Psoriasis, what it is and how to deal with it
Posted by Xanit Internacional Xanit Internacional | Posted in dermatology | Posted on 30-11-2016
Tags: dermatology, psoriasis
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Today we are going to concentrate on a condition which affects 2% of the Spanish population: psoriasis.
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease, meaning it results from a malfunction of the body’s immune system. It is not contagious and can appear on the skin throughout the body. It appears in the form of raised red plaques, with a covering of dead, white skin cells, which are often painful and can cause itching.
Not only does this condition affect the skin, it can also affect the joints and is associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease.
Although the cause is unknown, a significant hereditary component has been demonstrated. 40% of patients suffering from psoriasis have a first degree family member with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis, this rises to 90% in the case of second degree family members. Other factors have also been identified, such as stress, trauma, infection and some medications.
Psoriasis can worsen at certain times of the year, especially if exposed to atmospheres which dry the skin. The use of heaters when the cold weather arrives, or, spending time in places where winter is very dry can complicate the condition. During the summer time it can be beneficial to expose the skin to the sun, but not in the middle of the day and not for more than a quarter of an hour. As always, sunscreen is completely necessary at all times, sunburn is even more serious for skin affected by psoriasis.
The results of psoriasis are not only physical. The psychological effects of this condition have been described in many studies, showing that 75% of patients seen with psoriasis suffer from insecurity, stress and anxiety as a result of their disease.
However, every case is different therefore all patients with psoriasis should undergo a specific, individual assessment by a Dermatology Specialist.
In the Dermatology Unit at Vithas Xanit International Hospital, our specialists led by Dr. Enrique Herrera Acosta, tackle treatment of this condition using the most advanced technology available. Vithas Xanit Limonar have introduced the latest system, offering photochemotherapy with Psoralen-UVA and phototherapy with Narrowband UVB. Although currently psoriasis cannot be cured there are several treatments to control the condition with very satisfactory success rates depending on the type of patient.
Dermatologists from Vithas Xanit International Hospital’s Dermatology Department, can help and advise you on how to deal with this condition to obtain optimal results.
Source of news: Clínica Dr. Herrera