of Shampoo

Shampoos are often included into the mix when discussing scalp psoriasis treatment. Psoriasis shampoo is a popular choice due to the fact that its medication will be able to reach target areas in a timely and effective manner. In contrast, topical medications will have a much harder time to heal the affected area because of the hair blocking its path. Shampoos on the other hand can help gently loosen the scales in the scalp while at the same time helps keep severe dandruff under control.

Types of Psoriasis Shampoo

It should be noted that there are a number of psoriasis shampoo brands patients can consider for their treatment. The two types of psoriasis shampoo include coal tar as well as the medicated ones. Coal tar is used on the hair and scalp to treat dandruff as well as other scaly, itchy skin conditions. The shampoo possesses a keratolytic nature which helps slow bacterial growth while at the same time contributes greatly in loosing and softening scales and crust in your scalp.

Assisting with the removal of flakes caused by your dandruff or psoriasis is what medicated shampoos excel on. Furthermore, they also aid in removing the buildup of dry, flaking skin. In addition, some medicated shampoos are able to refresh and invigorate the patient’s scalp during the cleaning process with the help of its menthol properties. This in turn reduces the likelihood of patients scratching their head very often.

Consult with Your Doctors

Even though psoriasis shampoos are very much accessible to the public with stores setting up and integrating their products over the internet, patients are still advised to get in touch with their doctors first before their purchase and acquisition. A number of patients have reported irritation when using coal tar shampoo only to find out that they are allergic to some of the ingredients that are found in it. The same can also be said with regard to medicated shampoos especially since they come in many varieties. For that matter, it is important for patients to receive a go signal from their doctors first to avoid wasting their time and resources in buying them. This in turn also avoids any complication and issues that might arise when using these types of shampoo for scalp psoriasis treatment.

 

Psoriasis is a troublesome skin condition that is characterized by the patches of abnormal skin. These patches are oftentimes red in color and are itchy. This can be minor inconvenience for those who have this condition in a small area. Such is not the case however when psoriasis completely covers the body. Plaque psoriasis makes this much worse with its scaly silvery white buildup of dead skin cells. They have a huge likelihood of cracking and bleeding while at the same time are known to be itchy and painful. Let us look at timely and effective relief with this skin condition.

Different Types of Psoriasis

Before we delve deep into plaque psoriasis, knowing its different types can go a long way in helping you find suitable treatment for each condition. Plaque psoriasis as mentioned earlier is considered to be the most common. Nail psoriasis can affect both fingernails and toenails which can cause pitting, abnormal nail growth, and discoloration. On the other hand, scalp psoriasis just as their name implies develops red, itchy areas with silvery-white scales on the scalp. This can also extend beyond the hairline which has been shown in some cases. Inverse psoriasis affects the skin in the armpits, in the groin, under the breasts, and around the genitals while pustular psoriasis can occur in smaller areas on your hands, feet, or fingertips.

Treatment for Plaque Psoriasis

Finding the right plaque psoriasis treatment is important to help manage the condition. It should be noted that there is no cure for psoriasis. Patients however can provide relief through a variety of treatments. This include the application of topical treatments which can help slow down skin cell growth and reduce inflammation. Phototherapy is also known to be quite effective in dealing with psoriasis. The procedure revolves around the exposure of skin to ultraviolet light on a regular basis and under medical supervision.

Patients can also find home remedies that can be used for plaque psoriasis treatment. This includes over the counter products such as tar shampoo and ointments that can be effective in treating scalp disease. In addition, sunbathing can have beneficial effects on psoriasis as long as it is done when the weather is tolerable and sunlight is adequate. Aside from that, patients are also advised to practice gentle washing techniques to minimize irritation. It is important that they avoid washing them with excessive force as this increases the likelihood of bleeding to occur which results to irritation and trauma.

Since psoriasis is a long term disease, it is important for patients to work hand in hand with their doctors to make sure that the condition is regulated and controlled. For that matter, having their numbers saved and memorized if possible will provide a huge amount of relief as you will be able to get in touch with them at any given time when the need arises. It is also good to hear that these doctors integrated their services over the internet allowing easy access and reach for their patients. Find these doctors today!