Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by an unpredictable course of remissions and relapses and presence of solid elevated patches with loose silvery scales at typical sites like the scalp, elbows, knees, outer aspect of limbs, palms and soles. There is frequent nail and joint involvement.
Frequently asked questions about Psoriasis
- Is psoriasis a rare disease?
Psoriasis is a common and recurring skin condition affecting 2% – 3% of the population.
- What causes Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a multifactorial genetic disease. About 30% of people with psoriasis have a family history of the condition, and certain genes have been linked to psoriasis. However, the condition will only appear if it is triggered by an environmental factor. Triggers may include stressful life events, infection with certain viruses and bacteria, skin injury, or reactions to certain medications.
- Is psoriasis contagious?
Psoriasis is not contagious. It cannot be caught from touching someone who has the condition, swimming in the same pool, sharing towels, or eating food prepared by a person with psoriasis.
- How about dietary advice for psoriasis patients?
Diet is thought to play only a small role in psoriasis. In general, a well-balanced diet is advisable in people with psoriasis, just as it is in everyone else.
- Is psoriasis incurable?
The treatment of psoriasis should be individualized and depends on patient and disease factors. Treatment is concerned with control rather than cure. Psoriasis can be managed with sustained judicious use of various treatments.
- Are there any alternative treatments that can cure psoriasis?
No conventional or alternative treatments exist that can cure psoriasis.
- What is the role of climate and sunlight?
Hot, humid environments tend to make bad cases of psoriasis worse. In contrast, sunlight and dry, sunny climates, as a rule are helpful – particularly in mild cases.
“Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life.” So let’s come together to understand Psoriasis and treat it effectively.
Dr. Anjali Palav
DNB, FCPS, DDV, MNAMS, MBBS (Specialist Dermatologist)
Bahrain Specialist Hospital
Phone – 17812221
Email – anjalip@bsh.com.bh