The truth about Psoriasis

Introduction

Psoriasis is a chronic, non-contagious autoimmune disease that primarily affects the skin, resulting in the rapid buildup of skin cells. This abnormality leads to the appearance of scaling, resulting in inflammation, and redness. The disease can also affect the joints, known as psoriatic arthritis, and has no known cure, although treatments exist to manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups. While it is not life-threatening, psoriasis can significantly impact the quality of life for those affected. In this research article, we want to find the truth about psoriasis.

Causes of Psoriasis

Psoriasis results from a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors. An overactive immune system characterizes psoriasis, where T-cells, a type of white blood cell that typically fights infections, mistakenly attack healthy skin cells. This leads to the rapid production of new skin cells that accumulate on the surface of the skin, forming the characteristic plaques seen in psoriasis (1)(2).

Genetics play a major role in the development of psoriasis. Studies have shown that about 10% of the population may carry one or more of the genes associated with psoriasis, but only 2-3% actually develop the disease, indicating that environmental factors such as infections, stress, or skin injuries also trigger the disease (3)(4). Infections like strep throat are particularly associated with the onset of guttate psoriasis (drop-like lesions on the upper trunk and proximal extremities), especially in children and adolescents (4).

Factors that Exacerbate Psoriasis

There are several factors can worsen psoriasis and/or trigger flare-ups. These include:

1. Stress: Psychological stress is strongly linked to the onset and worsening of psoriasis. Stress triggers the release of immune-modulating hormones like cortisol, which can exacerbate inflammatory processes, worsening symptoms (2).
2. Infections: Upper respiratory infections like strep throat can trigger psoriasis or worsen existing symptoms (1)(4). These infections prompt an immune response that may further dysregulate the already malfunctioning immune system in psoriasis patients.
3. Weather Conditions: Cold, dry weather can dehydrate the skin and make psoriasis symptoms worse. Conversely, sunny, warm climates, which promote moisture and allow for more sun exposure, may help reduce flare-ups as UV exposure helps slow the growth of skin cells (5).
4. Medications: Certain medications, such as beta-blockers (used to treat high blood pressure), lithium (used for bipolar disorder), and antimalarials, can worsen psoriasis (2)(6).
5. Alcohol and Smoking: Both smoking and alcohol consumption have been identified as risk factors for more severe forms of psoriasis. Alcohol weakens the immune system, and smoking has been linked to an increased risk of developing psoriasis, particularly palmoplantar psoriasis, which affects the hands and feet (1)(3).

Treatment Options

The truth is that there is no cure for psoriasis. However, numerous treatments exist to manage the condition. The choice of treatment often depends on the severity of the disease, the impact on the individual’s quality of life, and their overall health.

1. Topical Treatments: These are the first line of defense for mild to moderate psoriasis. Corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, and topical retinoids are commonly used to reduce inflammation, slow the rapid growth of skin cells, and remove scales (2)(5). Other topical agents include coal tar, salicylic acid, and calcineurin inhibitors, which help reduce inflammation.
2. Phototherapy: Phototherapy involves the use of ultraviolet (UV) light to slow the growth of affected skin cells. Treatments available for more severe cases of psoriasis include Narrowband UVB therapy and PUVA (psoralen plus ultraviolet A (7). Exposure to natural sunlight may also help improve symptoms in some individuals.
3. Systemic Treatments: For moderate to severe psoriasis, systemic treatments are often prescribed. These medications affect the entire body and include oral or injected drugs like methotrexate, cyclosporine, and biologics. Biologics are specifically designed to target certain parts of the immune system involved in psoriasis and are becoming increasingly popular due to their efficacy (6). Some examples of biologics include tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors, interleukin (IL) inhibitors, and T-cell inhibitors.
4. Biologics and Emerging Therapies: The advent of biologics has revolutionized the treatment of psoriasis. These medications, which include IL-17, IL-12/23, and IL-23 inhibitors, target specific immune responses implicated in psoriasis (8)(9). Research is ongoing in the development of new treatments, including JAK inhibitors and other small-molecule therapies, which offer promise for individuals who do not respond to conventional treatments (10).

Lifestyle Factors and Psoriasis

Like with most things in life, lifestyle plays a significant role in managing psoriasis. The truth is that healthy habits can improve the overall severity and frequency of flare-ups of psoriasis.

1. Diet: Some studies suggest that an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation associated with psoriasis. The Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes fish, olive oil, and whole grains, has been associated with reduced severity of the disease (3)(7).
2. Weight Management: Obesity is a well-known risk factor for psoriasis. People with a higher body mass index (BMI) tend to experience more severe symptoms. Weight loss can reduce systemic inflammation, improve the efficacy of treatments, and decrease the risk of comorbid conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, which is common in psoriasis patients (6).
3. Exercise: Regular exercise, coupled with stress management techniques such as yoga or meditation, can help reduce the frequency and severity of psoriasis flare-ups by reducing inflammation and improving mental health (3).
4. Smoking and Alcohol Cessation: As previously mentioned, smoking and alcohol consumption can worsen psoriasis. Quitting these habits can lead to significant improvements in symptom severity and overall health (2)(4).

Natural Remedies for Psoriasis

Some patients turn to natural remedies to complement conventional treatments. While natural remedies may not replace medical therapies, they can provide relief from symptoms. Medical therapies sometimes have risks of their own, like how the prolonged use of corticosteroids can lead to even worse skin conditions when stopped. The truth about any treatment option for psoriasis, whether medical or natural, should be evaluated and researched before using. Natural treatment options can usually be used for prolonged periods without any side effects and can be a more affordable option. Depending on the severity of the condition, current medical treatments should never me stopped without proper consultation.

1. Aloe Vera: Aloe vera gel is often used to soothe irritated skin and may help reduce redness and scaling in psoriasis plaques. Research indicates that topical aloe vera can improve skin hydration and help with symptom management (5).
2. Apple Cider Vinegar: Some people with scalp psoriasis use diluted apple cider vinegar as a remedy for itching. Its antiseptic properties may help prevent infections in cracked skin (7).
3. Dead Sea Salts: Bathing in water infused with Dead Sea salts has been reported to help reduce scaling and improve skin hydration (6). Experts often recommend this remedy as part of balneotherapy (therapeutic bathing) for psoriasis.
4. Turmeric: Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties. Studies suggest that taking oral turmeric supplements or applying it topically may help alleviate psoriasis symptoms (9).
5. Tea Tree Oil: Used as a natural antiseptic, tea tree oil may help reduce inflammation and prevent infections in psoriasis plaques. Its effectiveness varies, so use it with caution to avoid skin irritation (4).
6. Shea Butter: Shea butter may help moisturize dry skin. It can also help repair the skin barrier and reduce inflammation (11)
7. Urea: Used to remove dead tissue in wounds, it is a keratolytic, and increases moisture by holding the healthy skin together while removing the dead skin cells (12).

Psoriasis Demographics: Who is Affected the Most?

Psoriasis can affect individuals of all ages, genders, and ethnicities, but it tends to manifest most commonly between the ages of 15 and 35 (5). Certain populations, however, are more vulnerable to the disease.

1. Genetics and Family History: Individuals with a family history of psoriasis are more likely to develop the condition. If one parent has psoriasis, the child has a 10% chance of developing it; if both parents have it, the likelihood increases to 50% (3)(5).
2. Ethnicity: Psoriasis tends to be more common in individuals of European descent and less common among people of African, Asian, or Indigenous American descent. However, studies indicate that severity can be higher in non-European populations, particularly among African Americans (4).
3. Gender: Psoriasis affects men and women at nearly equal rates. However, some studies suggest that women might experience milder symptoms compared to men, though they may report a greater impact on their quality of life (5).
4. Age: While psoriasis can appear at any age, it often first develops in young adults. Pediatric psoriasis is relatively rare but can be more challenging to treat due to its impact on physical and emotional development (2)(8).

Conclusion

Psoriasis is a complex autoimmune disease with significant physical and psychological effects. The exact cause of psoriasis is not yet fully understood, but it is clear that the combination of genetics and environmental factors contributes to its onset and progression. Treatments for psoriasis range from topical therapies to advanced biologics, with emerging therapies showing promise. Natural remedies can alleviate symptoms, helping the management of psoriasis and increasing the quality of life. Lifestyle changes, such as managing stress, maintaining a healthy diet, and quitting smoking, can improve symptom severity and help to prevent flare-ups. By understanding the causes, exacerbating factors, and available treatments, individuals can better manage psoriasis and improve their quality of life.

The truth about psoriasis that we have discovered in this research paper, is that although there is no cure yet, psoriasis can be managed.

How we can help

Our Eczema Skin Restoring Jelly are made with natural ingredients that have been shown to help alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis. It cannot cure it, as there is no cure, but the combination of ingredients assist the skin to become strong, stay moisturized and relieve those symptoms that severely impacts the quality of life, like itching and red, inflamed skin.

References

1. Mayo Clinic. Psoriasis Symptoms and Causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355840
2. NIAMS. Health Topics: Psoriasis. https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/psoriasis
3. NHS. Psoriasis Overview. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/psoriasis/
4. Psoriasis.org. About Psoriasis. https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis/
5. Wikipedia. Psoriasis. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psoriasis
6. NCBI. Psoriasis and Systemic Treatments. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8140694/
7. Science Daily. Psoriasis Research News. https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/health_medicine/psoriasis/
8. MDPI. Emerging Therapies in Psoriasis. https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9032/11/13/1849
9. UCSF Clinical Trials. Psoriasis Studies. https://clinicaltrials.ucsf.edu/psoriasis
10. Labiotech. Advancements in Psoriasis Research. https://www.labiotech.eu/best-biotech/advancements-in-psoriasis-research/
11. Medical News Today. Shea Butter for Psoriasis https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/shea-butter-for-psoriasis
12. 12. WebMD. Urea Topical. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6047-829/urea-topical/urea-keratolytic-topical/details