Scaly lichen is one of the most common dermatological diseases. It is known that about 5% of people on the planet are aware of the first stage (scaly) symptoms of skin psoriasis. The cause of this disease is an inappropriate reaction of the body to external stimuli. And if the duration of skin cell renewal in a healthy body is about 3-4 weeks, it decreases to 4-5 days in patients with such pathology.
Causes and signs of the initial stage of psoriasis
To date, the causes of the early onset of psoriasis have not been fully elucidated. However, it is believed that the cause of the disease is severe stress. In addition, among the possible reasons, the experts distinguish the following:
- transmitted infections;
- reaction to the cold climate;
- some eating habits (abuse of spicy foods, pickles);
- unhealthy lifestyle (especially alcoholism);
- hereditary factor.
Symptoms of the first stage of psoriasis
It is important to recognize in the early stages of psoriasis. After all, starting treatment in time will help prevent the condition from getting worse and the disease from spreading to other organs.
The first signs of the disease are on the elbow. Early-stage psoriasis is more like a small rash, with small lumps forming a little later. After a while, they grow, they connect with each other. Plaques of different sizes then appear on the affected areas of the skin. They turn white and peel off.
Is psoriasis itchy in the initial stages? Dermatologists often give a positive answer to this question. Particularly annoying itching where plaque buildup is greatest:
- on the elbows;
- to the knees;
- in places where the integrity of the skin is compromised (there are cuts or cracks).
The first signs of the disease often appear in places that are constantly touched by clothing. This is especially evident in children. This is why psoriasis in the first stage is often confused with manifestations of diathesis or allergies to the products used for washing. This is the most dangerous mistake. After all, the treatment started at the onset of the first rash is much more effective than the therapy prescribed later.
Experts distinguish three main signs that accurately indicate an autoimmune problem and do not allow it to be confused with another skin condition:
- A stain that looks like crushed stearin. Occurs due to peeling of scales.
- Appearance of the so-called terminal foil under the scales.
- Appearance of bruises on the skin (dewdrops).
In the initial stages of psoriasis, the symptoms (rashes) go away after about 2 months. If left untreated, they will reappear after a while, but in much larger quantities.
Treatment of the initial stage of psoriasis
Doctors approach the initial form of the disease with caution. And while two decades ago the first signs were often prescribed rather serious drugs, including hormonal drugs and cytostatics, modern tactics are aimed at eliminating the cause of exacerbation - patients are advised to avoid stress, review their diet, keep measuredlifestyle. To eliminate unpleasant symptoms, professionals prescribe non-hormonal topical agents, including ointments, gels, shampoos, which are made based on:
- birch, pine or juniper tar;
- fat;
- oil;
- anti-inflammatory drugs (salicylic and zinc ointments).
Treatment for early-stage psoriasis also involves the use of oily creams enriched with vitamins A and E. Ointments containing hormonal agents are used in cases where the use of non-hormonal topical agents does not provide relief.
In addition, after the application of physiotherapy procedures, a good effect is observed in psoriasis in the initial stage:
- electric sleep, which has a calming effect;
- ultraviolet irradiation with different wavelengths (311-312 nm and 310-340 nm);
- exposure to ultrasonic vibrations in the high frequency range (800-3000 kHz);
- laser therapy;
- cryotherapy.
Medications and procedures used to treat the early stages of psoriasis are prescribed individually by the physician, focusing on the severity of the symptoms, the age of the patient, and the body's response to therapy.
Treatment at home
In the initial stages of psoriasis, home treatment should be combined with a prescribed doctor to relieve the condition. For most patients, dermatologists recommend starting by changing their diet, completely abandoning fatty meats, smoked meats, spicy spices, coffee, chocolate, and alcohol. You should diversify your diet with fresh fruits and vegetables (especially leafy), sour milk and fish products.
To avoid further skin irritation, it is recommended to use baby or tar soap for washing. Herbal collections (tricolor violets, succession, celandine, hops and others) and baths with sea salt help well.
Experts also recommend not to deny trips to the seaside resorts for mud treatment. However, you should not choose the hottest months of the year to relax. At moderate temperatures, spa treatment, mud treatment and bathing in seawater provide a lasting effect.
Conclusion
There is no doubt that it is possible to cure psoriasis in the initial stages. If you see a doctor in time, there is a good chance that you will forget about the problem for a long time.