Psoriasis is a chronic, non-contagious scaling disease of the skin.
Psoriasis presents in many different forms and may be mild or severe. It is a condition that occurs in all age groups and in both men and women, with a higher prevalence in females.
Its root cause is unknown but it appears to be due to a problem with the body’s immune system. In a nutshell, the body sends messages to the skin to increase the growth rate of skin cells, leading to a build-up on the surface of the skin. This growth gives rise to the condition’s characteristic white, scaly, thickened plaques. Normal skin cells take about 28-30 days to mature, but psoriatic cells take only 3-4 days.
There is also a significant genetic component in psoriasis — that is, it tends to occur in families — but numerous factors seem to effect its severity. These factors include sunlight levels, stress, injury, infections, and sometimes, reactions to certain drugs.
Plaque psoriasis (psoriasis vulgaris) is the most common form of psoriasis. It appears most commonly on the scalp, knees, elbows, trunk and nails but can occur virtually anywhere on the body. Typically, the lesions are red or flaky silvery white and are well defined and raised. The lesions can become dry, itchy, cracked and painful. About 80% of psoriasis cases are classified as psoriasis vulgaris.
Guttate psoriasis, are small red lesions similar in size to large pimples. They are red and raised but not normally scaly as with the plaques.
Inverse or flexural psoriasis is generally found in skin folds such as buttocks, under breasts, under armpits. It is more common in overweight people and appears red, inflamed and dry without being scaly.
Erythrodermic psoriasis, is characterised by a widespread rash and is the least common form of psoriasis. It generally results in widespread exfoliation and soreness.
Localised pustular psoriasis is generally a type of psoriasis confined to a small area. The pustules appear, turn brown and peel.
Arthritis with psoriasis (psoriatic arthritis) occurs in up to 30% of people with psoriasis. Often, similar symptoms to arthritis such as stiff joints, reduced range of motion, tiredness are present. Other symptoms such as conjunctivitis and nail problems can occur also. The most effected joints are wrists, knees, ankles and lower back and neck.
Given the diversity of ways in which psoriasis appears, there are many approaches for its pharmaceutical treatment. At Border Compounding Pharmacy, we can tailor-make skincare and medicinal products to suit your condition. We offer a pre-biotic approach that aims to enhance the health of the skin and can also compound pharmaceutical products.
For more details and more options, contact us and talk to one of our professional staff.
Comments will be approved before showing up.
