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How to Manage Psoriasis

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By drussel1
User-Submitted Article
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Psoriasis is a disease of the immune system and is categorized by red,inflamed skin with scaly white patches. It causes itching, embarrassment and more. It can appear anywhere on the body,but is commonly found on the elbows, legs, and lower back. Learning what you can do to control psoriasis is your best bet in living with it. There is no magic drug that can take the psoriasis away.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Psoriasis is basically skin cells that regenerate too fast. Your body has no way to get rid of them as fast as they are multiplying. There are many things that can happen as a result of living with psoriasis that many people wouldn't think of. The psoriasis may show up in different areas of the body, and with severe psoriasis, the psoriasis may cover large portions of the body. Some people develop psoriasis under their nails, causing their nails to come apart at the nail bed and fall off. Others may develop psoratic arthritis where arthritis shows up at the joints of psoratic outbreak locations. But, you can beat psoriasis and its nasty effects.

  2. Step 2

    Your dermatologist will likely prescribe you a psoriasis ointment. They may prescribe triamcinolone or Embrel for example. Use as directed. It generally has the consistency of vasseline, but it will help. The treatment for psoriasis may vary by dermatologist, and there is no magic cure. Managing psoriasis symptoms is key.

  3. Step 3

    You might be asking yourself, "How can I manage psoriasis?" Well, its easy. Be sure to use your ointments and medications as directed. Get yourself out into the sunlight when you can, and in the winter, tan every couple of weeks in a tanning bed. The UVB in sunlight helps keep the psoriasis at bay. Make sure your fingernails get the sunlight too!

  4. Step 4

    Do your best not to pick at or scratch your psoriasis, even though its really itchy! Be sure to check in with your dermatologist regularly and note any changes. In the meantime, you can cover mild psoriasis patches with clothing or bandaids until your medication takes effect. Be sure to ask your doctor before starting any medication regimen. Psoriasis and Eczema can be relatively similar in appearance in some cases, but are treated differently.

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on 11/27/2009 Never heard of this, but it sounds awful. Thank you for the awareness.

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eHow Article: How to Manage Psoriasis

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