So you think you have Psoriasis?
If you have suddenly noticed itchy, raised areas of skin, or a small, blister-like rash, then a quick glance at a medical encyclopaedia may get you thinking that you could have psoriasis. Whilst this is possible, there are also a whole host of other skin complaints that could be producing that effect, so the best thing to do would be to visit your doctor at the earliest opportunity to find out for certain what it is.
Short Term Relief
As you do not yet know if what you have is psoriasis, then it is best to avoid anything medicated at this stage and stick to moisturisers or natural products to soothe the itching and stiffness. Emollient creams such as E45 which contain no perfumes or colourings are ideal as they should not aggravate the condition. Natural creams containing ingredients such as aloe vera or lavender are also soothing and again should not cause further irritation to the skin.
Your pharmacist could probably recommend several treatments which should help to ease the symptoms.
Psoriasis Triggers
Flare ups of psoriasis usually occur in response to a particular trigger. Triggers could include ill health and a depleted immune system, or perhaps something you have eaten or been in contact with, such as cleaning products or detergents. Make a note of any additional symptoms, or unusual foods which may have acted as a trigger. Make a note of these and discuss with your doctor as soon as you get an appointment.
If your psoriasis is confirmed then you will want to know what products to avoid to prevent future flare ups.
If it's not Psoriasis. . .
If the doctor decides that it isn't psoriasis then you will be informed of what it is, or the likely cause. It would be good to mention any additional symptoms or possible triggers as this could help with diagnosis and treatment.
If a diagnosis isn't conclusive, then you may want to consider some of the over the counter creams designed for psoriasis sufferers. Often these treatments will be designed to promote the health of the skin, so could benefit you regardless of the diagnosis.
If it is Psoriasis. . .
Then first of all, congratulations on a correct diagnosis. Your doctor will explain which type of psoriasis you have, and give advice on the best methods of treatment and prevention. If you are still suffering the flare up it is likely that the doctor will prescribe you a medicated cream to help clear it. Often these will contain coal tar or steroids - but the treatment can be discussed and agreed with your doctor. Alternatively there are a range of over the counter treatments which have been successful for some patients.
Psoriasis can be a stressful disease, especially where visible flare ups can affect a patient's confidence. Some sufferers become withdrawn and can feel uncomfortable going out with visible psoriasis. There are plenty of websites and forums for psoriasis sufferers where you can learn more about what to expect being a psoriasis sufferer, as well as learning about the various treatments and talking to other sufferers.
Short Term Relief
As you do not yet know if what you have is psoriasis, then it is best to avoid anything medicated at this stage and stick to moisturisers or natural products to soothe the itching and stiffness. Emollient creams such as E45 which contain no perfumes or colourings are ideal as they should not aggravate the condition. Natural creams containing ingredients such as aloe vera or lavender are also soothing and again should not cause further irritation to the skin.
Your pharmacist could probably recommend several treatments which should help to ease the symptoms.
Psoriasis Triggers
Flare ups of psoriasis usually occur in response to a particular trigger. Triggers could include ill health and a depleted immune system, or perhaps something you have eaten or been in contact with, such as cleaning products or detergents. Make a note of any additional symptoms, or unusual foods which may have acted as a trigger. Make a note of these and discuss with your doctor as soon as you get an appointment.
If your psoriasis is confirmed then you will want to know what products to avoid to prevent future flare ups.
If it's not Psoriasis. . .
If the doctor decides that it isn't psoriasis then you will be informed of what it is, or the likely cause. It would be good to mention any additional symptoms or possible triggers as this could help with diagnosis and treatment.
If a diagnosis isn't conclusive, then you may want to consider some of the over the counter creams designed for psoriasis sufferers. Often these treatments will be designed to promote the health of the skin, so could benefit you regardless of the diagnosis.
If it is Psoriasis. . .
Then first of all, congratulations on a correct diagnosis. Your doctor will explain which type of psoriasis you have, and give advice on the best methods of treatment and prevention. If you are still suffering the flare up it is likely that the doctor will prescribe you a medicated cream to help clear it. Often these will contain coal tar or steroids - but the treatment can be discussed and agreed with your doctor. Alternatively there are a range of over the counter treatments which have been successful for some patients.
Psoriasis can be a stressful disease, especially where visible flare ups can affect a patient's confidence. Some sufferers become withdrawn and can feel uncomfortable going out with visible psoriasis. There are plenty of websites and forums for psoriasis sufferers where you can learn more about what to expect being a psoriasis sufferer, as well as learning about the various treatments and talking to other sufferers.