How to Deal with Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a non-contagious autoimmune disorder that affects almost 3 percent of the world's population. Sometimes the most difficult aspect for a psoriasis sufferer is the disfiguring skin eruptions that characterize the disorder. That, along with the itching and pain, can make life incredibly difficult during a flare-up. Here are some tips that have helped me live with this condition.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Do everything possible to avoid scratching. There are several oatmeal-based soaps and lotions on the market or make your own oatmeal powder by grinding regular oatmeal in a food processor or blender. Mix with warm water and apply as a plaster. Wash it off when dry, and moisturize. You can also add the oatmeal powder to a warm bath and soak in it.
2. Creams, body washes and shampoos that contain salicylate can be very effective in reducing the inflammation and the itching. Some preparations contain coal tar, including some prescription creams and shampoos. Try them if you like, but many patients find that coal tar makes their psoriasis worse.
3. Saltwater baths, either with sea salt or Epsom salts can help. A gentle scrub with handfuls of the salt can also help to reduce the scaling without further irritating the skin. Finish by thoroughly moisturizing your skin.
4. Some people find that regular doses of sunlight are helpful in clearing their skin. Make sure that you aren't taking any medications that make you sun sensitive. Also, use a sunscreen the rest of the time you are outdoors.
5. If your doctor wants to go to light treatments or more heavy duty medications, give it a try. Methotrexate has very few side effects. There is also a new class of injectables called "biologics" that are incredibly effective for some people.
6. Keep your skin moisturized constantly. It will help control your symptoms and minimize the appearance of the plaques. Wear what is comfortable for you. If you want to wear lightweight long-sleeved cotton in the summer, do it. People in Africa and the Mideast have been doing that for summer survival for centuries.
7. Explain psoriasis to other people if the circumstances are appropriate. Your words can make it easier for all of us. And take every opportunity to educate yourself.

Tips & Warnings

• Stress can make you flare, even weather stress. Hot desert summers make me flare, but many people have the same problem with dry, cold winters.
• Look for online discussion groups with other psoriasis sufferers. You are not alone.
• Don't pick at the plaques or scales. Psoriasis scaling is created by an overgrowth of skin cells, and the blood supply moves closer to the surface to supply them. If you scratch, you will bleed, and you will open yourself up to infections.