What is psoriasis?

It is a chronic skin condition in which cells multiply much faster than normal and build up into scaly, red, and irritated patches called plaques.  They can appear on your scalp, elbows, palms, soles, and knees, as well as in the folds of your skin.

Symptoms: Red, thick patches or sores, silvery scales, itchiness, dryness, inflamed, painful skin, arthritis.

If you have problems, of course the first thing to do is see a dermatologist.  Then consider what you can do for yourself.

Self-help strategies

Climatotherapy
That’s a fancy word for getting out in the sunshine.  The sun’s ultraviolet light may help clear up your skin.  According to the NPG, 80% of those who get regular exposure to the sun show improvement.  If you can’t get out in the sun, a tanning bed may be an effective alternative.

De-stress
Stress aggravates your psoriasis.  Check out our articles on stress for ideas on de-stressing.  In the meantime, listen to hypnosis and relaxation discs and use yoga, tai chi, and meditation as relaxants.  Exercise may cut down on your stress level and your psoriasis.

Evening primrose oil
Another supplement worth trying is evening primrose oil, which helped relieve other skin disorders in a number of studies.

Fish oil
In several clinical trials, fish oil supplements improved psoriasis symptoms.

Skin moisturizers
A wide range of topical products, those you apply to your skin, might do the trick.  Aloe vera helped treat psoriasis in one study.  Other natural over-the-counter moisturizing products could be effective.  Other ideas are bath products that contain oats, products contain capsaicin, and coal tar.  The latter should be used only under a doctor’s supervision.

Support groups.
Join forces with others.  Sharing feelings and experiences can help tremendously.  If nothing else, you’ll realize you’re not alone.  The NPF sponsors a Pen Pal Club to put people with psoriasis in touch with each other.

National Psoriasis Foundation
Check out their web page.   Learn how to find or create a support group.  Learn the latest that this national organization has to offer.

Resource Center:

• Wikipedia definition
• Web MD
• Mayo Clinic
• BeatPsoriasis.com

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