So you think you have Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a serious skin condition which can affect anyone, of any age. Depending on the type of psoriasis, you may have what appears to a rash or perhaps a raised area of dry skin which is feeling itchy and sore? If you think that you may have Psoriasis then you should consult your doctor as soon as possible to confirm your suspicions, and make sure that you receive appropriate treatment. Some forms of severe psoriasis can be chronic and require hospitalization.

Short Term Relief

If you suspect that you may have psoriasis but are unable to get to a doctors immediately there are a few things you could try to alleviate the discomfort. There are many remedies available over the counter, such as emollient creams – which work by moisturising the skin, so remedying the tightness caused by dry, cracked skin. At this stage, it is best to stick to simple moisturising creams, perhaps containing herbal remedies, rather than a medicated cream –as you are not yet sure exactly what sort of skin condition you are dealing with.

Psoriasis Triggers

If it does turn out to be psoriasis, then it is likely that something will have triggered this flare up. Triggers could include things which you have eaten, products you have used on your skin or that could have come into contact with it – such as washing powders and detergents. Sometimes an existing illness could trigger a psoriasis outbreak, so make note if you have a sore throat or any other symptoms, as it would be wise to report these to your doctor.

If it does turn out that you have psoriasis it is important to recognise these triggers so you can avoid them and hopefully avoid future outbreaks.

If it’s Not Psoriasis. . .

If you visit the doctor and it turns out that your skin complaint isn’t psoriasis then you should be given the appropriate treatment and advice. If you have identified other symptoms, or possible triggers to the condition, it would be worth mentioning these in case they are relevant. Your doctor should be able to let you know if your potential triggers could have caused the outbreak. You will then know if you need to avoid these in future.

If it is Psoriasis . . .

If you are diagnosed as having psoriasis then you should be told which kind of psoriasis you have, and what to expect. It’s likely that you will also be prescribed a medicated treatment to help clear up your current flare up. Ask your doctor if any of the potential triggers you identified, or other symptoms may be relevant. If so, you will know what to avoid and what the signs are when you are likely to suffer a flare up. If you aren’t keen on chemicals, then there are a range of over the counter and natural

Psoriasis is a disease which can greatly impact on the wellbeing of sufferers. Not only does it bring discomfort and pain, but the physical appearance of the disease on the skin makes many sufferers self conscious and can lead to stress and anxiety.

If you are diagnosed with Psoriasis then why not check out some of the resources and chat rooms available for psoriasis sufferers? There you can talk to people in the same boat, ask questions and learn all about what to expect and how to cope. Who knows, you may even make some new friends.