Psoriasis: Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention

Psoriasis- one of the most common diseases, the incidence of which is constantly increasing in the population from year to year. And considering that absolutely all ages are prone to this pathology, and its simple form flows through to a more complex one pretty quickly, then the issue of proper therapy and prevention is indeed very sharp.

According to statistics, about every 30 inhabitants of the planet suffer from this disease to one degree or another. What should be done for those who suffer from psoriasis? What medications and folk remedies can be treated? How to properly organize meals? Complete all the points.

Psoriasis and its causes

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease with a rather vague etiology - the exact cause of this, despite numerous studies in the field, is still unknown. This pathology is thought to be the result of genetically determined changes in the immune system that result in chronic inflammation of the skin. However, its multifactorial nature is not ruled out either - in other words, in addition to involvement, inheritance and the impact of the external environment.

It is noteworthy that scientists say the predisposing factors are quite different in different age groups: for example, if different types of bacterial infections, including streptococcal infections in particular, are considered to be triggers in children, then for adults, stress stimuli and nicotineabuse is key. , and the use of alcohol, obesity, and certain medications (e. g. , adrenaline receptor blockers).

It is impossible to completely cure psoriasis, however, modern medicine is quite capable of significantly alleviating the course of the disease and maintaining long-term remission of the patient.

Several theories explain the appearance of psoriasis:

• infectious and parasitic;
• neurogenic;
• endocrine;
• metabolism;
• immunological;
• hereditary;
• the theory of molecular imitation.

As with many other diseases, the cause of skin problems must be sought in the gut. Its length is between 4 and 6 meters, the inner surface is covered with villi, the total area of which is comparable to the size of a tennis court - this allows the absorption processes to proceed much more efficiently. Interestingly, the cells of the small intestinal mucosa are completely renewed every 3-5 days. In addition, up to 70% of human immunocytes are concentrated here. So one of the most common causes of psoriasis is leaking bowel syndrome (LEPS).

Deviation from the normal functioning of the intestinal mucosa is associated with malabsorption, ie violation of the assimilation of essential nutrients (proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals). In addition, the negative effects of toxins and allergens on the body are increased: under these conditions, they enter the bloodstream much more easily. The direct link between psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disease has been demonstrated in several studies.

Other work by scientists confirms that a special microflora is formed on the skin of a patient with psoriasis, which is significantly different from the microbiome of healthy skin.

In the area of psoriatic lesions, a mass of various bacteria is concentrated, the stability of which is significantly lower than that of normal skin - especially colonization by Staphylococcus aureus, which has an extremely negative effect on the inflammatory process.

Types of psoriasmr

1. Plaque psoriasis. . . In 90% of cases, dermatologists face this special form of the disease, also known as simple or common. First, separate small areas appear on the skin that rise above the level of a healthy dermis. These inflamed areas are called psoriasis plaques. They gradually grow, merging with the adjacent spots to form a whole.
2. Reverse psoriasis.This diagnosis is given to patients who develop smooth red spots in the folds of skin and inside the folds - in the groin area, inner thighs, under the breast. Unlike simple psoriasis, foci of inflammation are virtually not covered by scales, but due to their location and constant friction, they cause serious discomfort to patients. In addition, there is a risk of re-infection of the streptococcus or fungus, as the places where the spots are localized create ideal conditions for the growth of microorganisms due to the high humidity and temperature.
3. Guttate psoriasis.This type of disease is named after the shape of the formations. The lesions are in the form of drops, rising above the level of healthy skin. A common cause of this form of psoriasis is a previous streptococcal infection, as mentioned earlier. The situation is that the patient’s immunity, which is affected in the fight against the infection, is severely weakened - its resources are not limitless and, like all living things, it takes time to heal - and an autoimmune disease develops in the background. active.
4. Pustular psoriasis.It is considered to be the most severe form, with the formation of blisters filled with a clear liquid. Inflammation of the skin begins around the foci, swelling and thickening appear. With secondary exacerbation, the probability of which is quite high, the blisters are purulent. Localized foci of pustular psoriasis on the arms and legs. In severe cases, the blisters are found everywhere in the body, their rapid growth and the risk of infection of the entire surface of the skin.

5. Psoriasis on the nails.This type of disease changes the appearance and structure of the nail plates on the hands and feet. Nails thicken, lose their natural color, emit an unpleasant odor. The skin around the nail bed becomes rough, thick ridges are formed. In advanced cases, the nails may disappear without subsequent reproduction.
6. Psoriatic arthritis. In this case, the disease affects the joints and connective tissues. Most often, the inflammation affects the distal limbs of the limbs. There is psoriasis dactylitis - swelling of the fingers. The hip and knee joints are also exposed to the devastating effects of the ongoing disease. Disabilities often occur and they lose the ability to move independently.
7. Psoriatic erythroderma.Flaky patches appear on the skin while peeling of the affected layer is observed. Patients experience extreme discomfort due to constant itching and swelling. Most often, this diagnosis occurs in patients who have already been treated for simple psoriasis but have not yet completed therapy or changed medication.

Symptoms of the disease

The first manifestation of psoriasis is a small rash on the skin. The papules grow rapidly, grow into patches 4-8 cm in diameter, become larger, and dry scales form on the surface. In advanced cases, the individual patches fuse together and the lesion affects large areas of the body. Psoriasis papules can be distinguished from other skin diseases by their round shape with light borders, red or bright pink color, and silver-white scales. They first appear on areas of the skin whose integrity is caused by wear, wounds, frostbite, and constant friction. Three characteristic signs confirm the onset of psoriasis:

1. Stearin stain phenomenon- the dry particles can be easily separated from the affected surface and reveal an area that looks like a wax or sterol drop.
2. Psoriatic phenomenon(terminal) film. Further cleansing of the papules from the scales allows you to see a clear and moist film with inflamed skin.
3. Auspitz phenomenon. . . Removal of the terminal film leads to the appearance of the smallest blood droplets on the surface of the stain.

This triple of psoriasis is unique - its presence allows the misdiagnosis to be deceived. Nevertheless, different parts of the body have their own characteristics in the manifestation of the disease.

• Pikkelysmr on the body.The back, neck, abdomen, thighs and lower legs are most commonly affected by guttate psoriasis. The drop-shaped small papules gradually grow, rising above the surface of the skin. This form of the disease is often diagnosed in people who have had a staphylococcal infection.

• Psoriasis on the hands.The most common sites for psoriasis papules to appear on the hands are the elbows and interdigital spaces — while a plaque shape is usually observed in which each tiny fragment merges into a single lesion-covered lesion area. The forearm is much less likely to be affected.
• Psoriasis on the legs.The disease begins with a single rash in the knee area. Inflamed areas disturb patients with severe peeling and itching, grow quickly, and merge with neighbors.
• On the palms and legs.In most cases, the simultaneous defeat of the palm and foot is recorded, but in some patients, the disease affects the stratum corneum of the purely upper or lower limbs. As a result of the growth of psoriasis papules, the skin thickens and roughens with additional cracks.
• Psoriasis of the head.First, rashes appear on the forehead, back of the head, and behind the ear. First, patients alone note the only scaly formation that grows, merges with nearby ones, and over time can affect the entire scalp. Papules are very itchy, so they cause a constant urge to scratch the skin - the resulting wounds and cracks are likely to become the entrance gate to the infection. The dry particles are separated from the damaging formations - first small, slightly similar to bran, and then larger flakes.

• Face, ears, neck.The localization of psoriasis papules on the face is more of an exception in the usual clinical picture. In rare cases, when this happens, the disease affects the area around the eyes and eyelids, as well as the face and tongue. The formations on the neck spread quickly further - to the back or to the head. The ear is the site of seborrheic psoriasis. Papules can appear both inside and outside the cartilage shell. When making a diagnosis, it is important not to confuse the disease with seborrheic eczema, which has similar symptoms.
• On the nails.There are three possibilities for the initial manifestation of psoriasis on nail plates. The first is the appearance of small punctate depressions. The second is the thickening of the nails, their natural color turning gray or yellow. As the psoriasis of the nail develops further, the plate peels off and the upper particles can be easily separated. And finally, the third is the deformation of the nail, accompanied by the loss of smoothness of the plate and the appearance of depressed areas.

• Symptoms of psoriasis in children.At an early age, the disease progresses differently: the main localization of red scaly rashes is in the skin folds: inguinal, elbow and popliteal folds, neck. Papules are very itchy, children experience constant torment, are irritable and restless. In general, all clinical variants observed in children are similar to those observed in adults. The differences relate only to the manifestations, the location of the pathological process, and the course of the disease itself.

The 4 stages of psorysmr

Clinical dermatology distinguishes three stages in the course of psoriasis based on differences in symptoms, extent, and duration of skin lesions. However, there is a view that the initial stage should be recognized as another full-fledged stage in the development of the disease.

1. Initial phase.The first sign of psoriasis lesions is small rashes. Their locations may be different and depend on the type of disease. The size of the primary papules does not exceed 3 mm, they are painted a pale pink, which is replaced by gray flowering after 3-4 days - dead dermis particles are formed on the spot. This process is accompanied by itching and burning, and general health deteriorates. In general, the formation of plaques in the initial stage can take up to three weeks, during which time a person has a chance to slow down the development of the pathology.
2. Advanced.At this stage, the disease affects significant areas of the skin: for example, in the case of normal psoriasis, plaques form, with other forms, their characteristic papules. In the process of developing the disease, the individual spots merge with each other, covered with gray scales. The symptom of determining the progressive stage is the Köbner phenomenon (isomorphic reaction). Possible damage to the skin over time is accompanied by the appearance of a rash of psoriasis at this site. Another confirmation that the disease is actively developing is the appearance of dew-like blood droplets after plaque removal. The duration of this stage depends on the type of lesion. It lasts on average from two weeks to two months.
3. Stationary stage.During this period, a thick greyish-white or gray crust is formed. The pink rims disappear. The skin becomes rough, the dry particles constantly peeling off it. The itching and burning sensation becomes less annoying, but it doesn’t go away completely. No new papules are formed. This section can be quite long.
4. Regressive section.It is the last stage in the development of the disease, during which plaques gradually decrease and are absorbed. The itching no longer bothers you. A clear sign of regression is Voronov’s symptom when papules are surrounded by white rings. The spots fade from the center to the periphery, resulting in strange patterns on the skin. By the end of the regression stage, only areas of the skin resembling psoriasis that are slightly different from the healthy area in the shade. There is no need to talk about a complete cure for psoriasis. The end of the regressive phase indicates that the disease cycle is complete and may return at any time. In order to prolong remission, attention should be paid to health: provocative factors should be avoided, diet should be followed, and a dermatologist could observe it.

Study plan for psoriasis

1. General clinical analysis of blood.
2. Research on the content of vitamin D, B12, folic acid in the blood.
3. Blood tests Blood tests for ALT (alanine aminotransferase), AST (aspartate aminotransferase), direct bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, lipid profile cholesterol, creatinine, glucose, insulin, all proteins.
4. Blood rheumatoid factor, c-reactive protein, uric acid, ASLO.
5. Ferritin, transferrin, serum iron are indicators of anemia (especially chronic diseases).
6. Thyroid panel: TSH, T4 sv, TK sv.
7. Coprogram.
8. According to KhMS Osipov.
9. Ultrasound of the abdominal organs.

Traditional treatments for psoriasis

Early therapy.

The sooner a doctor who discovers the first signs of skin lesions goes to see a doctor, the more likely he or she is to take timely action to prevent the disease from developing rapidly and progressing to chronic form — and therefore significantly improve overall living standards.

One of the most commonly prescribed medications at the onset of the disease is salicylic ointment. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, it has a keratolytic effect, thanks to which plaques are cleared of keratinized particles. Naphthalene ointment is also used to reduce itching.

Therapy in progressive stage.

An integrated approach to treatment is needed at this stage and can only be provided by an experienced professional. The goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms and detoxify the body. Intramuscular injections of calcium gluconate are often prescribed to normalize metabolic processes. Sodium thiosulfate relieves inflammation and eliminates signs of poisoning.

Special emulsions and salicylic ointments are used to hydrate inflamed skin. Tar-containing agents are contraindicated in the progressive stage: they are irritating and increase the patient's suffering.

When the intensity of inflammation decreases, physiotherapy procedures can be combined. Patients with psoriasis present with ultraviolet irradiation, PUVA therapy, and paraffin administration. Corticosteroids and cytostatics are not used unnecessarily, these effective drugs are only needed in severe and advanced cases.

Antihistamines are prescribed to reduce allergic manifestations, and sedatives are prescribed to reduce nervousness. Diuretics help reduce swelling of inflamed skin and remove toxins from the body.

Inpatient therapy.

At this stage, the inflammation fades, the plaques are covered with dry crust, so resources are needed to alleviate the inconvenience caused by the appearance of the balance. These are tar shampoos, oil based emulsions.

In many patients, ultraviolet radiation and the PUVA technique have a good effect. If there is no improvement, doctors will prescribe cytostatics.

Therapy in regressive stage.

In the last period of the disease cycle, constant correction of treatment methods is required, depending on the patient’s current condition. Prevention replaces active therapeutic measures.

The patient receives recommendations to change their diet and lifestyle in general. To avoid the recurrence of skin lesions, stressful situations that trigger the development of psoriasis plaque should be avoided.

Doctors usually give patients the following advice:

• rethink your lifestyle: change your diet, get enough sleep, exercise more;
• ensures normal vitamin levelsD, iron, B vitamins, protein in the body;
• normalizes the digestive system: excludes hypoacidity, damaged bile efflux, SIBO and CIGR (syndromes of excessive bacterial and accordingly fungal growth);
• get rid of foci of chronic infection: disinfect the oral cavity, have treatment with an otolaryngologist;
• address concomitant somatic pathology: hypothyroidism, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, etc.

Traditional methods for getting rid of psoriasis

• Initial phase.Juniper and lavender oil are effective at the first signs of skin lesions. They soothe irritated areas of the dermis, help heal minor injuries, relieve the feeling of tightness. A few drops of oil are added to a cream of neutral composition, such as for children, and applied to the rash that appears. Another popular method of treating the initial manifestations of psoriasis is the use of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide. Any measure, even the most harmless at first glance, can be taken after consultation with a dermatologist. Changing your diet, avoiding unhealthy foods and alcohol is also a general recommendation for traditional healers.

• Progressive stage.At the stage of rapid development of the disease, celandine is infused into healing oils and hydrogen peroxide. It will require fresh or dried plant stalks and salt water. Alcoholic tinctures are contraindicated and can worsen the condition of the affected skin. The celandine should be adhered to for at least a few hours and treated with lime tar before applying the healing solution to the plaques.
• Stationary stage.You can use proven folk methods in the phase of stopping the formation of new papules that will certainly not harm the patient. These include the use of sulfur ointment, salicylic acid solution.
• Regressive section.Hirudotherapy (leech therapy) is often used in the last stage of the disease. Although this method is not officially recognized by traditional medicine, many experts do not rule out its effectiveness. The procedures are performed within 3 to 10 days, depending on the patient's condition.

Preventing psoriasis: how to prevent the development of the disease

• Skin care.In order to minimize the likelihood of psoriasis damage in the presence of genetic predisposition, simple ways to maintain skin health help: water and training treatments (bathing in the sea, bathing with herbal extracts and salts, contrast showers, cold watering in water), etc. ); the use of soft sponges and the avoidance of hard dishcloths damaging the skin; use of natural detergents without aggressive chemical ingredients.
• Ultraviolet rays.Several studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of sunbathing on skin prone to psoriasis plaque formation. A moderate dose of ultraviolet light promotes tissue regeneration and reduces inflammation. Sunbathing should not be abused: excess radiation can provoke aggravation of the disease.

• Clothing.Synthetic fabrics, tight-fitting styles, plenty of belts and fasteners - all are contraindicated for patients with psoriasis, even in remission. Clothing should be natural, hypoallergenic, loose, and should not cause discomfort that may lead to recurrence of severe symptoms. For aesthetic reasons, dark tones should be avoided; silver-white scales are less visible on light dresses.
• Injuries.In patients with psoriasis, any minor wounds, scratches, abrasions can cause a recurrence of progressive skin stage and secondary infection. They must be extremely careful to avoid injuries.
• Cosmetic and household products.Not all treatments are suitable for maintaining cleanliness for people with such a diagnosis. When choosing shower gels, soaps, shampoos, it is important to pay attention to their composition, preferring those that contain natural ingredients. It is better to buy therapeutic series care products sold in pharmacies. Scrubs with solid particles are an absolute contraindication: they are able to restart the disease process due to the slightest damage to the skin. Household chemicals should also be chosen based on health safety, do not use aggressive cleaning powders based on chlorine and alkali. When cleaning, wear gloves to avoid negative effects on the skin of the hand.
• Vitamin therapy.Maintaining a vitamin balance is recommended for everyone, especially those with chronic dermatitis. The complex preparations keep the body in good condition, help to resist viruses and prevent metabolic disorders.

Psoriasis- this is not a death sentence, but a very serious reason to reconsider the rule you lived by before. Your allies in taming the disease must be competent professionals - dermatologists, nutritionists, therapists. With their help and a considered approach to treatment, you can learn to live comfortably despite the diagnosis.