5. People Usually Develop Psoriatic Arthritis in Their 30s, 40s and 50s
Around one third of people who have plaque psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis. Your likelihood of developing psoriatic arthritis is not related to the severity of your psoriasis, and the speed of onset following a psoriasis diagnosis is variable. It may first arise after trauma occurs to a joint.
Swelling, redness and joint tenderness are characteristic, and it is most pronounced in the joints of the fingers and toes. Eye irritation, nail problems and morning may be present. Early treatment can help to maintain mobility, reduce discomfort and protect the affected joints.
6. Psoriasis Is a Systemic Disease
Psoriasis is a type of autoimmune disorder. The skin cells of people who have plaque psoriasis multiply at an abnormally rapid rate — twice as fast as skin cells of people who do not have psoriasis. Cells within plaques reproduce one thousand more rapidly than healthy skin cells do, but the psoriasis affects all of the skin cells, not just the ones that form lesions.
7. Psoriasis Elevates Your Risk of Developing Nail Problems
A diagnosis of plaque psoriasis doubles a person’s risk for developing fingernail and toenail problems, including psoriasis nails. Almost four out of five people who have psoriatic arthritis develop nail problems. Nails may be rough and discolored and may separate from the nailbed.
8. Drinking Plenty of Water Can Help Ease Symptoms
The skin is the largest organ of the body, and one of its primary functions is to rid the body of toxins. Drinking plenty of water helps to flush irritation compounds out of the body. Additionally, well-hydrated skin is less likely to crack and cause discomfort.
9. Herbs May Help Reduce Psoriasis Symptoms
Herbs may be used to reduce inflammation, enhance detoxification, and fight secondary infections. While some internal herbal remedies provide rapid relief of psoriasis symptoms, most must be consistently used for at least two months in order to reach maximum effectiveness.
Burdock, dandelion root, kudzu and chickweed support detoxification. Herbs such as lemon balm, oat straw, passion flower and calendula are soothing. They can help to relieve irritability and itchiness.
Itch relief is important. If you scratch lesions, you may create small open areas which may develop infections. Scratching lesions encourages the release of chemical compounds called histamines, which make you itch even more.
10. Topical Remedies Can Provide Rapid Relief
Many topical remedies are available that relieve psoriatic symptoms. Pharmaceutical drugs may be prescribed and over-the-counter remedies like hydrocortisone cream offer itch relief. Herbal remedies like chickweed salve moisturize promote healing of irritated tissues, while essential oils of lemon balm, chamomile and lavender can also be helpful.
11. Diet Can Helps Control Symptoms
Many sufferers of psoriasis have food sensitivities and allergies. Identification and avoidance of irritating substance can therefore reduce psoriasis symptoms. Common offenders include the link between psoriasis and gluten, white sugar, dyes, preservatives and other food additives. Monosodium glutamate, MSG, is recognized by many skin care experts as particularly irritating for individuals who have psoriasis.
Read food labels carefully. Eat a simple diet. Include foods or supplements which are rich in omega 3 fatty acids in the diet.
