Psoriasis symptoms. How to properly treat psoriasis on the body

The date: 01.07.2020

Psoriasis is a non-infectious disease that affects the skin and its appendages: hair, nail plates. External manifestations are rashes and peeling of the skin, from where the second name of the pathology came from - scaly lichen. It is characterized by alternating periods of exacerbation with periods of relative stability, or remission. Since it is not caused by microorganisms, it is not infectious and is not contagious. Medical statistics state that approximately 3-4% of the population suffers from this pathology. Psoriasis can manifest itself in people of any age, but "prefers" the young: in more than 70% of patients it is found before the age of 18-23 years.

Why does psoriasis appear?

Psoriasis is an abnormal reaction of the body to external stimuli, which results in the rapid death of the upper layer of the skin in certain parts of the body. Normally, the duration of the cycle of division and subsequent maturation of cells is 21-28 days, in the case of the period is reduced to 3-5 days.
Today, most experts tend to consider psoriasis as a multifactorial disease of hereditary etiology.
There are several theories about the origin of the disease. According to the first, there are two types of lichen:

the first is a consequence of the poor functioning of the immune system, affects the skin and is inherited, manifesting itself from a young age;
the second makes itself felt after 40 years, affects the joints, nails, is not genetically determined and is not associated with a malfunction of the immune defense.

Proponents of another theory argue that the only factor contributing to the development of psoriasis are immunity disorders, which are provoked by a wide variety of factors:

infectious diseases;
irrational nutrition;
cold climatic conditions;
alcohol abuse.

In accordance with this theory, lichen scaly is classified as a systemic disease and can spread to internal organs, joints, and other tissues. When the joints are affected, the so-called psoriatic arthritis develops, in which the small joints of the hands and feet suffer.
The following factors favor the appearance of the disease:

dry thin skin;
constant contact with irritating reagents: household chemicals, alcohol solutions, cosmetics;
excessive hygiene, leading to a violation of the natural protective barrier of the skin;
smoking, consumption of drugs or alcohol (contribute to the deterioration of blood supply and skin nutrition);
taking certain medications;
fungal and bacterial infections;
change of climatic region;
stress;
the use of spicy, sour foods, chocolate;
allergic conditions;
injury.

Disease classification

How psoriasis begins, how it manifests itself, what is its effect on the body - all these points are determined by a specific type of pathology.
Today there are several classifications of the disease. One of the most common divides psoriasis into two varieties:

non-pustular;
pustular.

The non-pustular (or simple) form is a chronic pathology characterized by a stable course. This group also includes erythrodermic psoriasis, the main symptom of which is the defeat of most of the skin.

The pustular variety includes:

annular pustulosis;
Barber's psoriasis;
von Zimbusch psoriasis;
psoriasis of the palms and soles.

drug-induced form;
seborrheic-like;
psoriasis Napkin;
"Reverse psoriasis" (develops on the flexion surfaces).

Depending on the localization of the pathological process and the characteristics of the manifestation of the first symptoms of psoriasis, there are:

psoriasis of the scalp;
nails (onychodystrophy);
pustular;
spotted;

Symptoms

Psoriasis is a systemic pathology that, in addition to spreading to the skin and nails, can affect the spine, joints, tendons, immune, endocrine, and nervous systems. Often there is damage to the liver, kidneys, thyroid gland.

The first symptoms of psoriasis are most often:

general weakness;
feeling of chronic fatigue;
depressed state or depression.

Due to the complex impact of pathology on the body, experts are more likely to talk about psoriatic disease.
And yet the main clinic is associated with the defeat of certain areas of the skin. One of the first manifestations is the appearance of rounded papules of bright red or pink color covered with psoriatic plaques (scales). Their feature is a symmetrical arrangement on the scalp, flexion surfaces, lower back, less often on the genital mucosa. The size of papules in the early stages is a few millimeters and can later reach up to 10 cm or more. The feature of the rash becomes the basis for dividing the disease into the following types:

point, in which the elements are smaller than the pinhead;
drop-shaped - papules are shaped like a teardrop and correspond to the size of a lentil grain;
coin-shaped - plaques with rounded edges reach 5 mm in diameter.

Sometimes the rash is arched, in the form of rings or garlands, a geographical map with irregular edges.

The top layer of papules are easily removed scaly plaques formed by keratinized epidermis. Initially, scales form in the central part of the plaque, gradually spreading to the edges. The light, loose appearance is due to the presence of air-filled gaps in the keratinized cells. Sometimes a pink ring is formed around the elements, which is a zone of plaque growth and the spread of inflammation. The surrounding skin remains unchanged.
When plaque is removed, a shiny surface of bright red color is revealed, formed by capillaries with significantly thinned walls, covered with a very thin film on top. Capillaries are detected as a result of a violation of the normal structure of the upper layer of the skin and its significant thinning. A change in the structure of the skin occurs as a result of incomplete maturation of keratinocyte cells, leading to the impossibility of their normal differentiation.

Psoriasis of the scalp

The main symptom is the appearance of psoriatic plaques that rise noticeably above the surrounding skin. They are abundantly covered with dandruff-like scales. At the same time, the hair itself is not involved in the pathological process. From the area under the hair, the rash can spread to smooth skin, the neck area, behind the ears. This process is due to the rapid division of keratinocytes in the affected area.

Symptoms of psoriasis of the hands and feet

This form of lichen provokes a significant thickening of the stratum corneum in these areas. The skin becomes rough and cracked. The reason is intensive cell division (their multiplication rate is up to 8 times higher than normal) and preservation on the surface. At an early stage, pustules form on the skin with contents that are initially transparent, but gradually become white. Over time, dark scars form. In most cases, it appears simultaneously on the feet and palms, but sometimes plaques occur in only one area. When the process spreads to the back of the hands, we are talking about a different form of psoriasis (not about the palmar-plantar).

Symptoms of Nail Psoriasis

How is it manifested? This type of disease is characterized by a variety of symptoms. There are mainly two types of damage to the plates:

like a thimble, in which the nail is covered with small pits, resembling traces of needle pricks;
by the type of onychomycosis - the affected tissues resemble a nail fungus: the nails change color, noticeably thicken and begin to flake off. Through the plate, one can distinguish a psoriatic papule surrounded by a reddish rim, resembling an oil stain.

The dependence of symptoms on the stage of the disease

Manifestations of psoriasis vary depending on the specific season and. Many patients have a “winter” type of the disease, in which periods of exacerbation occur in late autumn or winter. In the warm season, due to the intensity of the ultraviolet, an improvement occurs. The “summer” type is quite rare.
During the pathology, three stages are distinguished:

Progressive, in which new elements constantly appear, the active growth of existing plaques is fixed, the presence of a pink zone around them, severe peeling, itching.
Stationary - the growth of papules stops, new rashes do not form, small folds are visible on the upper layer of the skin, around the plaques.
Regressive - there is no peeling, plaques begin to disappear, in the process of attenuation of the disease, areas with increased pigmentation remain in their place.

Symptoms of psoriasis in children

Symptoms have some differences, especially in infants. The first signs are not typical. A delimited area of redness appears in the skin folds, which is accompanied by maceration and gradual exfoliation of the stratum corneum (starts from the periphery). Outwardly, it resembles eczematitis, diaper rash or candidiasis. In young children, rashes continue to appear in places uncharacteristic of psoriasis (on the skin of the face, genital mucosa, in natural skin folds).
Very often, rashes first develop on the head, under the hair. Here accumulations of crusts are formed against the background of moderate infiltration. Other common areas of rash localization are areas of the skin subject to constant friction of clothing or exposure to aggressive drugs.
The papules that form on the body gradually merge into plaques with irregular outlines. Their sizes can vary from a lentil grain to a child's hand.
With a drop-shaped form, papular elements are small in size. They appear unexpectedly, quickly covering the body, face, neck, scalp and extensor areas of the arms and legs.
Psoriasis in children is characterized by a long and persistent course. The only exception is the drop-shaped type, which is characterized by a milder course with long periods of remission. As in the case of adults, three stages, or stages, are distinguished in the development of the disease.

On the progressive one, small itchy papules appear with a red rim of peripheral growth. A feature of the symptoms in infancy is the weak severity of pinpoint bleeding, terminal film and the phenomenon of stearin stain. In children, the lymph nodes enlarge and thicken, sometimes they become painful (especially with erythroderma and exudative psoriasis).
During the transition to the stationary stage, peripheral growth stops, the infiltrate flattens in the center of the plaque and desquamation decreases.
The regressive stage is characterized by the resorption of the elements of the rash. Sometimes around them you can see a characteristic depigmented rim. The areas of the former rash lose pigment or, conversely, undergo hyperpigmentation. Lymph nodes become soft and decrease in size.

Diffuse lesions are observed on the palms and soles of the child. There are also cracks and infiltration of the skin. In the case of common forms of dermatosis, nails are affected: point indentations or longitudinal grooves are formed on them. Severe psoriasis leads to nail deformity.

Pustular psoriasis is a rarity in children. It may occur in older adults. This disease is characterized by a severe course with a noticeable deterioration in the condition and an increase in temperature.

Arthropathic varieties in childhood are not found. In rare cases, small patients indicate the presence of joint pain.

Video about the symptoms of psoriasis

How the disease is diagnosed

If you suspect psoriasis, you should consult a dermatologist.

is based on an external examination, assessment of the condition of nails, skin, localization of lesions. As a rule, there is no need for special analyzes.
If there are difficulties with the diagnosis, a biopsy is performed. A skin sample is taken from the affected area.
In the presence of pain in the joints, x-rays are recommended. A blood test is done to rule out other types of arthritis.
If guttate psoriasis is suspected, sowing from the pharynx on the microflora is prescribed for differentiation with acute pharyngitis.
The potassium hydroxide test can rule out the presence of a fungal infection.

Treatment methods for psoriasis

The method is determined by the form of the disease, symptoms and sensitivity to medications.
First, local treatment is carried out with an effect on the affected areas. This avoids the occurrence of an adverse reaction.
There is a technique in accordance with which patients are prescribed soft drugs. In the absence of effect, they are replaced by more potent ones. Even with the effectiveness of the chosen remedy, it is periodically changed to avoid addiction.
Gives a good result. Their appointment is advisable for severe and moderate forms of pathology. The disadvantage of this treatment is the high likelihood of serious adverse reactions.
The main groups of drugs used:

Retinoids (Tigason, Neotigason) - eliminate the violation of the maturation of the surface layer of the skin.
Immunosuppressants (Cyclosporin A) - reduce the activity of immune defense and the activity of T-lymphocytes, which provoke intensive division of skin cells.
Cytostatics - drugs for the treatment of malignant tumors () - stop the reproduction of atypical epidermal cells and their growth.

Physiotherapeutic methods are also used:

photochemotherapy;
selective;
magnetotherapy;
electrosleep;
ultrasound therapy;
hyperthermia.

The disease psoriasis is a pathology, the development of which affects the skin on different parts of the body, as well as the nail plates and hair follicles. This disease is non-contagious, and often occurs in a chronic form with periodic exacerbations, which can cause both external and internal provoking factors. According to statistics maintained by many medical institutions around the world, almost 4% of the population has psoriasis. Pathology can develop in people of different age categories, social classes and genders. In 70% of cases, the disease manifests itself in young people, whose age ranges from 18-25 years.

Causes

Modern medicine considers manifestations of psoriasis on the skin as an abnormal reaction of the body to external or internal stimuli. Under the influence of provoking factors in different places, there is a rapid death of the epidermis, its upper layers. Due to the fact that today the exact causes of the development of this pathology have not been established, many experts attribute it to a multifactorial disease with a hereditary etiology.

There are several scientific theories for the development of this disease:

Violations in the work of immunity. Due to the fact that the system does not cope with its direct functions, the skin is damaged. From this category of patients, the disease is inherited by children, and its signs appear in them at an early age.
Pathology manifests itself in people whose age exceeds the 40-year mark. In this category of patients, the nail plates and joints are affected. Experts do not associate this handicap of pancreatitis with malfunctions in the immune system.

The following factors can provoke malfunctions in the immune system, and thereby cause the development of pancreatitis:

malnutrition (people whose diet consists mainly of fatty foods and fast carbohydrates are more susceptible to illness);
diseases of infectious etiology;
abuse of alcoholic beverages;
adverse climatic conditions (often people living in cold regions experience this pathology).

How does psoriasis develop?

After external or internal irritants have had a detrimental effect on the human body, psoriatic plaques appear on its skin.

They can be localized on any part of the body, but are most often detected:

in large skin folds;
on the extensor surfaces of the lower and upper limbs;
along the body;
on the hairy part of the head;
on the stomach.

Modern medicine knows two forms of this pathology: winter and summer. In the first case, the symptoms of skin psoriasis appear in the summer, and during the cold season, the disease is in a calm state. In the second case, everything happens in a mirror order.

The first symptoms of psoriasis may appear suddenly, under the influence of provoking factors. But also signs of pathology can appear gradually, in parallel with the weakening of the immune system. As a rule, a slow manifestation of pathology is observed in patients who have immunodeficiency states.

At an early stage in the development of pathology in humans, specks slowly begin to appear on the integument of the skin. This process may take several months. After this time, the disease passes into an acute stage.

To minimize the risks of complications, patients should contact medical institutions for consultation when the first pathological changes appear on the skin. The sooner narrow-profile specialists diagnose the disease and identify the causes of psoriasis, the more effective the drug treatment prescribed by them will be and the state of remission will come faster.

Characteristic signs that appear at an early stage

The main symptom of this pathology is a rash that can appear on various parts of the skin. At an early stage in the development of pathology, such rashes do not have any characteristic signs. In humans, first of all, spots appear that have a pink tint, which eventually degenerate into papules localized in the upper layers of the epidermis. Thanks to this, this category of patients manages to maintain their hairline. Papules have a shape that resembles a hemisphere in appearance, and are small in size, approximately the size of a pinhead. Their surface is shiny and very smooth, so people can see such formations with the naked eye.

At an early stage in the development of psoriasis, the shape of the spots that appear is very similar to lichen planus (red), so specialists have to differentiate the pathology from other diseases in order to establish an accurate diagnosis.

After some time after the appearance of pink spots, scales begin to form on their surfaces. At the same time, patients experience severe itching, which is why they comb the plaques to the blood and often bring the infection into open wounds.

In the case when nail plates are affected by psoriasis, they thicken. Psoriasis plaques form on the lateral surfaces, and destructive processes develop in the nutria. If the pathology has affected the scalp, then its first manifestations may not always be noticeable. People can suspect something is wrong by the peeling that has appeared, in the places of localization of which scales are formed, which some mistake for dandruff.

Modern medicine classifies psoriasis according to the type of rash:

pustular . In parallel with the appearance of papules, pustules appear, which are the result of infection. The skin integument in patients is very dry, cracks may appear on them, which ultimately leads to a violation of their barrier functions.
non-pustular . In this form of psoriasis, patients develop papules that are not accompanied by an additional rash.

Symptoms

A characteristic sign of the development of psoriasis is the defeat of the skin integuments, on which strongly itchy scaly plaques appear. In addition, pathology can affect other systems and organs, against which people may experience the following symptoms:

Metabolism is disturbed . Patients may experience rapid weight loss. This is because their body loses the ability to absorb all the nutrients that come with food. Against the background of weight loss, patients develop weakness and atrophy of muscle tissues may develop.
Malfunctions occur in the lymphatic system . In most cases, with the development of psoriasis in people, inflammatory processes begin in parallel. Against this background, lymphadenopathy (generalized) may develop in the lymph nodes located in the femoral region and in the groin.
There is a lesion of the mucous membranes (mainly on the internal organs) . Most often, specialists identify pathological changes in the membranes of the urethra and gastrointestinal tract. Initially, small plaques (psoriatic) appear on the mucous membranes, as well as pustules. In some cases, lesions can spread to the mucous membranes of the eyes, as a result of which patients develop irrigocyclitis, conjunctivitis, and damage to the lens (sclerous) may occur.
Disruption of the nervous system . In this category of patients, psoriatic encephalopathy may develop. Against the background of pathological changes, the subcortical structures of the brain lose their ability to fully function. Some patients develop delirium, during which they can tell others false information. Epileptic seizures may also suddenly begin.
Arthritis is considered a distinct form of psoriasis. and, as a rule, is accompanied by degenerative changes in cartilaginous tissues. Patients have an asymmetric lesion of the joints, in which a strong pain syndrome appears on palpation. The psoriatic form of arthritis always begins very violently and acutely, and not in all cases there is damage to the skin.

How to prevent psoriasis?

People can prevent the appearance of this skin pathology if they carry out prophylaxis in a timely manner:

Patients will be able to learn from dermatologists how psoriasis resolves on its own, in which cases long-term therapy is indispensable, and how to prevent repeated relapses.
It is necessary to protect the nervous system from stress.
Mechanical, thermal and chemical damage to the skin should be prevented. If a person is in daily contact with harmful environments, then he needs to wear gloves.
People need to keep their weight under control. If they notice that the arrows of the scales have begun to move in the wrong direction, then emergency measures should be taken to stabilize the weight.
It is necessary to review your diet and exclude from the menu all foods that can lead to obesity and the accumulation of bad cholesterol.
It is not recommended to spend a lot of time in the sun, as ultraviolet radiation has a detrimental effect on the skin.

If a person still encounters this disease, then for the fastest transfer of the disease to a state of stable remission, he needs, first of all, a positive attitude. You should also strictly follow all the recommendations of dermatologists and minimize contact with allergens and other provoking factors.

According to statistics, every 25th inhabitant of the planet suffers from psoriasis. Having no gender preference, the virus is more likely to manifest itself in young people - more than 2/3 of all patients under the age of 20 years. Skin psoriasis is a serious dermatological disease. Today we will talk about its features, methods of treatment and much more.

Description of the disease

If you have not personally encountered this disease, you can look at the photo of skin psoriasis to get an idea of what this disease looks like.

Psoriasis is an abnormal behavior of the body, in which the reaction to certain external factors changes. It manifests itself on the skin, the life of which is reduced from a month to five days.

Causes of the disease

Now scientists are sure that psoriasis is transmitted with the genetic code from parents to children. This is indicated by both studies and statistics of patients - about 4% of people.

At the same time, it is absolutely known that psoriasis is not an infection that is transmitted in traditional ways. In other words, psoriasis cannot be contracted from another person.

Since psoriasis is already in the person, its manifestation depends on some conditions. First of all - problems with the immune system.

A huge number of diseases that are in a passive state inside a person wake up immediately after the immune system ceases to suppress them. Therefore, among the causes of psoriasis on the skin, it should be highlighted first.

The emotional background also plays an important role - constant stress can cause the awakening of psoriasis. This can also add various problems with the endocrine system. Often, psoriasis manifests itself in humans along with other diseases that weaken the body.

Types of psoriasis

The stages and manifestation of psoriasis still depend on its type. There are only two types of this disease. The division is not only according to the characteristics of psoriasis, but also depending on the person who suffers from it. Thus, psoriasis of the first type is the most common.

It is transmitted from parents to a child, and awakening always follows a violation of the immune system. Most often, young people under the age of 25 suffer from this.

The second type of psoriasis is already more difficult and more dangerous. It is no longer a hereditary disease. The risk group in this case are older people - from 40 years old. This psoriasis appears in the body due to the fact that the immune system has been seriously harmed.

The signs of manifestation are also different, if in the first case the skin usually suffers, then here the damage is directed to the joints and nails of a person.

Symptoms of psoriasis

Since this is a serious disease, it is important to know how to detect skin psoriasis at an early stage. It all starts with inflammation of the skin.

At this stage, the patient experiences severe burning and itching in problem areas, and over time, peeling begins there. This happens due to the rapid death of the skin, after which wounds can form in the same place.

Type 1 psoriasis usually manifests itself in areas with hairline. It can be arms, legs or head. Just the latter option is observed in most cases. One out of four patients has a slightly different direction - nails. This is the second type of psoriasis.

In patients, exacerbation is observed with certain features - the season. So already after the first appearance of psoriasis, it can be assumed that the next relapse will be in the same season. Usually it is summer or winter. The third option - without belonging to the season, less than half of such patients.

Psoriasis inflammation sites are initially small, but grow over time. A huge problem in the course of the disease is itching, which haunts the patient throughout the course of the disease. The fact is that it is forbidden to scratch problem areas of the skin so that open wounds do not form.

Treatment of psoriasis

Now we will analyze how best to treat psoriasis on the skin. If you didn’t delay going to the dermatologist, then you might be able to get off more or less easily.

If the diagnosis was made at the initial stage, it is likely that simple preventive measures and drugs will be enough. On the other hand, an advanced disease requires difficult treatment and a long period of time.

In the second case, you may need cryotherapy, in which problem areas are treated with liquid nitrogen. It freezes them and stops the development of the disease. In addition, doctors practice blood purification, which is aimed at removing the virus and improving the immune system.

It is important to understand that fast and effective treatment of psoriasis is possible only with timely detection. Otherwise, it can take a very long time, and the process will use both drugs in the form of tablets, and external treatment with drugs that will treat the symptoms.

Photo of skin psoriasis

Psoriasis- a chronic non-communicable disease that mainly affects the skin. Usually, psoriasis causes the formation of excessively dry, red, raised patches above the surface of the skin. However, some people with psoriasis do not have any visible skin lesions.

The patches caused by psoriasis are called psoriatic plaques. These spots are by nature sites of chronic inflammation and excessive proliferation of lymphocytes, macrophages and keratinocytes of the skin, as well as excessive angiogenesis (formation of new small capillaries) in the underlying skin layer. Excessive proliferation of keratinocytes in psoriatic plaques and infiltration of the skin by lymphocytes and macrophages quickly leads to thickening of the skin at the lesions, its elevation above the surface of healthy skin and the formation of characteristic pale, gray or silvery spots resembling hardened wax or paraffin ("paraffin lakes").

Psoriatic plaques most often first appear on places subject to friction and pressure - the surfaces of the elbow and knee folds, on the buttocks. However, psoriatic plaques can occur and be located anywhere on the skin, including the scalp, palmar surface of the hands, soles of the feet, and external genitalia. In contrast to eczema lesions, which often affect the inner flexor surface of the knee and elbow joints, psoriatic plaques are more often located on the outer, extensor surface of the joints.

Psoriasis is a chronic disease, usually characterized by an undulating course, with periods of spontaneous or caused by certain therapeutic effects of remission or improvement and periods of spontaneous or provoked by adverse external influences (alcohol use, intercurrent infections,) relapses or exacerbations.

The severity of the disease can vary in different patients and even in the same patient during periods of remission and exacerbation in a very wide range, from small local lesions to complete coverage of the entire body with psoriatic plaques. Often there is a tendency to progression of the disease over time (especially in the absence of treatment), to worsening and more frequent exacerbations, an increase in the area of the lesion and the involvement of new skin areas. In some patients, there is a continuous course of the disease without spontaneous remissions, or even continuous progression. The nails on the hands and/or toes are often also affected (psoriatic onychodystrophy). Nail lesions may be isolated and occur in the absence of skin lesions. Psoriasis can also cause inflammation of the joints, the so-called psoriatic arthropathy or. Between 10% and 15% of patients with psoriasis also have psoriatic arthritis.

There are many different treatments for psoriasis, but due to the chronic, relapsing nature of the disease itself and the often observed tendency to progress over time, psoriasis is a difficult disease to treat. A complete cure is currently impossible (that is, psoriasis is incurable at the current level of development of medical science), but more or less long-term, more or less complete remissions (including life-long ones) are possible. However, there is always a risk of relapse.

Causes of psoriasis

Stress, depression;
Infection of the skin, in particular - viruses, bacteria (staphylococci, streptococci), fungus (Candida);
hereditary predisposition;
Metabolic disorders that affect the regeneration of skin cells;
Failure of the endocrine system (hormonal disorders)
Gastrointestinal diseases - enteritis, colitis, dysbacteriosis (dysbiosis);
allergies;
Liver diseases.

Learn more about the causes of psoriasis

Impaired barrier function of the skin (in particular, mechanical injury or irritation, friction and pressure on the skin, abuse of soap and detergents, contact with solvents, household chemicals, alcohol-containing solutions, the presence of infected foci on the skin or skin allergies, excessive dryness of the skin) also play a role. role in the development of psoriasis.

Psoriasis is largely idiosyncratic. The experience of most patients suggests that psoriasis can spontaneously improve or, conversely, worsen for no apparent reason. Studies of various factors associated with the onset, development or exacerbation of psoriasis tend to be based on the study of small, usually hospital (rather than outpatient), that is, obviously more severe, groups of patients with psoriasis. Therefore, these studies often suffer from under-representativeness of the sample and from the inability to identify causal relationships in the presence of a large number of other (including as yet unknown or unidentified) factors that can influence the course of psoriasis. Quite often, contradictory findings are found in different studies. However, the first signs of psoriasis often appear after suffering (physical or mental), skin damage at the site of the first appearance of psoriatic rashes, and / or a previous streptococcal infection. Conditions that may exacerbate or worsen psoriasis, according to a number of sources, include acute and chronic infections, stress, climate change, and changing seasons. Some medications, such as lithium carbonate, beta-blockers, the antidepressants fluoxetine, paroxetine, the antimalarial drugs chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, the anticonvulsants carbamazepine, and valproate, have been associated with a worsening of psoriasis or may even trigger its initial onset, according to a number of sources. , smoking, overweight or malnutrition can aggravate the course of psoriasis or make it difficult to treat, provoke exacerbations. Hairspray, some hand creams and lotions, cosmetics and perfumes, household chemicals can also provoke an exacerbation of psoriasis in some patients.

Bath for psoriasis. Baths with a decoction of horsetail, celandine and calendula cleanse the skin from psoriatic plaques.

Collection from psoriasis 1. Grind and mix 100 g of burdock root and tricolor violet herb, 50 g of nettle leaves, elder flowers and knicus grass (kardobenedikt, curly thistle), and then 1 tsp. mixture pour 0.5 liters of boiling water, leave for 30 minutes, strain and drink 200 ml 2-3 times a day between meals.

Collection 2. Mix 200 g of crushed roots and 300 g of burdock and nettle, pour 1 tbsp. mixture of 0.5 liters of water, bring to a boil and boil for 5 minutes. Infuse for an hour and drink 100 ml 3 times a day one hour before meals.

Collection 3. Preliminarily grind, and then mix 300 g of elder flowers and young currant leaves, 200 g of tricolor violet, linden flowers, young walnut leaves, grass cudweed and field horsetail and 100 g of celandine. Pour 2 tbsp. mixture of 0.5 liters of boiling water, leave for 2-3 hours and drink 2/3 cup 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals.

Collection 4. Mix in crushed form 50 g of wheatgrass root, 40 g of chicory, 30 g of walnut leaves, black poplar buds and oregano grass, 25 g of lavender and bedstraw grass, 15 g of cumin seeds and corn stigmas, then 1 tbsp. pour 200 ml of boiling water over the mixture, bring to a boil and boil for 5 minutes. Remove from the stove, leave for 30 minutes and drink 50-100 ml 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals. The course of treatment is 2 years.

Collection 5. Grind and mix 15 g of herb string and calamus root, 10 g of black elderberry flowers, root, corn stigmas, lingonberry leaves and horsetail grass, 5 g of celandine herb, and then 2 tbsp. mixture pour 0.5 liters of boiling water and simmer for 30 minutes in the oven. Cool, strain and drink 100 ml 2 times a day until you drink the whole broth. Repeat after 2 weeks.

Collection 6. In parallel with the main treatment, take an infusion that improves metabolism. Grind and mix 1.5 tbsp. soapwort root and 1 tbsp. burdock root, pour 600 ml of boiling water and boil for 10 minutes in a water bath. After 40 minutes, strain and drink everything throughout the day.

The mud of Lake Sivash copes very well with psoriasis. Now it can be purchased at the pharmacy. Mud, heated to a temperature of 37-39 ° C, is applied in the evening before going to bed in a uniform layer of 1-2 mm on the areas of the body affected by psoriasis, and then, after about 30 minutes, it is washed off with warm water. After that, painful areas are recommended to be treated with brine (strong saline). Now wait until the body is completely dry, shake off the salt formed on it and go to bed. In the morning, it is advisable to apply any moisturizing cream for daily skin care to the psoriatic areas. Procedures are carried out every other day. The course of treatment is 15-20 procedures.

Mud can be used both in the chronic course of the disease, and during its exacerbation. But in case of exacerbation, before applying the mud, you need to warm up under the sun for 3-5 minutes. This will remove the aggravation, and mud therapy will be more effective.

In addition, many people treat psoriasis in Israel, at the Dead Sea.

Cleanse the body of psoriatic plaques with mud, but remember that not only mud heals: for any disease, in order for the treatment to be successful, inner repentance, awareness and begging for one's sins are necessary.

Where to go for the treatment of psoriasis

Video

Psoriasis can have different symptoms. There are a number of specific features that distinguish it from other diseases. Sometimes it is necessary to carry out differential diagnosis with other dermatoses.

The rationality of the selected therapy depends on the correct interpretation of the clinical picture. Therefore, it is important to know how psoriasis manifests itself.

Basic stat

The disease belongs to the category of dermatoses. The epidermis is predominantly involved in the pathological process. The first symptoms of psoriasis always appear as characteristic rashes.

They are represented by papules (plaques). These are pathological elements that develop inside the superficial layers of the skin. They have a whole range of features:

Red or pink rashes. This is due to the rather strong vascularization of the affected areas of the body.
Size up to 3-4 cm. It can vary significantly.
Border clarity. Pathological elements are often rounded, sometimes drop-shaped.
Merging trend. In the absence of adequate treatment, rashes on the epidermis can connect with each other, creating entire "paraffin lakes" or "islands".
Elevation 1-3 mm above the skin surface.
concentric growth.
A cover of silvery scales. Almost all plaques contain these elements.

Psoriasis in humans occurs with the onset of a rash, which almost always has all of these properties. Sometimes there may be minor nuances that characterize a specific form of the disease.

With timely access to a doctor, you can stop the progression of psoriasis, the symptoms of which have begun to develop actively. The main thing is to choose the right treatment. Typical plaques are the main symptom of a particular dermatosis.

Thanks to him, the diagnosis of pathology is rarely too difficult for the doctor.

The classic triad of symptoms

The disease is not too common among the world's population. According to statistics, from 2 to 5% of the world's population suffer from it. However, this number is growing every year. Therefore, it is important to be able to diagnose pathology in time, and then start fighting it.

Some people don't even know what psoriasis looks like. In the presence of a characteristic rash, its treatment can be reduced to the use of folk remedies, which does not give a tangible result. However, time is wasted.

There is a special triad of symptoms that is characteristic only for this dermatosis. When it is detected, the diagnosis is made very simply. These signs include:

The phenomenon of "stearin stain". After removing the outer scales, a peculiar stain appears under them, which resembles paraffin. It is formed due to the accumulation of air in a particular area, a change in lipid synthesis.
The "terminal film" phenomenon. With further scraping of the contents of the plaque, a shiny surface appears. It looks like polyethylene. It is the last element that can be removed from the skin.
The phenomenon of "blood dew". With further combing of the plaques, multiple droplets of blood appear. They progress due to damage to the microvessels located in the affected area.

It is important to clarify that scraping should be done either with a blunt scalpel or with a glass slide. Do not scratch the plaques with your nails.

Factors that trigger symptoms

The first signs of psoriasis do not occur by themselves. It is important to understand that everything has a reason. However, it is not always known to doctors. At the moment, it is not exactly established why a particular ailment develops. There are quite a few theories, but none of them is universal.

Symptoms of psoriasis appear after exposure to certain provoking factors. They are triggers of a pathological reaction, and the main ones remain:

Genetic predisposition. If one of the close relatives suffers from dermatosis, then the chance of passing it on to the next generation increases significantly.
Transferred infectious diseases of the skin. Psoriasis on the body develops due to a decrease in the protective forces of the epidermis. He becomes vulnerable to negative environmental factors.
Chronic stress. Nervous strain has a bad effect on the functional activity of almost any organ of the human body. The more such a load, the higher the chance of progression of dermatosis.
The use of certain medications. Signs of psoriasis can be a side effect of certain medications. Much depends on the individual characteristics of the patient's body.
Bad habits (alcohol, nicotine, drugs).
Irrational nutrition, bad ecology.

Symptoms of psoriasis may occur after exposure to these factors. The more of them affect a person at the same time, the higher the chance of manifestation of the disease. However, it is important to understand that not all people develop the disease.

There is a certain mechanism according to which a psoriatic rash develops. It includes several sequential reactions:

Autoimmune disorder with impaired normal function of T-lymphocytes.
Their migration to various layers of the skin.
Release of a large number of inflammatory mediators.
Reaction activation.
Additional infiltration of the skin with dendritic cells, macrophages, leukocytes.
Violation of the processes of cell division of the epidermis.
Proliferation of keratinocytes.
The appearance of a characteristic rash.

The causes of psoriasis and its mechanism of development are still being actively studied by doctors. Until now, disputes on this topic have not subsided.

Auxiliary manifestations in psoriasis

In addition to the typical rash, there are other signs of the disease. In most cases, they accompany plaques, but sometimes they may be absent. They help to more accurately navigate the diagnosis, prescribe the correct treatment for the patient.

The most common symptoms of psoriasis are:

Peeling of pathological elements.
Excessive dryness of the skin.
General malaise.

Each of the symptoms has its own characteristics. It may not occur in every patient, however, you need to remember about possible ways to eliminate it. Below is a brief description of each feature.

Itching

Psoriasis on the skin is accompanied by this symptom in about half of all patients suffering from a particular dermatosis. It refers to non-specific manifestations, since it has a common nature with other dermatological diseases.

Its development is associated with the release of inflammatory mediators (mainly histamine). These biologically active substances irritate microscopic nerve endings, change the features of local microcirculation.

Against the background of such reactions, a person may feel an unpleasant symptom. It does not always accompany the disease. There are situations when typical plaques do not cause any discomfort to the patient at all, except for a visual defect.

Much depends on the sensitivity of receptors to histamine and its amount in tissues. To successfully combat a specific manifestation of psoriasis, antihistamines, as well as other antiallergic drugs, are used.

Good results are demonstrated by anti-inflammatory and sedative medications. Itching may appear even before the formation of typical plaques. Nevertheless, it is almost impossible to establish a correct diagnosis due to the marriage of auxiliary symptoms.

Peeling

Almost all pathological elements in psoriasis are covered with silvery scales. They are dead keratinocytes. They accumulate on the surface of the skin, and then are rejected.

Appearing once, plaques will accompany the patient until the end of his life. However, peeling is an optional symptom. It largely depends on the correct selection of special therapy, the patient's implementation of the doctor's recommendations.

Only growth zones of pathological elements do not peel off. They are characteristic of young plaques that begin to spread to healthy areas of the skin.

Excessive dryness of the body

Dryness of the epidermis is due to several changes in its functioning against the background of the disease, which are:

Microcirculation disorders.
Pathology of metabolism, endocrine disorders.
Excessive reproduction (proliferation) of keratinocytes.
genetic predisposition.
Individual features of the skin.

Dryness of the epidermis leads to the formation of cracks, microtraumas. They are the entrance gate for various infections. If the patient has such miniature wounds, it is necessary to use healing agents.

They will prevent bacterial invasion with the progression of the following additional symptoms:

Pain.
Edema.
Redness.
Local rise in temperature.

In this case, to combat psoriasis, you will have to additionally use antibacterial agents.

General malaise

General malaise is a very non-specific sign of psoriasis. They are inherent in almost any disease. May progress at different ages. It all depends on the individual characteristics of the patient's body.

In psoriasis, it reflects the overall reaction of the body to the developing problem. To eliminate it, it is necessary to deal with the main manifestations of pathology.

Auxiliary signs of psoriasis, mentioned above, will help you choose the right therapy and improve the well-being of a sick person. The main thing is to see a doctor in time. Self-medication can be a factor in aggravating the patient's condition.

Depending on the clinical picture, the doctor's decision on how to treat a particular patient may depend. Each organism is individual. The choice of therapy should be appropriate.

Staging of symptoms of psoriasis

Psoriasis in adults develops almost always according to the same pattern. Its activity may differ, but the phasing does not. This fact sometimes makes it possible to distinguish the disease from other dermatoses (pseudopsoriasis, various lichen, etc.).

There are three main stages in the development of symptoms:

Progressive.
Stationary.
Regressive.

All of them have their own characteristics and a certain nature of the flow. Depending on what stage the patient is in, the approach to his treatment by the doctor may differ. The basic nuances of each of the phases will be considered below.

Progressive stage

The manifestation of psoriasis at this stage is not too pronounced. It is of a beginner nature. It often manifests after severe stress or an illness. The features of this phase of the disease are:

Constant appearance of new papules.
Active growth of old elements, if present. They tend to merge. They often form "paraffin lakes" or "islands".
Positive Koebner's sign. There is an active formation of rashes on healthy skin after its mechanical damage.
Peeling. Plaques are covered with scales, which are constantly rejected.
Presence of the classic triad of symptoms.

Many patients are interested in the age at which the first signs of the disease appear. More often it manifests in people under 20 years of age (approximately 65%). However, there are cases of onset of the disease in adulthood and older age. Sometimes children suffer even before school.

Stationary stage

The plateau phase is coming. The plaques stop growing. There is a kind of stabilization of the patient's condition. It can be triggered by the right treatment or the natural course of the disease. The features of this period are:

New plaques do not appear.
Old pathological elements stop growing and merging.
Koebner's sign is negative.
Itching, as well as peeling, almost completely disappears.
Perhaps the formation of a pseudo-atrophic Voronov rim. A characteristic shiny ring appears around the plaques. It indicates the beginning of the regression of a particular papule.
The classic triad of symptoms persists.

The duration of the plateau phase and its further progress or regression depend on the correctness of the chosen therapy.

Regressive stage

The last phase of the onset of psoriasis symptoms. It marks the end of a certain exacerbation of the disease. Its onset does not mean a cure for the disease. At the moment, it is impossible to completely get rid of it. Realistically only to achieve long-term remission.

At this stage, all the symptoms of psoriasis subside. The skin is gradually cleared of plaques. Visually, they can become completely invisible. A person does not experience any discomfort and can return to a normal lifestyle.

Psoriasis of different localization

The symptoms of this dermatosis are almost always the same. The main target of pathology remains the skin. However, it is known that it differs in different parts of the body. There are some features of the clinical picture.

They depend on the localization of the process and its activity. Below will be considered the nuances of the symptoms of psoriasis in the defeat of different parts of the patient's body.

Arms and legs

The most common localization of the pathological process, especially in the early stages, remains the extensor surface of the elbows and knees. Typical plaques here develop according to the standard scheme described a little above.

First, individual papules are formed, covered with scales, and then they merge, creating large conglomerates. In the atypical form of psoriasis, skin elements are found on the flexed surfaces of the joints.

It remains characteristic that plaques with such localization often turn red due to constant contact with clothing. This can sometimes be used for the differential diagnosis of dermatosis with other diseases.

Face and neck

In the area of the face and neck, papules are smaller with clear edges. They retain all the typical features, but are limited. They predominantly occur:

Around eyes .
In the area of the eyebrows.
In the area of the nasolabial folds.
On the earlobes.

Such localization gives the patient a lot of discomfort due to a visual defect.

Hairy part of the head

A psoriatic "crown" is formed at the transition point of the forehead to the hair. The rash is located here, forming a special rim, which received a characteristic name. In parallel, dandruff progresses.

Psoriasis develops according to the type of seborrhea with impaired functioning of the sebaceous glands. Progressive dryness of the scalp.

Body and back

Psoriasis on the body occurs when the pathological process is generalized. Plaques practically do not differ in any serious features. Often merge into large conglomerates that constantly itch and flake off.

Pathological elements occur mainly on the back. The abdomen is less commonly affected. Sometimes the plaques may look like purple drops, forming large areas of reddish color.

Palms and soles

Such localization is predominantly characteristic of a limited form of psoriasis. There is a thickening of the layers of the epidermis. Cracks appear on the background of dry skin. Often associated with a fungal or bacterial infection.

Nails

Psoriasis as a pathology with retraction of the nails into the process is characterized by a change in the plate. Formed psoriatic onychodystrophy. It is accompanied by the following symptoms:

Thickening or thinning of the nail plate.
The appearance of transverse or longitudinal lines on its surface.
Change in color and texture of the nail.

The plate may crumble. Symptoms of psoriasis of similar localization are easily confused with a fungal infection. Onycholysis remains the worst case scenario. It is accompanied by detachment of the nail.

Pseudopsoriasis

Pseudopsoriasis is another dermatosis that visually resembles a traditional disease. It is also accompanied by auxiliary symptoms (itching, peeling, general deterioration of a person's well-being, dry skin).

Pathology, like psoriasis, remains poorly understood. The two diseases can be distinguished by the absence of the traditional triad of symptoms in pseudopsoriasis. It is characterized by the "cache phenomenon".

With careful removal of scales from the surface of the papule, they are separated in a completely single layer. The treatment of a particular disease also differs. It is based on the use of the following groups of medicines:

Broad spectrum antibiotics.
antimalarial drugs.
desensitizing agents.
Vasoprotectors.

The question of a complete cure for pseudopsoriasis remains open. He is transferred to the stage of remission and preventive medications are used to consolidate the result. In any case, therapy should be carried out by a specialist.

Treatment of psoriasis

The study of psoriasis, its symptoms and treatment in adults should be done by a qualified doctor. Now there are several basic approaches to the treatment of the disease:

Local wellness.
Systemic treatment.
Physiotherapeutic and instrumental methods of therapy.

Sometimes the use of traditional medicine is allowed, but it should be limited. An unconventional approach to recovery may not have the desired effect, and in the absence of basic medicines, this will lead to a deterioration in the patient's condition.

Local treatment of psoriasis

Local therapy is based on the use of topical agents. They allow you to act only on the affected areas. Effective in the early stages of the progression of the disease. To achieve the goal, the following groups of medicines are most often used:

Topical corticosteroids (Elokom, Akriderm, Lokoid).
Vitamin D-based products (Calcipotriol).
Keratolytics (salicylic ointment).
Preparations of zinc, sulfur.

To combat common forms of psoriasis, local therapy is less suitable. This is due to the need to apply medicines to very large areas of the body, which is not always convenient.

Systemic therapy for psoriasis

Medications that affect the entire body of the patient are used:

Cytostatics.
Immunosuppressants.
Reninoids.

They block cell division and help reduce the number of plaques.

Phototherapy remains the most promising among physiotherapeutic procedures. With the help of ultraviolet irradiation, it is possible to block the proliferation of keratinocytes. Due to this, the skin is cleansed.

Psoriasis is a serious disease. When the first symptoms appear, you should immediately consult a doctor for help. Timely initiation of treatment helps to prevent the progression of the disease.